Fair Market Rent Survey

HUD RDD FMR Final Wave 2009 032210.pdf

Section 8 Random Digit Dialing Fair Marketing Rent Surveys

Fair Market Rent Survey

OMB: 2528-0142

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FAIR MARKET RENT
TELEPHONE SURVEYS
C-CHI-00851
Gulfport-Biloxi, MS
New Orleans, LA
Minot, ND (Non-Metropolitan)
Reno-Sparks, NV

SUBMITTED TO:
Department of Housing and Urban Development
Attn: Marie Lihn
Peter Kahn
SUBMITTED BY:
M. Davis and Company, Inc.
1520 Locust Street, 3rd Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19102
PH: 215.790.8900
FAX: 215.790.8930
Submitted: March 22, 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. OVERVIEW.............................................................................................................. 3
2. SAMPLE.................................................................................................................... 4
2.1 RDD Sample ................................................................................................... 4
2.2 ID-PLUS.......................................................................................................... 5
2.3 Sample Design and Development .................................................................. 5
2.4 Fielding Period ................................................................................................ 6
3. METHODOLOGY AND RESULTS ..................................................................... 7
3.1 Methodology for Creating Rent Estimates.................................................... 7
3.2 Methodology for calculating 40th and/or 50th percentiles, standard errors
and confidence intervals. ...................................................................................... 9
3.3 Rents by Bedroom Size, and Blended Rates ............................................... 10
3.4 GULFPORT-BILOXI ........................................................................................... 12
3.41 Rates ............................................................................................................ 13
3.42 Final Dispositions ....................................................................................... 14
3.43 Cell phone questions................................................................................... 15
3.5 NEW ORLEANS .................................................................................................. 17
3.51 Rates ............................................................................................................ 17
3.52 Final Dispositions ....................................................................................... 18
3.53 Cell phone questions................................................................................... 19
3.6 MINOT, ND (NON-METROPOLITAN) .......................................................... 21
3.61 Rates ............................................................................................................ 21
3.62 Final Dispositions ....................................................................................... 22
3.63 Cell phone questions................................................................................... 23
3.7 RENO-SPARKS ................................................................................................... 25
3.71 Rates ............................................................................................................ 25
3.72 Final Dispositions ....................................................................................... 26
3.73 Cell phone questions................................................................................... 27
4. CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................... 29
APPENDIX.................................................................................................................. 33

1. OVERVIEW
The goal of this task is to develop the 40th percentile rents for 2 bedroom-equivalent units for all
renters, for recent mover renters1, and for recent movers in 2 bedroom units in each of 4 survey
areas, and then develop the standard error and 95 percent confidence interval for each estimate.
The requirement for the study is that half-widths (i.e. half the distance between the upper and
lower bounds) of the 95 percent confidence interval around the estimated quantile for all recent
movers are within 5%. Table 2 below summarizes the findings. As can be seen in Table 2, for all
4 survey areas, the interval half-widths are within 5% of the estimate for the blended rate of
recent movers (4.0% Gulfport-Biloxi, 3.7% in New Orleans, 4.1% in Minot, and 3.6% in RenoSparks).
In addition to presenting the blended rent, the task also requires presenting the 40th percentile
rents separately for 1, 2 and where relevant, 3 bedroom units for all renters, for recent movers,
and for stayers. These numbers are presented in Table 4.
Beside determining the Fair Market Rent for each area, we were concerned about whether the
survey suffered from any bias from having landline-only sample and no cell phone sample. To
begin to address this issue, we added several cell phone questions to this survey. These
questions were originally asked in another well-known survey by Stephen Blumberg.2
In this survey, we ask three questions about cell phone possession and usage. In Question 21 (a)
we ask if the respondent or anyone in their family had a working cell phone. In Question 21 (b)
we ask how many cell phones the family possessed, and in Question 21 (c) we ask to what extent
the respondent and their families used the cell phone for their calls.
We report results from this three-part cell phone question after we report the fair market rents for
each market. We present these cell phone results broken down by recent-mover and stayer
renters.
But before we discuss the fair market rent and cell phone results, we discuss the methodology of
how the random digit dialing (RDD) sample was drawn. We also indicate the Fielding Period.

Recent mover is defined as someone who moved within the last 24 months for Gulfport-Biloxi, New Orleans and
Minot, and someone who moved within the last 12 months for Reno-Sparks. Non-recent mover (Stayer) is defined
as someone who did not move within the last 24 months for Gulfport-Biloxi, New Orleans and Minot, and someone
who did not move within the last 12 months for Reno-Sparks.
2
Blumberg SJ, Luke JV, Division of Health Interview Statistics, National Center for Health Statistics, Davidson G,
Davern M, Yu T, and Soderberg K, the State Health Access Data Assistance Center, University of Minnesota.
National Health Statistics Report Number 14, March 2009.

2. SAMPLE
2.1 RDD Sample
MDAC utilized the services of the GENESYS System (Marketing Systems Group, Inc.) to
generate sample. To generate the sample the GENESYS System employs list-assisted random
digit dialing methodology. List-assisted refers to the use of commercial lists of directory-listed
telephone numbers to increase the likelihood of dialing household residences. This method gives
unlisted telephone numbers the same chance to be selected as directory-listed numbers.
The system utilizes a database consisting of all residential telephone exchanges, working bank
information, and various geographic service parameters such as state, county, Primary ZIP code,
etc. In addition, the database provides working bank information at the two-digit level – each of
the 100 banks (i.e., first two digits of the four-digit suffix) in each exchange is defined as
"working" if it contains one or more listed telephone households. On a National basis, this
definition covers an estimated 96.4% of all residential telephone numbers and 99.96% of listed
residential numbers. This database is updated on a quarterly basis. The sample frame consists of
the set of all telephone exchanges that meet the geographic criteria. This geographic definition is
made using one or more of the geographic codes included in the database. Following
specification of the geographic area, the system selects all exchanges and associated working
banks that meet those criteria. Based on the sample frame defined above, the system computes
an interval such that the number of intervals is equivalent to the desired number of sample
pieces. The interval is computed by dividing the total possible telephone numbers in the sample
frame (i.e., # of working banks X 100) by the number of RDD sample pieces required. Within
each interval a single random number is generated between 1 and the interval size; the
corresponding phone number within the interval is identified and written to an output file. The
result is that every potential telephone number within the defined sample frame has a known and
equal probability of selection.
Below is Genesys' Random Digit Dialing sampling methodology:
1. Epsem (Equal Probability Selection Method) sample is generated in the
following way:
a) The sample frame is first specified, which is defined as a group of exchanges serving some
geographic area - this could be a city, county, state, National, etc., or even just a set of
exchanges.
b) The sampling interval is then calculated by summing all of the exchanges and working blocks
in the frame, times 100.
c) This sum is then divided by the number of RDD records desired, thus specifying the size of
the frame subdivisions.
d) At this point, the frame size has been fixed and divided into equal-sized subsets of ten-digit
numbers.
e) Within each of the subsets, one number is selected at random from each of the equal-sized
intervals.
f) All possible ten-digit numbers are given an equal probability of selection, regardless of the
density of listed households within them. Hence, an extremely representative sample is
produced.
g) There are a few advantages to an epsem sample:
1) Generates a statistically valid random sample which also allows for unbiased estimates.
4

2) Project to all households with a phone number.
3) Is no potential bias toward households with listed phone numbers.
2.2 ID-PLUS
This process is designed to purge about 75% of the non-productive numbers (non-working,
businesses and fax/modems). Since this process is completed after the sample is generated, the
statistical integrity of the sample is maintained. GENESYS employs the ID-PLUS process for
the HUD RDD Fair Market Rent surveys.
The Pre-Dialer Phase – The file of generated numbers is passed against the ID database,
comprised of the GENESYS-Plus business database and the listed household database. Business
numbers are eliminated while listed household numbers are set aside, to be recombined after the
active Dialer Phase.
The Dialer Phase – The remaining numbers are then processed using automated dialing
equipment – actually a specially configured PROYTYS Telephony system. In this phase, the
dialing is 100% attended and the phone is allowed to ring up to two times. Specially trained
agents are available to speak to anyone who might answer the phone and the number is
dispositioned accordingly. Given this human intervention in evaluating all call results, virtually
all remaining businesses, non-working and non-tritone intercepts, compensate for differences in
non-working intercept behavior. The testing takes place during the restricted hours of 9 a.m. – 5
p.m. local time, to further minimize intrusion since fewer people are home during these hours.
The Post-Dialer Phase – The sample is then reconstructed, excluding the non-productive
numbers identified in the previous two phases.
2.3 Sample Design and Development
TABLE 1
Sample
Generated
Sent
Released

GulfportBiloxi, MS

New Orleans,
LA

142,700
79,604
77,504

154,101
77,106
56,860

Minot, ND
(NonMetropolitan)
43,803
29,594
29,594

Reno-Sparks,
NV
66,186
43,698
43,698

GENESYS generated a probability sample of Gulfport-Biloxi, MS, New Orleans, LA, Minot,
ND (non-metropolitan) and Reno-Sparks, NV using list-assisted random digit dialing (RDD)
methodology for the survey. GENESYS generated 142,700 telephone numbers for GulfportBiloxi of which 79,604 were determined working numbers, 154,101 telephone numbers for New
Orleans of which 77,106 were determined working numbers, 43,803 numbers for Minot which
29,594 were determined working numbers, and 66,186 numbers for Reno-Sparks of which
43,698 were determined working numbers. MDAC purchased the sample for each FMR area
with the intent of achieving a 40% response rate at minimum. MDAC divided the sample for
each FMR area into replicates of 500 numbers each. The sample generated for each FMR area
5

accounted for the estimated proportion of numbers that may be non-working or disconnected and
the sample design yielded a representative sample for each market area.
MDAC released all working sample numbers for Minot and Reno-Sparks. MDAC released
56,860 of the 77,106 working numbers for New Orleans, LA, and released 77,504 of the 79,604
working numbers for Gulfport-Biloxi.
Next, we specify the fielding period for the Fair Market Rent surveys.
2.4 Fielding Period
MDAC fielding began in mid-September 2009 and continued for approximately six weeks in
each market. Fielding ended in the final market November 14, 2009. For Gulfport, Biloxi
fielding generated 201 completed recent mover and 200 stayer interviews. For New Orleans, LA
fielding generated 203 recent mover and 203 stayers. For Minot, ND fielding generated 207
recent movers and 206 stayers. For Reno-Sparks, NV fielding generated 201 recent movers and
203 stayers.
Now, we turn to the Methodology for creating rent estimates and calculating 40th and 50th
percentiles, standard errors and confidence intervals.

3. METHODOLOGY AND RESULTS
TABLE 2
Summary Statistics3
Blended Gross Rent for All Renters, Recent Movers, and for Recent Movers in 2-BR Units
All renters (blended)
Number of Obs
40th percentile
SE of 40 th
95% confidence interval around
40th percentile
Percentage difference of half
width around estimate
Recent Movers (blended)
Number of Obs
40th percentile
SE of 40 th
95% confidence interval around
40th percentile
Percentage difference of half
width around estimate
Recent Movers (2 br only)
Number of Obs
40th percentile
SE of 40 th
95% confidence interval around
40th percentile
Percentage difference of half
width around estimate

GulfportBiloxi

New Orleans

Minot

Reno-Sparks

401
$724.56
$11.55
$694.17$739.44
3.1%

406
$819.40
$13.20
$790.11$841.87
3.2%

413
$594.26
$8.88
$581.05$615.88
2.9%

404
$868.00
$11.51
$843.94-$889.07

201
$741.26
$15.07
$715.93$775.01
4.0%

203
$860.42
$16.15
$829.00$892.29
3.7%

207
$622.69
$12.89
$594.00$644.52
4.1%

201
$842.46
$15.34
$809.90-$870.03

150
$745.00
$15.96
$713.20$775.76
4.2%

129
$883.40
$18.60
$839.08$912.00
4.1%

110
$647.00
$17.16
$599.93$667.21
5.2%

144
$852.60
$23.05
$800.00-$890.37

2.6%

3.6%

5.3%

The blended rent is defined as gross rent multiplied by the appropriate adjustment factor to
obtain a 2-bedroom equivalent rent.
3.1 Methodology for Creating Rent Estimates
1. Estimate contract rent for each observation. For housing units that have more
than one family or individual responsible for paying the rent, the contract rent amount
is the Question 15 total amount. For units that have only one individual or family
responsible for paying the rent, the contract rent amount is the Question 16 total
amount. (Note that if Q15 or 16 response is “8888”, “9999” or less than or equal to
$2, it is recoded as “0”). Any record with final contract rent =0 was deleted.
2. Estimate GROSS RENT which equals CONTRACT RENT + UTILITIES.
UTILITIES are estimated based on which utilities are included in the rent and which
are paid for separately by the tenant. Any utility not paid for as part of the rent is

Note, that as described below, since the quantiles are not distributed normally, we cannot use the standard formula
X +/- 1.96 SE to calculate upper and lower bounds for the 95 percent confidence interval.

added to the contract rent amount based on the location, building type, number of
bedrooms, and the fuel used.
The survey (Q22) identifies whether any utilities are paid for separately, or whether
they are all included as part of the rent. If all utilities are included in the contract rent,
then GROSS RENT = CONTRACT RENT.4
If any utilities are paid for by the tenant, then we look at the series of questions about
utilities to calculate the UTILITIES amount that we need to add to the CONTRACT
RENT to obtain GROSS RENT. For example if heat is not included in the rent, then
we need to look at the type of fuel, building type, (attached or detached), number of
bedrooms, and location (based on MSA code). This gets matched with the utility
look-up file to get the correct heating cost estimate for the unit.
We estimate utilities costs for other utilities in a similar manner. Cooking and hot
water allowances depend on location, number of bedrooms and fuel type. Air
conditioning, main electric, water and sewer, and rental costs for range and
refrigerator depend only on location and number of bedrooms.
The type of property (attached/detached) and the types of fuel used for certain utilities
were missing in some cases. In order not to lose cases with missing data, we imputed
based on the predominant type for that utility and location.
Where the respondent does not know if the building is attached or detached (Q19), we
reviewed the response to Q18. We did not assume that the unit was attached. In all
cases, the Q19 response was obvious from the Q18 response.
If heating fuel is missing (Q23 answer choice greater than/equal to 7) then in RenoSparks and Minot we set it to 2, and in Gulfport-Biloxi and New Orleans we set it to
1.
If Air Conditioning fuel is missing (Q26 greater than/equal to 7) we set it to 1.
If cooking fuel is missing (Q28 greater than/equal to 7) we set all four markets to 1;
no markets were set to 2.
If hot water fuel is missing (Q32 greater than/equal to 7) then in Reno-Sparks and
Minot we set it to 2, and in Gulfport-Biloxi and New Orleans we set it to 1.
3.

Convert each observation into two-bedroom equivalent rents.
The survey collects rents for 1 and 2 bedroom units (and for 3 bedroom units in nonmetro counties). Thus, once a GROSS RENT is calculated for each survey unit, we
must convert all observations to “2-bedroom equivalent” rents. This is done based on
the ratio of the current (2009) 2BR FMR to 1BR FMR in the area. For Minot, ND we
4

If respondents did not know whether or not utilities were included in the rent, the cases were
excluded.

also have some 3 bedroom units that are converted to 2BR equivalent rents based on
the ratio of the current 2BR FMR to 3BR FMR in the area.
Table 3 shows the adjustment factors used:
TABLE 3
Conversion Factors for computing two-bedroom equivalents in each market.
Location
One Bedroom
Three
Bedroom

Gulfport-Biloxi

New Orleans

Minot

Reno-Sparks

1.17
NA

1.23
0.73

1.24
NA

3.2 Methodology for calculating 40 th and/or 50th percentiles, standard errors and
confidence intervals.
1.

Quantile Estimates. Once we have the 2-bedroom equivalent for each unit we can
calculate the 40th percentiles separately for all renters, recent movers, and for recent
movers in 2-bedroom units. The 40 th percentile is the rent for which 40 percent
observations are below the number (and 60 percent are above). For the 50th percentile, 50
percent of the rents are below the number and 50 percent are above. This survey used
only 40th percentiles for all markets.

Estimating Standard Errors and 95 Percent Confidence Intervals

For each market, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) is defined as the 40 th percentile of the twobedroom equivalent rents. This must be computed separately for recent movers, non-recent
movers, and all renters. A recent mover is defined as a renter who has moved into his or her unit
within the past 24 months, except in the Reno-Sparks market where it is defined as a renter who
has moved into his or her unit within the past 12 months. The 40th percentile gross rents are also
computed for unconverted one-bedroom gross rents and, in Ward County, unconverted threebedroom gross rents.
To compute the 40 th percentile for a given set of rents, we follow the following procedure. Let n
be the number of rents under consideration.
1. Sort the rents from lowest to highest. Break ties arbitrarily. The lowest rent has rank 1
and is denoted X(1); the largest rent has rank n and is denoted X(n). In general, the rent
with rank r is denoted X(r).
2. Let P = 0.4n. If P is an integer, then the 40 th percentile is X(P).
3. If P is not an integer, then let P0 be the integer part of P, that is, the largest integer less
than P, and let f be the fractional part of P, namely P − P0. Then the 40th percentile is
(1−f)X(P0) + fX(P0+1).
To compute the 95% confidence interval for the 40th percentile, we follow the following
procedure, using the sorted list produced in step 1 above.

1. Let L

and let U

2. If nL is an integer, then the lower 95% confidence limit for the 40th percentile is X(nL).
3. If nL is not an integer, then let L0 be the integer part of nL, that is, the largest integer less than nL,
and let f be the fractional part of nL, namely nL − L0. Then the lower 95% confidence limit for
the 40th percentile is (1−f)X(L0) + fX(L0+1).
4. If nU is an integer, then the upper 95% confidence limit for the 40th percentile is X(nU).
5. If nU is not an integer, then let U0 be the integer part of nU, that is, the largest integer less than
nU, and let f be the fractional part of nU, namely nU − U0. Then the upper 95% confidence limit
for the 40th percentile is (1−f)X(U0) + fX(U0+1).

To compute the standard error of the 40 th percentile estimate, we follow the following procedure.
1. Compute the half-width of the confidence interval
.
2. The standard error of the 40th percentile estimate is

As can be seen in Table 2, for all 4 survey areas, the interval half-widths are within 5
percent of the estimate for the blended rate of recent movers.
3.3 Rents by Bedroom Size, and Blended Rates
In addition to requiring the blended rents and confidence intervals for all renters, recent movers,
and recent movers in 2-bedroom units, the scope of work also requires the 40th percentile rents
by bedroom size (1, 2 BR units everywhere, and 3 BR units in Minot). These are the gross rents
before applying the adjustment factors (i.e. rents including utilities). Table 4 presents the 40 th
percentile rents by bedroom size for all renters, recent movers, and non-recent movers or stayers.

TABLE 4, Gross Rent Distribution by Bedroom Size, and Blended Rate
(Blended Rate is the 2BR-Equivalent Version – the rent multiplied by the adjustment
factor).
Gulfport-Biloxi

New Orleans

Minot

Reno-Sparks

$594.00

$687.00

$455.60

$676.40

105

147

108

122

40th percentile
2 BR Units
# 2 BR units

$726.00

$830.80

$605.20

$881.20

296

259

219

282

40th percentile
3 BR Units
# 3 BR units

$851.00

40th percentile
2BR equivalent
units (blended rate)
# 2BR equivalent
units
Recent Movers
40th percentile
1BR Units
# 1 BR units

$724.56

$819.40

$594.26

$868.00

401

406

413

404

$632.00

$698.40

$458.00

$675.00

40th percentile
2 BR Units
# 2 BR units

$745.00

$883.40

$647.00

$852.60

150

129

110

144

40th percentile
3 BR Units
# 3 BR units

$860.60

40th percentile
2BR equivalent
units (blended rate)
# 2BR equivalent
units

$741.26

$860.42

$622.69

$842.46

201

203

207

201

All Renters
40th percentile
1BR Units
# 1 BR units

TABLE 4,
(Continued)
Gulfport-Biloxi

New Orleans

Minot

Reno-Sparks

$538.00

$648.00

$453.40

$674.00

40th percentile
2 BR Units
# 2 BR units

$707.40

$755.00

$573.20

$906.80

146

130

109

138

40th percentile
3 BR Units
# 3 BR units

$808.60

40th percentile
2BR equivalent
units (blended rate)
# 2BR equivalent
units

$696.00

$757.66

$574.66

$887.40

200

203

206

203

Stayers
40th percentile
1BR Units
# 1 BR units

Below, MDAC provides a discussion of results for each individual market, along with the Final
Disposition Status of all phone calls and the AAPOR number three response, cooperation,
refusal, and contact rates.

3.4 GULFPORT-BILOXI
Overall, between September 13th and October 30 th, 401 respondents completed the Fair Market
rent survey for Gulfport-Biloxi, MS of which 201 were Recent Movers and 200 were Stayers
(moved more than 24 months ago). For all renters the 40th percentile gross rent is $724.56 with a
standard error (SE) of $11.55 giving the 95% confidence interval a range of $694.17 to $739.44.
The percentage difference of the half width around the estimate is 3.1%.
For the 201 recent movers the 40th percentile blended gross rent is $741.26 with a SE of $15.07
giving the 95% confidence interval a range of $715.93 to $775.01. The percentage difference of
the half width around the estimate is 4.0%.
For the 150 two-bedroom recent movers the 40th percentile gross rent is $745.00 with a SE of
$15.96 giving the 95% confidence interval a range of $713.20 to $775.76. The percentage
difference of the half width around the estimate is 4.2%.
Regarding the gross rent by bedroom size for all renters the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is
$594.00 (105 respondents) while the gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $726.00 (296
respondents) and the gross rent for the two-bedroom equivalent unit (blended rate) is $724.56
(all 401 respondents).
For recent movers the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is $632.00 (51 respondents) while the
gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $745.00 (150 respondents) and the gross rent for the twobedroom equivalent is $741.26 (all 201 recent movers).
12

For non-recent movers or stayers the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is $538.00 (54
respondents) while the gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $707.40 (146 respondents) and the
gross rent for the two-bedroom equivalent is $696.00 (all 200 stayers).
3.41 Rates
TABLE 5 Gulfport-Biloxi
AAPOR
Response Rate 3
Cooperation Rate 3
Refusal Rate 3
Contact Rate3

Percent
54.6
85.3
9.9
90.1

The AAPOR Response Rate3 calculation is 54.6% for Gulfport-Biloxi. The AAPOR
Cooperation Rate is 85.3%, the Refusal Rate is 9.9% and the Contact Rate is 90.1%.

3.42 Final Dispositions
TABLE 6

GulfportBiloxi, MS
Final

AAPOR
Final
Disposition
Codes
1.0/1.10
1.200
2.110
2.111
2.120
2.200
2.210
2.221
2.320
3.120
3.130
3.160
3.200
3.210
3.900
4.100
4.200
4.300
4.420
4.510
4.700

Complete
Partial
Refusal
Household-level refusal
Break off
Non-contact
Respondent never available
Answering machine household-no message left
Physically or mentally unable/incompetent
Always busy
No answer
Technical phone problems
Housing unit, unknown if eligible respondent
No screener completed
Other
Out of sample
Fax/data line
Non-working/disconnect
Cell phone
Business, government office, other
organizations
No eligible respondent
Total phone numbers used

401
17
47
3
2
48
2
2
4
1708
8314
2473
9369
47
60
2
4128
30235
238
5145
15259
77504

Table 6 shows the breakdown of the 77,504 numbers released for the survey in Gulfport-Biloxi,
MS.

3.43 Cell phone questions
For the final wave Questions 21a, 21b, and 21c were added. The purpose was to gather
information about respondent cell phone usage in Gulfport-Biloxi. Table numbers in parentheses
represent the raw number of respondents. In Gulfport-Biloxi we see approximately half of both
the recent movers and stayers had cell phones. Of those with cell phones, over 90% in both
groups had either one or two cell phones among family members. Finally, despite calling the
respondent on a landline phone, 26% of the recent movers said they used their cell phone for all
or almost all of their calls. For Stayers, 19% used their cell phone for all or most all of their
calls. In comparison, 7% more recent movers use their cell phone for all or most of their calls.
For Question Q21a, we found no statistically significant difference between recent movers and
stayers in the percentage of households that have a working cell phone (P-value = 0.4495 in a
chi-square test). For Question Q21b, among households with at least one working cell phone, we
found no statistically significant difference between recent movers and stayers in the average
number of working cell phones in the household (P-value = 0.6541 in a two-sample t-test). For
Question 21c, among households with at least one working cell phone, we found no statistically
significant difference between recent movers and stayers in the relative frequency in which they
receive landline and cell phone calls (P-value = 0.4000 in a chi-square test).
Q21a. Do you or anyone in your family have a working cell phone?

Total
Yes
No
Don't Know
Refused

Recent Mover

Stayer

100% (201)
50% (100)
50% (101)
0% (0)
0% (0)

100% (200)
53% (106)
46% (92)
0% (0)
1% (2)

Q21b. How many working cell phones do you or people in your family have?
Total
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
98 (Don't Know)
99 (Refused)

Recent Mover
100% (100)
61% (61)
35% (35)
3% (3)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
1% (1)

Stayer
100% (108)
64% (69)
27% (29)
5% (5)
3% (3)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
2% (2)

Q21c. Of all the telephone calls that you or your family receives, are...
Total
1 All or almost all
calls received on
cell phones
2 Some received
on cell phones and
some on regular
phones
3 Very few or
none on cell
phones
8 Don't Know
9 Refused

Recent Mover
100% (100)

Stayer
100% (108)

26% (26)

19% (20)

43% (43)

45% (49)

29% (29)
0% (0)
2% (2)

34% (37)
0% (0)
2% (2)

3.5 NEW ORLEANS
Overall, between September 12th and October 28 th, 406 respondents completed the Fair Market
rent survey for New Orleans, LA of which 203 were Recent Movers and 203 were Stayers. For
all renters the 40th percentile gross rent is $819.40 with a standard error (SE) of $13.20 giving the
95% confidence interval a range of $790.11 to $841.87. The percentage difference of the half
width around the estimate is 3.2%.
For the 203 recent movers the 40th percentile blended gross rent is $860.42 with a SE of $16.15
giving the 95% confidence interval a range of $829.00 to $892.29. The percentage difference of
the half width around the estimate is 3.7%.
For the 129 two-bedroom recent movers the 40th percentile gross rent is $883.40 with a SE of
$18.60 giving the 95% confidence interval a range of $839.08 to $912.00. The percentage
difference of the half width around the estimate is 4.1%.
Regarding the gross rent by bedroom size for all renters the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is
$687.00 (147 respondents) while the gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $830.80 (259
respondents) and the gross rent for the two-bedroom equivalent unit (blended rate) is $819.40
(all 406 respondents).
For recent movers the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is $698.40 (74 respondents) while the
gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $883.40 (129 respondents) and the gross rent for the twobedroom equivalent is $860.42 (all 203 recent movers).
For non-recent movers or stayers the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is $648.00 (73
respondents) while the gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $755.00 (130 respondents) and the
gross rent for the two-bedroom equivalent is $757.66 (all 203 stayers).

3.51 Rates
TABLE 7 New Orleans, LA
AAPOR
Response Rate 3
Cooperation Rate 3
Refusal Rate 3
Contact Rate3

Percent
50.9
86.8
10.5
96.9

The AAPOR Response Rate3 calculation is 50.9% New Orleans. The AAPOR Cooperation Rate
is 86.8%, the Refusal Rate is 10.5% and the Contact Rate is 96.9%.

3.52 Final Dispositions
TABLE 8

New
Orleans, LA
Final

AAPOR
Final
Disposition
Codes
1.0/1.10
1.200
2.110
2.111
2.120
2.200
2.221
2.320
3.120
3.130
3.160
3.200
3.210
3.900
4.200
4.300
4.420
4.510
4.700

Complete
Partial
Refusal
Household-level refusal
Break off
Non-contact
Answering machine household-no message left
Physically or mentally unable/incompetent
Always busy
No answer
Technical phone problems
Housing unit, unknown if eligible respondent
No screener completed
Other
Fax/data line
Non-working/disconnect
Cell phone
Business, government office, other
organizations
No eligible respondent
Total phone numbers used

406
11
49
1
1
14
1
2
2148
8079
1512
10423
77
37
3671
17122
63
3471
9772
56860

Table 8 shows the breakdown of the 56,860 numbers released for the survey in New Orleans,
LA.

3.53 Cell phone questions
For the final wave Questions 21a, 21b, and 21c were added. The purpose was to gather
information about respondent cell phone usage in New Orleans. Table numbers in parentheses
represent the raw number of respondents. In New Orleans, we see more than half of both the
recent movers (59%) and stayers (55%) had cell phones. Of those with cell phones, over 90% in
both groups had either one or two cell phones among family members. Finally, despite calling
the respondent on a landline phone, 31% of the recent movers said they used their cell phone for
all or almost all of their calls. For Stayers, 21% used their cell phone for all or most all of their
calls. In comparison, ten percent more recent movers use their cell phone for all or most of their
calls.
For Question Q21a, we found no statistically significant difference between recent movers and
stayers in the percentage of households that have a working cell phone (P-value = 0.4208 in a
chi-square test). For Question Q21b, among households with at least one working cell phone, we
found no statistically significant difference between recent movers and stayers in the average
number of working cell phones in the household (P-value = 0.4345 in a two-sample t-test). For
Question 21c, among households with at least one working cell phone, we found no statistically
significant difference between recent movers and stayers in the relative frequency in which they
receive landline and cell phone calls (P-value = 0.1965 in a chi-square test).
Q21a. Do you or anyone in your family have a working cell phone?
Total
Yes
No
Don't Know
Refused

Recent Mover
100% (203)
59% (120)
40% (82)
0% (0)
1% (1)

Stayer
100% (203)
55% (112)
44% (90)
0% (0)
1% (1)

Q21b. How many working cell phones do you or people in your family have?
Total
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
98 (Don't Know)
99 (Refused)

Recent Mover
100% (121)
64% (77)
26% (32)
4%(5)
3% (4)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
3% (3)

Stayer
100% (113)
66% (75)
26% (29)
6% (7)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
2% (2)

Q21c. Of all the telephone calls that you or your family receives, are...
Recent Mover
100% (121)

Stayer
100% (113)

1 All or almost all
calls received on
cell phones

31% (38)

21% (24)

2 Some received on
cell phones and
some on regular
phones

43% (52)

50% (56)

3 Very few or none
on cell phones
8 Don't Know
9 Refused

22% (27)
2% (2)
2% (2)

27% (30)
2% (2)
1% (1)

Total

3.6 MINOT, ND (NON-METROPOLITAN)
Overall, between September 22nd and November 14th, 413 respondents completed the Fair
Market rent survey for Minot, ND (non-metropolitan) of which 207 were Recent Movers and
206 were Stayers. For all renters the 40 th percentile gross rent is $594.26 with a standard error
(SE) of $8.88 giving the 95% confidence interval a range of $581.05 to $615.88. The percentage
difference of the half width around the estimate is 2.9%.
For the 207 recent movers the 40th percentile blended gross rent is $622.69 with a SE of $12.89
giving the 95% confidence interval a range of $594.00 to $644.52. The percentage difference of
the half width around the estimate is 4.1%.
For the 110 two-bedroom recent movers the 40th percentile gross rent is $647.00 with a SE of
$17.16 giving the 95% confidence interval a range of $599.93 to $667.21. The percentage
difference of the half width around the estimate is 5.2%.
Regarding the gross rent by bedroom size for all renters the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is
$455.60 (108 respondents) while the gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $605.20 (219
respondents), the gross rent for a three-bedroom unit is $851.00 (86 respondents) and the gross
rent for the two-bedroom equivalent unit (blended rate) is $594.26 (all 413 respondents).
For recent movers the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is $458.00 (50 respondents) while the
gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $647.00 (110 respondents), the gross rent for a threebedroom unit is $860.60 (47 respondents) and the gross rent for the two-bedroom equivalent is
$622.69 (all 207 recent movers).
For non-recent movers or stayers the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is $453.40 (58
respondents) while the gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $573.20 (109 respondents), the gross
rent for a three-bedroom unit is $808.60 (39 respondents) and the gross rent for the two-bedroom
equivalent is $574.66 (all 206 stayers).
3.61 Rates
TABLE 9 Minot, ND
AAPOR
Response Rate 3
Cooperation Rate 3
Refusal Rate 3
Contact Rate3

Percent
55.4
90.4
6
98.3

The AAPOR Response Rate3 calculation is 55.4% for Minot, ND. The AAPOR Cooperation
Rate is 90.4%, the Refusal Rate is 6% and the Contact Rate is 98.3%.

3.62 Final Dispositions
TABLE 10

AAPOR
Final
Disposition
Codes
1.0/1.10
1.200
2.110
2.111
2.120
2.200
2.221
2.222
2.320
3.120
3.130
3.160
3.200
3.210
3.900
4.200
4.300
4.420
4.510
4.700

Minot, ND
Final

Complete
Partial
Refusal
Household-level refusal
Break off
Non-contact
Answering machine household-no message left
Answering machine household-message left
Physically or mentally unable/incompetent
Always busy
No answer
Technical phone problems
Housing unit, unknown if eligible respondent
No screener completed
Other
Fax/data line
Non-working/disconnect
Cell phone
Business, government office, other
organizations
No eligible respondent
Total phone numbers used

413
16
16
5
7
6
1
1
2
3803
2951
760
3420
43
69
1145
6739
26
1448
8723
29594

Table 10 shows the breakdown of the 29,594 numbers released for the survey in Minot, ND
which is a non-metropolitan area.

3.63 Cell phone questions
For the final wave, Questions 21a, 21b, and 21c were added. The purpose was to gather
information about respondent cell phone usage in Minot. Table numbers in parentheses
represent the raw number of respondents. In Minot, we see over 60% recent movers have a cell
phone and almost half the stayers had cell phones. Of those with cell phones, close to 87% of
the recent movers had either one or two cell phones among family members, while 95% of
stayers had one or two cell phones among family members. Finally, despite calling the
respondent on a landline phone, 34% of the recent movers said they used their cell phone for all
or almost all of their calls. For Stayers, 22% used their cell phone for all or most all of their
calls. In comparison, 12 percent more recent movers use their cell phone for all or most calls.
For Question Q21a, we found a statistically significant difference between recent movers and
stayers. Recent movers were more likely than stayers to have a working cell phone (P-value =
0.0054 in a chi-square test). For Question Q21b, among households with at least one working
cell phone, we again found a statistically significant difference between recent movers and
stayers. Recent movers had more working cell phones in their household on average (mean =
1.65, SD = 0.93) than did stayers (mean = 1.33, SD = 0.67) (P-value = 0.0028 in a two-sample ttest). For Question 21c, among households with at least one working cell phone, we found a
statistically significant difference showing that recent movers were more likely than stayers to
receive all or almost all telephone calls on a cell phone (P-value = 0.0123 in a chi-square test).
Question 21a. Do you or anyone in your family have a working cell phone?
Total
Yes
No
Don't Know
Refused

Recent Mover
100% (207)
62% (128)
37% (77)
0% (0)
1% (2)

Stayer
100% (206)
49% (100)
51% (105)
0% (1)
0% (0)

Q21b. How many working cell phones do you or people in your family have?
Recent Mover
Stayer
Total
100% (130)
100% (101)
1
55% (71)
73% (74)
2
32% (41)
22% (22)
3
8% (10)
2% (2)
4
2% (2)
1% (1)
5
3% (4)
1% (1)
6
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
7
0% (0)
0% (0)
8
0% (0)
0% (0)
9
0%
(0)
0% (0)
10
0% (0)
98 (Don't Know)
1% (1)
99 (Refused)
2% (2) *
0% (0)
*The total is greater than 100% due to rounding.

Q21c. Of all the telephone calls that you or your family receives, are...
Recent Mover
100% (128)

Stayer
100% (101)

1 All or almost all calls
received on cell phones

34% (44)

22% (22)

2 Some received on cell
phones and some on regular
phones

45% (58)

42% (42)

Total

3 Very few or none on cell
phones
20% (25)
8 Don't Know
1% (1)
9 Refused
2% (2)*
*The total is greater than 100% due to rounding.

36% (36)
1% (1)*
0% (0)

3.7 RENO-SPARKS
Overall, between October 6th and November 14th, 404 respondents completed the Fair Market
rent survey for Reno-Sparks, NV of which 201 were Recent Movers and 203 were Stayers. For
all renters the 40th percentile gross rent is $868.00 with a standard error (SE) of $11.51 giving the
95% confidence interval a range of $843.94 to $889.07. The percentage difference of the half
width around the estimate is 2.6%.
For the 201 recent movers the 40th percentile blended gross rent is $842.46 with a SE of $15.34
giving the 95% confidence interval a range of $809.90 to $870.03. The percentage difference of
the half width around the estimate is 3.6%.
For the 144 two-bedroom recent movers the 40th percentile gross rent is $852.60 with a SE of
$23.05 giving the 95% confidence interval a range of $800.00 to $890.37. The percentage
difference of the half width around the estimate is 5.3%.
Regarding the gross rent by bedroom size for all renters the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is
$676.40 (122 respondents) while the gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $881.20 (282
respondents) and the gross rent for the two-bedroom equivalent unit (blended rate) is $868.00
(all 404 respondents).
For recent movers the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is $675.00 (57 respondents) while the
gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $852.60 (144 respondents) and the gross rent for the twobedroom equivalent is $842.46 (all 201 recent movers).
For non-recent movers or stayers the gross rent of a one-bedroom unit is $674.00 (65
respondents) while the gross rent for a two-bedroom unit is $906.80 (138 respondents) and the
gross rent for the two-bedroom equivalent is $887.40 (all 203 stayers).

3.71 Rates
TABLE 11
AAPOR
Response Rate 3
Cooperation Rate 3
Refusal Rate 3
Contact Rate3

Percent
42.9
89.4
5
94.2

The AAPOR Response Rate3 calculation is 42.9% for Reno-Sparks. The AAPOR Cooperation
Rate is 89.4%, the Refusal Rate is 5% and the Contact Rate is 94.2%.

3.72 Final Dispositions
TABLE 12

RenoSparks, NV
Final

AAPOR
Final
Disposition
Codes
1.0/1.10
1.200
2.110
2.111
2.120
2.200
2.222
2.310
2.332
2.333
3.120
3.130
3.160
3.200
3.210
3.900
4.200
4.300
4.420
4.510
4.700

Complete
Partial
Refusal
Household-level refusal
Break off
Non-contact
Answering machine household-message left
Deceased respondent
Respondent language problem
No interviewer available for needed language
Always busy
No answer
Technical phone problems
Housing unit, unknown if eligible respondent
No screener completed
Other
Fax/data line
Non-working/disconnect
Cell phone
Business, government office, other
organizations
No eligible respondent

404
24
20
3
1
27
1
1
2
1
992
5470
3776
10920
46

Total phone numbers used

43698

50
2833
7874
45
3200
8008

Table 12 shows the breakdown of the 43,698 numbers released for the survey in Reno-Sparks,
NV.

3.73 Cell phone questions
For the final wave Questions 21a, 21b, and 21c were added. The purpose was to gather
information about respondent cell phone usage in Reno-Sparks. Table numbers in parentheses
represent the raw number of respondents. In Minot, we see approximately 50% of both recent
movers (49%) and stayers (50%) have a cell phone. Of those with cell phones, 88% of the recent
movers had either one or two cell phones among family members, while 95% of the stayers had
one or two cell phones among family members. Finally, despite calling the respondent on a
landline phone, 36% of the recent movers said they used their cell phone for all or almost all of
their calls. For Stayers, 21% used their cell phone for all or most all of their calls. In
comparison, 15 percent more recent movers use their cell phone for all or most of their calls.
For Question Q21a, we found no statistically significant difference between recent movers and
stayers in the percentage of households that have a working cell phone (P-value = 0.9205 in a
chi-square test). For Question Q21b, among households with at least one working cell phone, we
found no statistically significant difference between recent movers and stayers in the average
number of working cell phones in the household (P-value = 0.2240 in a two-sample t-test). For
Question 21c, among households with at least one working cell phone, we found no statistically
significant difference between recent movers and stayers in the relative frequency in which they
receive landline and cell phone calls (P-value = 0.0556 in a chi-square test).
Q21a. Do you or anyone in your family have a working cell phone?

Total
Yes
No
Don't Know
Refused

Recent Mover
100% (201)
49% (99)
50% (100)
0% (0)
1% (2)

Stayer
100% (203)
50% (102)
50% (101)
0% (0)
0% (0)

Q21b. How many working cell phones do you or people in your family have?
Total
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
98 (Don't Know)
99 (Refused)

Recent Mover
100% (101)
57% (58)
31% (31)
7% (7)
2% (2)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
1% (1)
2% (2)

Stayer
100% (102)
59% (60)
36% (37)
2% (2)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
2% (2)
1% (1)

Q21c. Of all the telephone calls that you or your family receives, are...
Recent Mover
100% (101)

Stayer
100% (102)

1 All or almost all calls
received on cell phones

36% (36)

21% (21)

2 Some received on cell
phones and some on
regular phones

37% (37)

45% (46)

3 Very few or none on cell
phones
25% (25)
8 Don't Know
1% (1)
9 Refused
2% (2)*
*The total is greater than 100% due to rounding.

31% (32)
3% (3)
0% (0)

Total

4. CONCLUSION
All four markets surveyed demonstrated AAPOR response rates above 40% with Reno-Sparks at
42.9% and Minot at 55.4%. Table 13 below summarizes all four markets and their AAPOR
rates.
TABLE 13
Overall AAPOR Response Rate 3 Results
AAPOR Response
Rate3

AAPOR Cooperation
Rate3

AAPOR
Refusal
Rate3

AAPOR
Contact
Rate3

GulfportBiloxi

54.6

85.3

9.9

90.1

New Orleans

50.9

86.8

10.5

96.9

Minot

55.4

90.4

98.3

Reno-Sparks

42.9

89.4

94.2

Market

To reach the respondents MDAC utilized the services of the GENESYS System (Marketing
Systems Group, Inc.) to generate sample. To generate the sample the GENESYS System
employed a list-assisted random digit dialing methodology. List-assisted refers to the use of
commercial lists of directory-listed telephone numbers to increase the likelihood of dialing
household residences. This method gives unlisted telephone numbers the same chance to be
selected as directory-listed numbers. The system utilized a database consisting of all residential
telephone exchanges, working bank information, and various geographic service parameters such
as state, county, Primary ZIP code, etc. and provided a representative sample as every potential
telephone number within the defined sample frame had a known and equal probability of
selection.
Reported are separate market analysis sections where the 40 th percentile fair market rents are
calculated separately for 1, 2 and where relevant, 3 bedroom units for all renters, for recent
movers, and for stayers. The average rents vary by market. All 4 survey areas resulted in the
interval half-widths being within 5% of the estimate for the blended rate of recent movers (4.0%
Gulfport-Biloxi, 3.7% in New Orleans, 4.1% in Minot, and 3.6% in Reno-Sparks).
The recent mover 40 th percentile Fair Market Rent (blended) was utilized for all Markets. The
Fair Market rent for Gulfport-Biloxi was $741.26 with a standard error of $15.07 and a
percentage difference of half width around the estimate of 4.0%. For New Orleans the Fair
Market Rent is $860.42 with a standard error of $16.15 and a percentage difference of half width
around the estimate of 3.7%. For Minot (non-metropolitan) the Fair Market Rent is $622.69 with
a standard error of $12.89 and a percentage difference of half width around the estimate of 4.1%,
29

while for Reno-Sparks the Fair Market Rent is $842.46 with a standard error of $15.34 and a
percentage difference of half width around the estimate of 3.6%.
In addition to determining the Fair Market Rent for each area, we were concerned about whether
the survey suffered from any bias from having landline-only sample and no cell phone sample.
Therefore, we added three cell phone questions to this survey. In Question 21, we asked three
questions about cell phone possession and use. In Question 21 (a) we asked if the respondent or
anyone in their family had a working cell phone. In Question 21 (b) we asked how many cell
phones the family possessed, and in Question 21 (c) we asked to what extent the respondent and
their families used the cell phone for their calls. The results were statistically significant only in
Minot. The results showed that recent movers in the Minot market were more likely to have cell
phones, had more cell phones in the household on average, and were more likely to use their cell
phone for all or almost all their calls.
For Question 21(a), one market showed more than a 10% difference in the likelihood to use a
cell phone. Minot recent movers were 13% more like to use a cell phone. New Orleans showed
a small percentage difference with recent movers 4% more likely to use a cell phone. For
Gulfport-Biloxi and Reno-Sparks, there was only a small difference with Stayers more likely to
use a cell phone. For Reno-Sparks, one percent of Stayers were more likely to use a cell phone,
and for Gulport-Biloxi, three percent of Stayers were more likely to use a cell phone. As stated
above though, statistically significant results occurred only in Minot.
For Question 21(b), for those who had cell phones, almost 90% of all respondent families had
one or two cell phones. For Gulfport-Biloxi, 96% recent movers and 91% of stayers had one or
two cell phones among family members. For New Orleans, 90% Recent Movers and 92% of
Stayers had one or two cell phones among family members. For Minot, 87% of Recent Movers
and 95% of Stayers had one or two cell phones among family members. In Minot, recent movers
also had more cell phones in their household, on average, than did stayers (1.65 cell phones for
recent movers and 1.33 cell phones for stayers). For Reno-Sparks, 88% of Recent Movers and
95% of Stayers had one or two cell phones among family members. Again, as in 21(a),
statistically significant results occurred only the Minot.
For Question 21(c), between seven and fifteen percent more Recent Movers than Stayers used
their cell phone for all or almost all their phone calls. In Gulfport-Biloxi, 26% of Recent Movers
and 19% of Stayers said they used their cell phone for all or almost all of their calls. In New
Orleans, 31% of Recent Movers and 21% of Stayers said they used their cell phones for all or
almost all of their calls. In Minot, 34% Recent Movers and 22% of Stayers said they used their
cell phones for all or almost all of their calls, while in Reno-Sparks 36% Recent Movers and
21% of Stayers said they used their cell phones for all or almost all of their calls. However, as in
21(a) and 21(b), statistically significant results occurred only in Minot.
Determining the level of bias occurring in utilizing a landline-only sample, and not including a
cell-phone sample, can be addressed by further research beyond the scope of this survey. We
include these figures to take an initial step in assisting HUD in determining the level of cell
phone use by landline respondents.
The results of the cell phone questions show noteworthy data. The results show that
approximately half the landline respondents also use cell phones. Even though we contacted
people on landline phones, approximately 26%-36% of recent movers said they use their cell
30

phone for all or almost all of their calls. In contrast, only 19% to 22% of Stayers said they use
their cell phone for all or almost all of their calls. In addition, this survey does not include
respondents who use only their cell phone. We do not capture the level of sample bias resulting
from respondents who use only their cell phone because cell phone-only users were not
surveyed.
These cell phone results raise an important issue for HUD to address. As cell phone usage
continues to grow, HUD needs to determine if they should add cell phone sample to future
surveys. As we can see from the above numbers, recent movers are more likely to use their cell
phone for all or almost all calls. If approximately 33% of renters use only their cell phone as
reported by Blumberg,5 and another 26%-36% of recent movers who have landline phones use
their cell phone for all or almost all of their calls as shown in our above results, then conceivably
in a worst-case scenario HUD could be missing up to 59% to 69% of recent mover eligible
respondents by continuing with a landline-only sample.6 For stayers, if approximately 33% of
renters use only their cell phone and another 19% to 21% use their cell phones for all or almost
all of their calls as shown in our above results, then conceivably in a worst-case scenario HUD
could be missing up to 52% to 54% of stayer eligible respondents.7
On the other hand, those are worst-case scenarios. HUD’s ability to acquire representativeness
with landline-only samples might not be quite a problem in some markets. Cell phone
penetration levels vary considerably by market. Some markets have high cell phone ownership
concentrations, while others do not. Cell phone usage may be a concern for HUD’s ability to
acquire representative samples in some markets, but not in others. If markets have a high cell
phone penetration and usage, then HUD may have cause for concern about sample
representativeness. However, if markets do not have a high cell phone penetration and usage,
then a landline-only sample may still be the most effective and efficient means for gathering
data.
Additionally, if either recent movers or stayers are much more likely than the other to use cell
phones, we may need to concern ourselves with the potential bias being much larger for one
group than the other. In our results above, three of the four markets showed little difference
between the groups. In Minot though, recent movers were significantly more likely to have and
use cell phones. These results could cause increased concern about the representativeness of
Minot’s recent-mover data. In the future, HUD should consider the appropriateness of
supplementing the survey with cell phone sample when this occurs.
In conclusion, HUD may wish to know the cell phone penetration levels and usage patterns (i.e.,
how often the cell phone is used to make and receive all or almost all calls) in advance for the
markets HUD wishes to survey. Having this information in advance may allow HUD to
reasonably decide whether to add cell phone sample or continue with a landline-only sample in
each particular survey market.

Blumberg SJ, Luke JV, Division of Health Interview Statistics, National Center for Health Statistics, Davidson G,
Davern M, Yu T, and Soderberg K, the State Health Access Data Assistance Center, University of Minnesota.
National Health Statistics Report Number 14, March 2009.
6
This is a worst-case scenario with the 33% figure based upon Blumberg’s study from March 2009.
7
The cell phone questions asked in this HUD survey were the same questions Blumberg asked in his survey.

In addition to HUD making the decision on its own, one other factor to consider is that the Office
of Management and Budget (OMB) could affect whether or not HUD adds cell phone sample.
OMB must give its approval before a survey can begin. Should HUD need OMB approval for
future surveys, OMB might require HUD to start including cell phone sample in all future
surveys. HUD should be aware of this possibility.

APPENDIX

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development FY2008/9 FMR Area-specific
Survey Questionnaire (Gulfport-Biloxi, MS,
New Orleans, LA, Minot, ND)

Introduction and Screening: Hello, my name is _________. I am calling on behalf of HUD,
the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. HUD is conducting a study of rental
housing costs in your area. This information will help the government provide housing assistance
to people who need it. The survey will only take a few minutes of your time; all of the
information you provide will be confidential, and your participation is voluntary. This call may
be monitored for quality assurance.
1.

Is this a residential household, such as an apartment, a house, or a mobile home? [
NOTE: It is NOT a dormitory, hospital room, nursing home, assisted-living
facility, barracks or cellular telephone.]
1) Yes
2) No [Terminate and Thank]

2a.

Are you renting this property, or do you own it?
1) Rent this property
2) Own this property [Terminate and Thank]

2b.

How long have you lived at this residence?
1) Less than 24 months [Increment recent mover quota cell]
2) 24 months or more [Increment non-recent mover quota cell]
8) Don’t Know [Terminate and Thank]
9) Refused [Terminate and Thank]

I need to speak with someone 18 years old or older who knows about your
household’s housing costs. Would that be you?
1) Yes [Skip to 5]
2) No

Is someone who does know available to come to the phone?
1) Yes [Read introduction for second respondent]
2 ) No [Schedule a callback for a time when someone will be available.
Make sure to ask for the first name of the person to ask for at that time.]

Introduction for Second Respondent
Hello, my name is __________. I am calling on behalf of the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development. We are conducting a telephone survey on housing costs in your area. The
person I just spoke with said you could help me with several questions about your housing costs.
This information will help the government provide housing assistance to people who need it. The
survey will only take a few minutes of your time; all of the information you provide will be
confidential, and your participation is voluntary. This call maybe monitored for quality assurance.
5.

First, how many bedrooms do you have? That is, how many bedrooms would your
residence be advertised as having if it were for rent? [NOTE: Include rooms that are
meant to be bedrooms even though they may not be used as bedrooms now -bedrooms converted to dens, storage areas, etc.]
1 One
2 Two
3 Three [If metropolitan area, terminate and thank. If non-metropolitan area,
continue and collect bedroom size.]
4 Four or more [Terminate and Thank]
5 None; efficiency [Terminate and Thank]
NOTE: For metropolitan areas only 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom units are surveyed.
For non-metropolitan areas, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom units are
surveyed.
6. Do you consider this your permanent residence, where you could live all year, or a
vacation or seasonal residence?
1 Permanent residence
2 Vacation/seasonal residence [Terminate and Thank]
8 Don’t Know [Terminate and Thank]
9 Refused [Terminate and Thank]
6a. Apart from utility costs, does this unit rent for the same amount every month of the
year?
1 Yes [Skip to 7]
2 No
8 Don’t Know {Skip to 7]]
9 Refused [Skip to 7]

Q6B. Why is that? Is it because: [INTERVIEWER NOTE: PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE
LIST]
1 Owners charge different rents during the summer or winter vacation season? [If Yes,
terminate and thank]
2 Owners charge different rents during the school year? [If Yes, terminate and thank]
3 Because of a variation in utility costs, such as air conditioning or heating?)[If Yes,
continue with Q7]
7 Or some other reason? [Skip to 6B_O]
8 DON’T KNOW [Terminate and Thank]
9 REFUSED [Terminate and Thank]
“In this question we are trying to make sure the rent can vary from month to month and it is not
because of changes in utility costs. Those that answer yes to number 3 and number 7 will
continue with the survey, for all other responses, the survey will be terminated.”
6B_O. Other specify. [Open-ended box with 200 characters, Go to Q7]
7. Is your building owned by a public housing authority?
1. Yes [Terminate and Thank]
2. No
8. Don’t Know [Terminate and Thank]
9. Refused [Terminate and Thank]
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen. “In this question we are
trying to determine if the rental unit is owned and operated by a local public housing authority.
A public housing authority is a local housing agency that owns and operates rental units which
are rented to low income individuals or families.”
Press “enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.
8. Is your residence owned by a relative?
1. Yes [Terminate and Thank]
2. No
8. Don’t Know [Terminate and Thank]
9. Refused [Terminate and Thank]
9. Was the building you live in built within the last two years?
1. Yes- built within last two years [Terminate and Thank]
2. No - over 2 years old
8. Don’t Know [Terminate (after probing)]
9. Refused [Terminate (after probing)]

10. Do you perform any work for your landlord in exchange for a reduction in rent?
1. Yes
2. No [Skip to 12]
8. Don’t Know [Skip to 12]
9. Refused [Skip to 12]
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen.
“In this question we are trying to determine if the rent is reduced in return for doing work for the
landlord. The survey collects information about market rents.”
Press “enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.
11. Does this involve more than maintenance and upkeep of your residence?
1. Yes [Terminate and Thank]
2. No
8. Don’t Know [Terminate and Thank]
9. Refused [Terminate and Thank]
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen.
“In this question we are trying to determine if the work performed for the landlord is more than
simple basic maintenance or upkeep of the residence. For example, mowing the lawn would be
simple maintenance. Repairs to the building would not be simple maintenance.”
Press “enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.
12. Does another family or individual live in the unit who pays part of the rent?
1. Yes
2. No [Go To Q16]
8. Don’t Know
9. Refused
13.
How much is your monthly rent? Please do not include separate parking fees, or utility
costs.
[INTERVIEWER NOTE: We are trying to determine the market rent for this unit by adding the
amount the respondent and others pay each month. Certain utilities may be included in the rent.
If the tenant pays separately for any utilities, do not add them to the rent.]
1

Amount Given _____[Round to the nearest dollar] [Skip to Q14]

Don’t Know [Probe: “Is there someone else in the household who could
tell me about your housing cost?” If no, terminate. If yes, read
introduction for other respondent and go to 13B]

Refused

[Read Refusal Statement]

REFUSAL STATEMENT:
The results of this survey will be used by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development to ensure that rental assistance is provided as cost-effectively as possible to area
residents who most need it.
INTRODUCTION for OTHER RESPONDENT:
Hello, my name is __________. I am calling on behalf of HUD, the U.S. Department of
Housing and Urban Development. We are conducting a telephone survey on housing costs in
your area. The person I just spoke with said you could help me with several questions about
your housing costs. This information will help the government provide housing assistance to
people who need it. The survey is brief. Your participation would be voluntary, and all the
information you provide is confidential. This call maybe monitored for quality assurance.
13B. How much is your monthly rent? Please do not include separate parking fees, or utility
costs.
1. Amount Given ______ [Round to the nearest dollar]
8. Don’t Know [Terminate]
9. Refused [Read Refusal Statement]
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen.
“In this question we are trying to determine the total monthly rent of the unit. If individuals
share a rental unit and do not know the full monthly amount, record the amount for each
respondent. If the respondent pays separately for utilities or parking, do not include these
amounts. If some of the utilities and/or parking are included in the rent, then report the total rent
including those amounts that are included.
Press “enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.
14. How much rent do other people pay for this unit?
1. Amount Given______________ [Round to nearest dollar]
8. DK
[[Probe: “Is there someone else in the household who could tell me about
their housing cost?” If no, terminate. If yes, read “Introduction for Other Respondent” and enter
amount on line 1].
9. Refused [Read refusal statement]
15.
I figure that the total monthly rent for your residence for everyone who lives here,
including ALL assistance AND/OR subsidies is __________________________
[ADD Q13A+Q14 or Q13B+Q14]. Does that sound right to you?
1
8
9

Yes
[Go to Q17]
No
[Go back to Q13]
Don’t Know/Refused

16.

How much is the total monthly rent for your residence? Please do not include any
separate parking or utility costs?
1
8
9

17a.

Amount Given _____[Round to the nearest dollar]
Don’t Know [Probe: “Is there someone else in the household who could
tell me about your housing cost?” If no, terminate. If yes, read
introduction for other respondent and enter amount on line 1]
Refused
[Read Refusal Statement]

Is part of your rent, or any one who lives with you, paid for by a federal, state or local
program?
1
2
8
9

Yes
No
[Go to Q18]
Don’t Know [Go to Q18]
Refused
[Go to Q18]

"In this question we are trying to determine if the respondent's current rent is subsidized. Many
renters receive assistance in the form of a subsidy payment through federal, state, or local
programs. The amount of assistance depends on income. In shared rental units, respond YES if
one or more of the individuals in the unit are subsidized. "
17b.

How much would the monthly rent be without the housing assistance?

[INTERVIEWER NOTE: This amount should include housing assistance for the respondent
plus anyone else living in the rental unit.]
1
8
9

Amount Given__________
Don’t Know [Ask if anyone else in the house would know]
Refused

"In this question we are trying to determine the total housing subsidy this rental unit receives
from any sources. In shared rental units, make sure to add the subsidy amount for all subsidized
individuals.” A renter is more likely to know the market rent of a unit than the subsidy amount,
which is why we are asking the question in this way. Subsides are often paid directly to the
landlord.
18.

Which one of the following best describes the structure where you live:
[NOTE:
PLEASE READ LIST]
1 Apartment building with 5 or more units
2 Single family dwelling (detached)
3 Duplex
4 Apartment building with 2 to 4 units
5 Townhouse or row house
6 Mobile home
7 Other, specify _________ [Go to 18_O]
8 Don’t Know [Skip to 20a]
9 Refused [Skip to 20a]
39

18_O: Other specify: (Open-end box with 100 characters) [Go to 19]
19

Is this unit detached, or is it attached to other units?
1 Detached
2 Attached
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused

20a. Is this the only landline telephone number that rings at your residence? [We are asking
about other residential telephone landlines, not telephone extensions with the same number.]
1 Yes [Skip to 21]
2 No
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen.
In this question we are trying to determine the number of different residential telephone numbers
serving the residence.
We are not asking about the number of phones (extensions). We are asking about the number of
different residential telephone lines.
Press “enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.
20b.

How many different Residential landline telephone numbers, not extension phones, ring
into your household?

Q21a. Do you or anyone in your family have a working cell phone?
1 Yes
2 No (SKIP TO Q22)
8 Don’t know
9 Refused
Q21b. How many working cell phones do you or people in your family have?
(1-10 cell phones) ____
DON’T KNOW = 98
REFUSED = 99
40

Q21c. Of all the telephone calls that you or your family receives, are...
[READ LIST]
1
2
3
8
9

All or almost all calls received on cell phones
Some received on cell phones and some on regular phones
Very few or none on cell phones
Don’t know
Refused

22.
Do you pay separately for utilities such as heat, air conditioning, lights, water, cooking
fuel or trash collection? [If no, PROBE: “Do you pay any utility bills?”]
1 Yes
2 No [Go to Q35]
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused
23.

Is the cost of heating included in your rent, or do you pay separately for heating fuel?
1 Included in rent [Skip to 25]
2 Pay separately
3 Unit does not have heating system [Skip to 25]
8 Don’t Know [Skip to 25]
9 Refused [Skip to 25]

24.

What primary type of fuel do you use for heating?
1 Electricity
2 Natural gas
3 Bottled gas (propane, butane, petrolane)
4 Fuel oil
7 Other, specify ___________
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused
24_O: Other specify. Open end box- 100 characters.
25.

Is air conditioning included in your rent, or do you pay separately for air conditioning?
1 Included in Rent [Skip to 27]
2 Pay separately
3 Unit does not have air conditioning [Skip to 27]
8 Don’t Know [Skip to 27]
9 Refused [Skip to 27]

26.

What primary type of utility do you use for air conditioning?
1 Electricity
2 Natural gas
7 Other___________
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused
41

26_O Other open end (25 characters)
27.

Is cooking fuel included in your rent, or do you pay separately for cooking fuel?
1 Included in Rent [Skip to 29]
2 Pay Separately
3 Unit does not have a cooking facility [Skip to 29]
8 Don’t Know [Skip to 29]
9 Refused [Skip to 29]

28.

What primary type of utility do you use for cooking?
1 Electricity
2 Natural gas
3 Bottled gas (Propane, butane, petrolane)
7 Other, specify ________
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused
28_O: Other open-end box (25 characters)
29
Is the cost of lighting and refrigeration included in your rent, or do you pay separately for
lighting or refrigeration?
1 Included in rent
2 Pay separately
3 Unit does not have lighting or refrigeration
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen.
“In this question we are trying to determine if the respondent pays separately for electricity to
power the lights and refrigerator. We are not asking if they rent a refrigerator.” Press
“enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.
30.

Do you pay a separate monthly rental fee for a range or refrigerator?
1 Yes
2 No
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused

31.

Is hot water included in your rent, or do you pay separately for hot water?
1 Included in rent [Skip to 33]
2 Pay separately
3 Unit does not have hot water [Skip to 33]
8 Don’t Know [Skip to 33]
9 Refused [Skip to 33]

32.

What primary type of utility do you use for heating water?
1 Electricity
2 Natural gas
3 Bottled gas (propane, butane, petrolane)
4 Fuel oil
7 Other, specify _______
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused

33. Is a water or sewage fee included in your rent, or do you pay separately for water and
sewage?
1 Included in rent
2 Pay separately
3 Unit does not have water and sewage
4 Water and sewage supplied by city
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused
34.

Is trash collection included in your rent, or do you pay separately for trash collection?
1 Included in rent
2 Pay separately
3 Unit does not have trash collection
4 Trash collection supplied by city
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused

35.

Location: Would you please tell me the county where your housing unit is

located?

Record Corresponding Code _________________
36.

Would you please tell me the city or town where your housing unit is located?
1 Record city or town _____________
9 Refused

37.

Could you please tell me your ZIP code? Record ZIP code ___________

38.
For verification purposes only, may I have your first name? [INTERVIEWER NOTE: If
the respondent is reluctant to give his/her name, please ask for his/her initials]
[SPECIFY:_________________________}
If the respondent is reluctant to even give his/her initials, please indicate if the respondent was
male or female (M or F) and that he/she refused.
Those are all the questions I have for you.
Thank you very much for cooperating with the survey.
43

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development FY2008/9 FMR Area-specific
Survey Questionnaire (Reno, NV)8

2a.

Are you renting this property, or do you own it?
1) Rent this property
2) Own this property [Terminate and Thank]

2b.

How long have you lived at this residence?
1. Less than 12 months
2. 12 months or more [Increment non-recent mover quota cell]
8. Don’t Know [Terminate and Thank]
9. Refused [Terminate and Thank]

2c.

Please tell me the month and year you moved into your current residence.
___Enter Month
98. Don't Know
99. Refused

____ Enter Year
9998 Don’t Know
9999 Refused

I need to speak with someone 18 years old or older who knows about your
household’s housing costs. Would that be you?
1 Yes [Skip to 5]
2 No
Is someone who does know available to come to the phone?
1) Yes [Read introduction for second respondent]
2 ) No [Schedule a callback for a time when someone will be available.
Make sure to ask for the first name of the person to ask for at that time.]

Questions 2b and 2c differ from the other markets’ questionnaire.

1 One
2 Two
3 Three [If metropolitan area, terminate and thank. If non-metropolitan area,
continue and collect bedroom size.]
4 Four or more [Terminate and Thank]
5 None; efficiency [Terminate and Thank]
NOTE: For metropolitan areas only 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom units are surveyed. For nonmetropolitan areas, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom units are surveyed.
6. Do you consider this your permanent residence, where you could live all year, or a
vacation or seasonal residence?
1 Permanent residence
2 Vacation/seasonal residence [Terminate and Thank]
8 Don’t Know [Terminate and Thank]
9 Refused [Terminate and Thank]
6a. Apart from utility costs, does this unit rent for the same amount every month of the
year?
1 Yes [Skip to 7]
2 No
8 Don’t Know {Skip to 7]]
9 Refused [Skip to 7]
Q6B. Why is that? Is it because: [INTERVIEWER NOTE: PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE
LIST]
1 Owners charge different rents during the summer or winter vacation season? [If Yes,
terminate and thank]
2 Owners charge different rents during the school year? [If Yes, terminate and thank]
3 Because of a variation in utility costs, such as air conditioning or heating?)[If Yes,
continue with Q7]
7 Or some other reason? [Skip to 6B_O]
8 DON’T KNOW [Terminate and Thank]
9 REFUSED [Terminate and Thank]
45

“In this question we are trying to make sure the rent can vary from month to month and it is not
because of changes in utility costs. Those that answer yes to number 3 and number 7 will
continue with the survey, for all other responses, the survey will be terminated.”
6B_O. Other specify. [Open-ended box with 200 characters, Go to Q7]
7. Is your building owned by a public housing authority?
1. Yes [Terminate and Thank]
2. No
8. Don’t Know [Terminate and Thank]
9. Refused [Terminate and Thank]
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen. “In this question we are
trying to determine if the rental unit is owned and operated by a local public housing authority.
A public housing authority is a local housing agency that owns and operates rental units which
are rented to low income individuals or families.”
Press “enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.
8. Is your residence owned by a relative?
1. Yes [Terminate and Thank]
2. No
8. Don’t Know [Terminate and Thank]
9. Refused [Terminate and Thank]
9. Was the building you live in built within the last two years?
1. Yes- built within last two years [Terminate and Thank]
2. No - over 2 years old
8. Don’t Know [Terminate (after probing)]
9. Refused [Terminate (after probing)]
10. Do you perform any work for your landlord in exchange for a reduction in rent?
1. Yes
2. No [Skip to 12]
8. Don’t Know [Skip to 12]
9. Refused [Skip to 12]
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen.
“In this question we are trying to determine if the rent is reduced in return for doing work for the
landlord. The survey collects information about market rents.”
Press “enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.

11. Does this involve more than maintenance and upkeep of your residence?
1. Yes [Terminate and Thank]
2. No
8. Don’t Know [Terminate and Thank]
9. Refused [Terminate and Thank]
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen.
“In this question we are trying to determine if the work performed for the landlord is more than
simple basic maintenance or upkeep of the residence. For example, mowing the lawn would be
simple maintenance. Repairs to the building would not be simple maintenance.”
Press “enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.
12. Does another family or individual live in the unit who pays part of the rent?
1. Yes
2. No [Go To Q16]
8. Don’t Know
9. Refused
13.
How much is your monthly rent? Please do not include separate parking fees, or utility
costs.
[INTERVIEWER NOTE: We are trying to determine the market rent for this unit by adding the
amount the respondent and others pay each month. Certain utilities may be included in the rent.
If the tenant pays separately for any utilities, do not add them to the rent.]
1

Amount Given _____[Round to the nearest dollar] [Skip to Q14]

Don’t Know [Probe: “Is there someone else in the household who could
tell me about your housing cost?” If no, terminate. If yes, read
introduction for other respondent and go to 13B]

Refused

[Read Refusal Statement]

13B. How much is your monthly rent? Please do not include separate parking fees, or utility
costs.
1. Amount Given ______ [Round to the nearest dollar]
8. Don’t Know [Terminate]
9. Refused [Read Refusal Statement]
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen.
“In this question we are trying to determine the total monthly rent of the unit. If individuals
share a rental unit and do not know the full monthly amount, record the amount for each
respondent. If the respondent pays separately for utilities or parking, do not include these
amounts. If some of the utilities and/or parking are included in the rent, then report the total rent
including those amounts that are included.
Press “enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.
14. How much rent do other people pay for this unit?
1. Amount Given______________ [Round to nearest dollar]
8. DK
[[Probe: “Is there someone else in the household who could tell me about
their housing cost?” If no, terminate. If yes, read “Introduction for Other Respondent” and enter
amount on line 1].
9. Refused [Read refusal statement]
15.
I figure that the total monthly rent for your residence for everyone who lives here,
including ALL assistance AND/OR subsidies is __________________________
[ADD Q13A+Q14 or Q13B+Q14]. Does that sound right to you?
1
8
9
16.

Yes
[Go to Q17]
No
[Go back to Q13]
Don’t Know/Refused

How much is the total monthly rent for your residence? Please do not include any
separate parking or utility costs?
1

Amount Given _____[Round to the nearest dollar]

Don’t Know [Probe: “Is there someone else in the household who could
tell me about your housing cost?” If no, terminate. If yes, read
introduction for other respondent and enter amount on line 1]

Refused

[Read Refusal Statement]

17a.

Is part of your rent, or any one who lives with you, paid for by a federal, state or local
program?
1
2
8
9

Yes
No
[Go to Q18]
Don’t Know [Go to Q18]
Refused
[Go to Q18]

How much would the monthly rent be without the housing assistance?

[INTERVIEWER NOTE: This amount should include housing assistance for the respondent
plus anyone else living in the rental unit.]
1
8
9

Amount Given__________
Don’t Know [Ask if anyone else in the house would know]
Refused

Which one of the following best describes the structure where you live:
[NOTE: PLEASE READ LIST]
1 Apartment building with 5 or more units
2 Single family dwelling (detached)
3 Duplex
4 Apartment building with 2 to 4 units
5 Townhouse or row house
6 Mobile home
7 Other, specify _________ [Go to 18_O]
8 Don’t Know [Skip to 20a]
9 Refused [Skip to 20a]

18_O: Other specify: (Open-end box with 100 characters) [Go to 19]
19

Is this unit detached, or is it attached to other units?
1 Detached
2 Attached
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused

How many different Residential landline telephone numbers, not extension phones, ring
into your household?

1 Amount Given ______
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused
* Help Screen available for this question, Press F1 to read this screen.
In this question we are trying to determine the number of different residential telephone numbers
serving the residence.
We are not asking about the number of phones. We are asking about the number of different
residential telephone lines.
Press “enter/return” to go back to the main body of the questionnaire.
Q21a. Do you or anyone in your family have a working cell phone?
1 Yes
2 No (SKIP TO Q22)
8 Don’t know
9 Refused
Q21b. How many working cell phones do you or people in your family have?
(1-10 cell phones) ____
DON’T KNOW = 98
REFUSED = 99
50

Q21c. Of all the telephone calls that you or your family receives, are...
[READ LIST]
1
2
3
8
9

All or almost all calls received on cell phones
Some received on cell phones and some on regular phones
Very few or none on cell phones
Don’t know
Refused

24.

26.

What primary type of utility do you use for air conditioning?
1 Electricity
2 Natural gas
7 Other___________
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused
26_O Other open end (25 characters)
51

27.

28.

Do you pay a separate monthly rental fee for a range or refrigerator?
1 Yes
2 No
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused

31.

32.

What primary type of utility do you use for heating water?
1 Electricity
2 Natural gas
52

3 Bottled gas (propane, butane, petrolane)
4 Fuel oil
7 Other, specify _______
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused
33. Is a water or sewage fee included in your rent, or do you pay separately for water and
sewage?
1 Included in rent
2 Pay separately
3 Unit does not have water and sewage
4 Water and sewage supplied by city
8 Don’t Know
9 Refused
34.

35.

Location: Would you please tell me the county where your housing unit is

located?

Record Corresponding Code _________________
36.

Would you please tell me the city or town where your housing unit is located?
1 Record city or town _____________
9 Refused

37.

Could you please tell me your ZIP code? Record ZIP code ___________

Utility costs in the four markets.

Code
HEATD
N1
HEATD
N2
HEATD
N3
HEATD
B1
HEATD
B2
HEATD
B3
HEATD
F1
HEATD
F2
HEATD
F3
HEATD
E1
HEATD
E2
HEATD
E3
HEATD
O1
HEATD
O2
HEATD
O3
HEATA
N1
HEATA
N2
HEATA
N3
HEATA
B1
HEATA
B2
HEATA
B3

New
Orleans,
LA

GulfportBiloxi,
MS

RenoSparks,
NV
MSA

ND:
Ward
County

Detached Natural Gas - 1BR

Detached Natural Gas - 2BR

118

Detached Natural Gas - 3BR

144

Detached LPG - 1BR

234

Detached LPG - 2BR

301

Detached LPG - 3BR

117

368

Detached Fuel Oil - 1BR

315

Detached Fuel Oil - 2BR

405

Detached Fuel Oil - 3BR

100

495

Detached Electric - 1 BR

Detached Electric - 2 BR

108

Detached Electric - 3 BR

132

Detached Other - 1BR

Detached Other - 2BR

118

Detached Other - 3BR

144

Attached Natural Gas - 1BR

Attached Natural Gas - 2BR

Attached Natural Gas - 3BR

108

Attached LPG - 1BR

169

Attached LPG - 2BR

218

Attached LPG - 3BR

117

266

Utility

Code
HEATA
F1
HEATA
F2
HEATA
F3
HEATA
E1
HEATA
E2
HEATA
E3
HEATA
O1
HEATA
O2
HEATA
O3
AC1
AC2
AC3
COOKG
1
COOKG
2
COOKG
3
COOKB
1
COOKB
2
COOKB
3
COOKE
1
COOKE
2
COOKE
3
LIGHT1
LIGHT2
LIGHT3
HOTW
N1

New
Orleans,
LA

GulfportBiloxi,
MS

RenoSparks,
NV
MSA

Attached Fuel Oil - 1BR

233

Attached Fuel Oil - 2BR

299

Attached Fuel Oil - 3BR

100

366

Attached Electric - 1 BR

Attached Electric - 2 BR

Attached Electric - 3 BR

102

Attached Other - 1BR

Attached Other - 2BR

Attached Other - 3BR
Air Conditioning - 1BR
Air Conditioning - 2BR
Air Conditioning - 3BR

0
31
38
49

0
50
10
15

0
16
20
25

108
9
9
9

Cooking - Natural Gas - 1BR

Cooking - Natural Gas - 2BR

Cooking - Natural Gas - 3BR

Cooking - LPG - 1BR

Cooking - LPG - 2BR

Cooking - LPG - 3BR

Cooking - Electric - 1BR

Cooking - Electric - 2BR

Cooking - Electric - 3BR
Main Electric - 1 BR
Main Electric - 2 BR
Main Electric - 3 BR
Hot Water - Natural Gas 1BR

9
16
18
20

7
49
50
52

15
26
32
38

8
24
31
37

Utility

ND:
Ward
County

Code
HOTW
N2
HOTW
N3
HOTW
B1
HOTW
B2
HOTW
B3
HOTWF
1
HOTWF
2
HOTWF
3
HOTWE
1
HOTWE
2
HOTWE
3
HOTW
O1
HOTW
O2
HOTW
O3
SEWER
1
SEWER
2
SEWER
3
TRASH
1
TRASH
2
TRASH
3
RANGE
1
RANGE
2

New
Orleans,
LA

GulfportBiloxi,
MS

RenoSparks,
NV
MSA

Hot Water - LPG - 1BR

Hot Water - LPG - 2BR

Hot Water - LPG - 3BR

Hot Water - Fuel Oil - 1BR

Hot Water - Fuel Oil - 2BR

Hot Water - Fuel Oil - 3BR

Hot Water - Electric - 1BR

Hot Water - Electric - 2BR

Hot Water - Electric - 3BR

Hot Water - Other - 1BR

Hot Water - Other - 2BR

Hot Water - Other - 3BR

Water and Sewer - 1BR

104

Water and Sewer - 2BR

104

Water and Sewer - 3BR

104

Trash - 1BR

Trash - 2BR

Trash - 3BR
Rental for Range and Refrig.
- 1 BR
Rental for Range and Refrig.
- 2 BR

Utility
Hot Water - Natural Gas 2BR
Hot Water - Natural Gas 3BR

ND:
Ward
County

Code
RANGE
3

Utility
Rental for Range and Refrig.
- 3 BR

New
Orleans,
LA

GulfportBiloxi,
MS

RenoSparks,
NV
MSA

ND:
Ward
County
0

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