In fact, only 1,065 tenants in regulated apartments ended up qualifying for extensions. Some predicted an even higher number. After deregulation, however, only 2,345 applied, of which 1,545 were accepted. Some households undoubtedly chose not to apply, but the number of applicants was still significantly lower than many would have predicted. It appears either that the demographic profile of renters in controlled units changed, or some respondents had underestimated their income.
Estimates are available for the most heavily regulated city, Cambridge.
Using computer mapping, a 1992 study by Goetze matched the Election Commission list of residents with rent-control addresses in Cambridge and came up with some surprising conclusions. In rent-controlled condominiums, over 70 percent were in these occupations. Thus, despite the fact that both Abt and Goetze found incomes somewhat higher, on average, for households not under rent control, substantial benefits were going to the well off. This is similar to many areas in Manhattan below 96th Street. About 70 percent of the benefits in the form of lower rents accrue to those living in Manhattan below 96th Street.