A greater percentage of Washington residents are falling behind on rent compared to the previous two years, according to a recent analysis by MyEListing.

The report showed 15% of Washington renters in 2022 are not up to date on their rent. That lines up with the national average of 15%, which has been unchanged since 2020.

As recently as 2020, Washington was among the best states in the U.S., with only 9% of renters behind on rent. That placed Washington sixth among all states, tied with Hawaii and Maine, for the smallest percentage of renters in arrears. 

Last year, Washington was at 10%. This year’s 15% leaves Washington tied for 19th among states for the highest percentage. The COVID housing boom that drove up home prices and rents over the last two years is one factor for the increase, along with rising inflation. 

The data shows 26% of South Dakota residents are behind on rent, the highest percentage in the nation. Idaho is on the opposite end of the spectrum at just 3%.