Evictions are rising to record-breaking levels across Washington state, overwhelming the legal aid system designed to protect low-income tenants. Despite pandemic-era protections and rental assistance programs, a mix of rising rents, stagnant wages, and shrinking federal aid is pushing more people toward housing instability. The state’s Right to Counsel program, once a national model, is now under immense strain as demand outpaces available resources. A newly passed rent stabilization law offers a measure of hope, but advocates warn it won’t be enough to stop the crisis from deepening.
Read: New Columbus Division to Hold Landlords Accountable, Curb Evictions
Evictions Reach Historic Highs Across the State
In early 2025, Washington recorded its highest-ever number of eviction filings for a single month. January saw a 66 percent increase in filings in King County compared to pre-pandemic levels. Statewide, filings surged 41 percent from 2023 to 2024, and the current fiscal year is on pace to surpass that. Rising rents, fewer affordable housing options, and the end of pandemic-era protections have all contributed to this escalation.
Also read: Arizona Starter Homes Bill ‘Likely to Fail’ as Cities Fight to Keep Zoning Power
Right to Counsel Program Reaches Breaking Point
Washington’s Right to Counsel program began in 2021 to provide free legal representation to low-income tenants facing eviction. Initially, the program was able to represent nearly every eligible tenant. But by early 2025, the program in King County had to begin triaging cases due to overwhelming demand. Priority is now given to households with children, disabilities, or language barriers…