Forty-some years ago, reputable landlords were hesitant to rent their properties to unmarried couples.

This, of course, was back in the day, when even a half-blind person could tell which one of the two was male, and which one was female, but anyway...   This was a time when rents were reasonable - when a young married couple - both starting out, still in rather low paying jobs - could afford the rent, the car payment, groceries, and some walking-around/rainy day money.  Because the rents were reasonable, landlords had to think, before renting to just any old body; landlords have maintenance expenses to consider.  

Tenant turnover only adds to the overhead - even when neat-as-a-pin aunt martha moves out, her former landlord still has to hire people to come in and shampoo the carpet, clean (the already clean) countertops, wash the walls, inspect the electric and vents; this is why most landlords want tenants to sign a year's contract.  Not versed in the laws, but even back then, there were things which had to be done before re/renting out a unit.  

Anyway, been thinking about the ridiculous rents these days.  Four years ago, when my husband passed, had briefly considered moving, and getting a nice apartment.  Briefly.  When having browsed two or three communities, even the one-bedroom units were going for $900.  That was four years ago.  And a one-bedroom, is too small - need a room for sewing.  Needless to say, am staying put.  By the way, there was a place that really looked good - oh, the amenities - but they wanted $1,500 for that lovely hardwood floored unit.  But i digress.

One probable reason for the ridiculous rents, is likely that time-tested rule of landlords, back in the day.  When you sign a contract, you commit - well, the holder of the asset hopes the monthly payments will be made on time, and won't go buh-booiiinggg.  What i am getting at is: commitment.

About half of adults are not married.  When you live single, you have expenses, which marrieds can share.  Heating, is a big one.  Oh wait, sis and her husband are paying some serious ac bills - they live where it's hot for about half the year.  But, thank You, Lord, they're doing just fine - no stressing on mere electric statements.  Another expense singles have, more so than marrieds is gas.  Marrieds generally take one car when they go out for the evening; marrieds are more likely to bring a covered dish when visiting family and friends, while singles tend toward night$pots.  Marrieds generally spend less on repair costs - two can diy better than one.  Food is another item, marrieds generally eat healthier, while singles stop more often for takeout.

May not seem alot, but things add up before you know it.  And the next month is, but a week away.  Wow.