Top 10 Most In-Demand Cities for Renters in the Northeast

From the lights of Times Square to the cobblestone streets of Boston, the Northeast region is a captivating blend of cities with unique vibes. Whether you crave round-the-clock action or small-town charm, there’s a place for you to call home here.

Searches on RentCafe.com in 2023 show that the Northeast offers a stellar lineup of in-demand locations for renters. From parks to pizza, sports to seafood, these cities rack up the points that renters want most.

Grab a coffee and get comfy as we unveil the cities in the Northeast that are most sought-after by renters. With an eclectic mix of metro hotspots, university hotbeds and neighborhoods on the rise, our top 10 provides plenty of incentive to start packing.

1. Queens, NY

The number one most in-demand city for renters in the Northeast is… a borough, actually: Queens, NY! New York City’s largest borough by land area edges out the competition by giving renters awesome dining diversity, a creative culture scene, and family-friendly residential areas with backyard space. Plus, let’s not forget the easy transportation into Manhattan, two major nearby airports, beaches along the Rockaway Peninsula, and a somewhat more affordable lifestyle than Manhattan and Brooklyn. In addition, renters can pick from an array of unique and diverse communities scattered throughout Queens, which will allow them to find a niche that fits their lifestyle.

2. Buffalo, NY

Next up is Buffalo, NY. Also known as “The City of Good Neighbors,” it’s one of the friendliest and most welcoming cities in the Northeast. Buffalo offers renters outstanding quality of life perks including charming walkable neighborhoods, a lively presence of arts and music, and tasty local food specialties like wings and beef on weck. Outdoor access to the incredible Niagara Falls, and super affordable costs of living are other great gains for those living here.

3. The Bronx, NY

The Bronx, another iconic borough in New York City, gets the bronze medal. Renters come to the Bronx for cheaper average rents than Manhattan and Brooklyn while remaining close to the gravitational pull of the Empire City. The borough also wins over renters through vibrant multicultural communities, major green spaces like the iconic New York Botanical Garden and the legendary Yankee Stadium for baseball fans.

4. Philadelphia

The number four most in-demand Northeast rental city is Philadelphia. Philly thrills apartment seekers with its affordability compared to other major metro areas as well as its thriving food scene and concentration of American history. Local renters also bask in the city’s concerts, pro sports matches, miles of outdoor recreation paths and buzzing downtown.

5. Boston

Coming in fifth is Boston, one of the cities in the Northeast that is constantly on renters’ radar. This historic college hub excels in education, sports, arts, culture and old-school charm. Many renters are drawn to Boston for its rich history, sample fresh seafood and quiet leafy neighborhoods, while sports enthusiasts can also experience a baseball game at Fenway Park.

6. Manhattan, NY

Manhattan — the symbolic, cultural, and economic heart of New York City — claims sixth place. Yes, rents in Manhattan tend to exceed the limits of most budgets. But many renters willingly pay a premium to soak up the incredible energy, endless entertainment options, world-famous landmarks, and culture that only Manhattan can provide.

7. Jersey City, NJ

Just making the cut at number seven is Jersey City, NJ. With knockout views of the Manhattan skyline coupled with quick public transit access, Jersey City gives renters big city perks at prices more aligned with smaller locations. Plus, many neighborhoods here are dotted with trendy cafés and restaurants, all within easy walking distance.

8. Newark, NJ

Next comes Newark, NJ, which offers renters the opportunity to enjoy the Big Apple’s attractions and entertainment but without the steep rent prices in Manhattan. Newark stands out for its cultural diversity, also boasting renowned performing arts venues, museums, riverfront green spaces for recreation and a major international airport.

9. Worcester, MA

The number nine spot of most in-demand cities in the Northeast belongs to Worcester, MA. This mid-sized New England city entices renters with affordability compared to other major urban centers in the region. At the same time, Worcester still provides easy access to nature while featuring a lively dining and arts downtown scene.

10. Providence, RI

Closing the list at number 10 is Providence, RI. As the capital and largest city in Rhode Island, Providence lures renters in with its historic charm, a dynamic food culture energized by students from institutions like Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design, reasonable rents, and the option for quick weekend trips to Newport‘s gorgeous beaches.

There you have it — the top 10 most in-demand cities in the Northeast. From the urban energy and towering skyscrapers of Manhattan and Queens to the laidback vibes of college towns like Providence and Newark, this region serves up incredible diversity when it comes to appealing places where to search for your next rental apartment.