In response to California’s escalating housing crisis, some residents are turning to an unconventional solution: living in compact sleeping pods. These pods, measuring a snug 3.5 feet wide and 4 feet tall, are just large enough to accommodate a twin mattress. Despite their small size, they come equipped with modern amenities such as charging stations, LED lights, and individual climate control systems.

While the monthly cost of these pods ranges from $500 to $900, they offer a more affordable alternative to traditional housing options. For comparison, the median rent for a studio apartment in Bakersfield is $995, while in San Francisco and Palo Alto, it’s $2,200 and $2,300 respectively.

The housing crisis in California has led to a significant exodus from the state, with approximately 500,000 more residents leaving than arriving over a recent two-year period. A recent poll revealed that about 40% of the state’s population is contemplating moving, with housing costs being a primary concern.

The founders of the pod living concept, James Stallworth and Christina Lennox, have firsthand experience with housing insecurity. They started their company three years ago and currently have 50 beds across three properties, with 49 of them already booked. Stallworth and Lennox plan to expand their business in an effort to help alleviate the housing crisis.

Read more at Los Angeles Times.