More and more renters are living beyond their means, according to Harvard's Joint Center For Housing Studies.

Back in 1960 only 24 percent of Americans spend over the recommended 30 percent of their income on rent. By 2000 that number increased to 38 percent. By 2009 that number increased to 49 percent.

Another 26 percent of Americans are severely burdened with rent over half of income.

Real income hasn't increased in thirty years, while rents rise and utility costs have recently soared: