Today’s census story explores the hike in renting throughout the region.

The number of Erie County residents living in owner-occupied housing dropped about 7,000 from 2000 to 2010. Those living in rentals, though, grew by 7,827, an 11 percent increase, according to census data.

Area real estate agents and others interviewed attributed the demand for rentals to a variety of factors over the decade.

Many lost their homes because of foreclosure. With stricter lending criteria and reduced home values to borrow against, buying a property proved more difficult for potential homeowners.

Along with the economy, shifting demographics also played a role.

It’s important to note that the figures do not necessarily suggest a long-term shift to renting. The census numbers only provide a snapshot of housing occupancy every 10 years, and some local real estate agents suspect the recent downturn in the economy accounts for much of the change.

Statewide, housing data mirrored the local increase in renting. Pennsylvania, which gained total population, saw about a 13 percent jump in those living in rentals. Residents living in owner-occupied housing remained nearly unchanged.

To view 2010 census figures for your area, search the table below: