The median rent in Chicago has risen faster than the other nine largest U.S. cities, with a record number of renters spending more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities. The increase in rent is attributed to the shortage of affordable housing and increased demand. Rental markets are tighter in the Midwest, Northeast, and West, due to zoning restrictions and a lack of space. Expecting a rise in rents as summer temperatures decrease and fewer people move during this period.