I won New York City's affordable-housing lottery. Five years later, I feel trapped with my family in 800 square feet.

Tech Insider : Business
Woman on laptop sitting on couch with dog at her feet
Winning the New York City affordable housing lottery was one of the best things that ever happened to me. Five years, a husband, and a kid later, I feel like I have no choice but to stay.

Caralynn Matassa

I toured a Chicago rental to see how it compared to my $2,200-a-month NYC apartment. It was more than twice the size for the same price.

Tech Insider : Travel, Business
A composite image of a marble modern bathroom and the exterior of a rectangular, modern condo building with snow in the front yard
Business Insider's reporter toured a Chicago rental.

Joey Hadden/Business Insider

When I became a 'DINK,' my apartment in NYC got a major upgrade. I'm paying $150 less a month on rent and now have a backyard.

Tech Insider
Couple standing outside, looking directly at the camera.

Clifford Prince King for BI

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