What Apartment Amenities Matter Most When Renting in the City vs. the Suburbs

Sure, location is often top priority when renting, but apartment amenities are not far behind. Whether you’re renting in the heart of a busy city or settling into the calm of the suburbs, certain features can make or break your rental experience.

For example, renting in a city has its own appeal, like walkable neighborhoods, busy nightlife, fast-paced lifestyles, and proximity to work or school. Urban rentals are typically great options for young professionals and students — anyone who loves being in the center of the action. But they often come with compromises like smaller spaces.

On the flip side, if you prioritize more space and a quiet atmosphere, look into suburban renting. Typically, people who want a slower pace of life, like families and remote workers, are drawn to the suburbs. Renters here usually get more square footage for their money, and they tend to value different kinds of amenities than their city-dwelling counterparts.

To help you decide what place is best for you, let’s break down the apartment amenities that matter most when renting in the city versus the suburbs.

Top apartment amenities for city renters

1. Proximity to public transit

One of the biggest perks of city living is access to reliable public transportation. For example, subways, buses, and commuter trains are lifelines in urban areas where owning a car may not be practical.

Why it matters: For city renters, being within walking distance of a transit stop can save hundreds of dollars a month on gas, parking, and car maintenance. Plus, it cuts down on commute time — an important consideration for busy professionals or students.

Tip: When apartment hunting in the city, always check how close the nearest transit options are and how frequent the service is during peak hours. If you’ve found a place you like, try taking the bus or metro to work as an experiment to see how long it takes.

2. In-unit laundry or on-site facilities

Lugging bags of laundry down the block to a laundromat isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time. That’s why having access to in-unit or at least on-site laundry is a major apartment amenity for urban dwellers.

Why it matters: Convenience is key in the city. With busy schedules and less living space, renters don’t want to waste time or energy dealing with laundry offsite.

Tip: Prioritize units with in-unit washers and dryers if possible, or make sure the building has clean, safe, and easily accessible laundry facilities.

3. Rooftop terraces and resident lounges

In cities where green space is limited and private outdoor areas are rare, shared building amenities like rooftop terraces and resident lounges offer a huge lifestyle boost. And not just because you can get some fresh air and relax without going anywhere.

Why it matters: Rooftop terraces give renters a place to unwind, entertain, or enjoy skyline views without leaving home. They can also be perfect for socializing with neighbors or working from home in a more inspiring setting. Resident lounges often provide Wi-Fi, comfy seating, and sometimes even coffee bars or coworking setups — ideal for remote workers and students.

Tip: If you value outdoor relaxation or want flexible work-from-home options, ask about access to the rooftop and lounge areas. Some buildings host events on their rooftops, too, so you’ll want to know if that’s part of the living experience.

Top apartment amenities for suburban renters

1. Private outdoor space

Unlike the city, the suburbs often offer more room to breathe. That’s why private outdoor space, like patios, balconies, or even small yards, is a sought-after apartment amenity in suburban areas.

Why it matters: Outdoor space gives renters room to relax, garden, grill, or enjoy fresh air. It’s especially appealing for families with kids or renters with pets.

Tip: If you’re moving to the suburbs, look for apartments that offer some form of private outdoor access. You’ll appreciate it more than you think, especially in spring and summer.

2. Garage or reserved parking

Parking in the suburbs is typically easier than in the city, but that doesn’t mean it’s guaranteed. Suburban renters often still need a car, so dedicated parking becomes an important amenity.

Why it matters: Having a garage or reserved parking spot means you won’t waste time hunting for street parking, especially in winter or late at night. It also helps protect your car from weather and vandalism.

Tip: Make sure your lease clearly states whether parking is included, and whether it’s assigned, covered, or comes at an extra cost.

3. Family-friendly community features

Many people move to the suburbs for a more family-friendly lifestyle. Apartment amenities like playgrounds, community pools, and access to quality schools can make suburban living even more attractive.

Why it matters: These shared features encourage socialization, foster a sense of community, and provide safe spaces for children to play. Plus, being in a good school district can be a gamechanger for families with kids.

Tip: Check out the neighborhood’s school ratings and ask about family-focused amenities when touring suburban complexes.

How to decide which amenities matter most to you

At the end of the day, the best apartment amenities for you will depend on your lifestyle, priorities, and future plans.

If you’re someone who values convenience, nightlife, and being close to work or school, city renting might be your best bet. Just make sure you focus on security, access to public transportation, and in-unit conveniences.

If you’re looking for more space, a quieter environment, and features that support a family-oriented lifestyle, suburban rentals are probably more your speed. You’ll want to prioritize outdoor areas, parking, and community-centered perks.

No matter where you choose to live, knowing which apartment amenities matter most will help you find a place that not only fits your budget but also your way of life.

Whether you’re trading skyline views for a backyard or swapping a garage for a subway card, remember that renting is more than just four walls. In fact, apartment living is about creating a home that fits your needs. So, take your time, do your homework, and focus on the apartment amenities that will truly make a difference in your daily life.