Living in the gender spectrum: Evidence from non-cisgender applications in the rental housing market

Abstract

We present novel evidence from the first correspondence study investigating the effect of individual non-cisgender signals in the housing market. In a preregistered trial, 800 fictitious letters were sent to rental apartment landlords in Sweden. Cismale applicants received fewer positive responses compared to ciswomen, while non-cisgender applicants had response rates that fell between those of ciswomen and cismen. The effects were strongest for apartments located outside of major cities. Non-cisgender applicants were also more often asked to clarify their gender. Additionally, cismale applicants were more likely to be addressed by the wrong name and were less frequently asked if they would bring any cohabitants.