Top 10 Most Popular Midwest Cities for Renters

Renters searching for their next home have distinctive needs and preferences when it comes to where they want to live. The Midwest is now the most in-demand region by renters, who appreciate the area’s diverse jobs and overall affordability, topped with a thriving world of culture and arts.

But which are the top Midwest cites when it comes to apartment hunting? We looked at searches on RentCafe.com in the past year and analyzed millions of renter interactions to determine the top Midwest cities generating the most rental interest and demand. Here’s our list:

1. Kansas City, MO
2. Cincinnati
3. Minneapolis
4. Overland Park, KS
5. Detroit
6. Chicago
7. Columbus, OH
8. Indianapolis
9. Omaha, NE
10. Cleveland

1. Kansas City, MO

In the number one spot is Kansas City, MO, famed for barbecue, jazz and more. Those interested in renting here are drawn by the affordable cost of living, job opportunities, and cultural attractions like museums and performing arts. The historic City Market and Country Club Plaza offer urban walkability with shopping and dining. In addition, renters seeking an active lifestyle will find plenty of biking trails, parks, sports teams, and outdoor recreation spots in the area.

2. Cincinnati

Next on the list of top Midwest cities on renters’ radar is Cincinnati, a charming city situated along the scenic Ohio River. Major employers and universities attract many young professionals looking to grow their careers, while families appreciate the kid-friendly attractions like the Cincinnati Zoo and Museum Center. The Over-the-Rhine neighborhood boasts refurbished Italianate architecture housing eclectic bars, breweries and dining for a vibrant urban experience.

3. Minneapolis

Minneapolis ranks highest in the Midwest outside Ohio and Missouri. The “City of Lakes” boasts almost 20 picturesque lakes, creeks and waterfalls woven through its distinctive neighborhoods. Outdoor enthusiasts can bike along the Grand Rounds trail system, relax at lakeside beaches or explore nearby state parks. A strong job market focused on healthcare, business and tech draws many renters to the Twin Cities region.

4. Overland Park, KS

Claiming fourth spot among the top Midwest cities for renters we have Overland Park, KS, nestled within the larger Kansas City metro area. This city is experiencing growth in its bioscience and tech sectors, creating plenty of job opportunities. At the same time, the city is known for its family-friendly community with highly ranked schools. Renters seeking space on a budget will feel like they hit the jackpot here as Overland Park offers generous apartments for affordable rents. Additionally, Overland Park provides a quieter suburban lifestyle, and renters here have access to golf courses, shopping centers and community parks.

5. Detroit

Detroit, the first Michigan city to make the top 10, is famous for its Motown music legacy, a rich musical history that continues to thrive. The city has been undergoing a decade-long resurgence, marked by a growing job market, ample renovations of historic buildings, and the emergence of new restaurants and retail spaces. Renters can attune to arts and culture in Midtown or experience the thrill of sports by attending games and matches in the downtown arena district.

6. Chicago

Not far behind, in sixth place, is Chicago. This Midwest metro is known worldwide for iconic attractions like the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park and the Willis Tower Skydeck. Renters have plenty to do here, with the list of activities including festivals, world-class dining, lakefront beaches, museums and pro sports teams. Plus, convenient transit makes Chicago livable even without a car.

7. Columbus, OH

Up next is Columbus, OH, home to the Ohio State Buckeyes. Many fresh graduates and young professionals are drawn by the city’s emerging job opportunities. For those interested in happy hour rather than jobs, the Short North Arts District boasts trendy bars, boutiques and galleries housed in rehabbed warehouses. As for the revitalized downtown, you can spend your free time hanging out in parks, exploring bike trails, walking down the Scioto Mile Promenade or enjoying riverfront dining. Additionally, families appreciate Columbus’ affordable cost of living, highly ranked playgrounds and children’s museums.

8. Indianapolis

Ranked eighth among the most searched Midwest cities by renters in 2023 is Indianapolis. Here, the popular Cultural Trail bike paths connect neighborhoods to the Mass Ave arts district, the iconic Indy 500 Speedway track and monumental war memorials. Indianapolis is also a hub for active renters, hosting major sports events like the NCAA March Madness tournament. Plus, Indianapolis’ growing sectors like life sciences and technology appeal to many renters seeking better opportunities in the area.

9. Omaha

Claiming ninth place, Omaha stands out as the metro with the smallest population among the top Midwest cities for renter demand. Omaha provides the amenities of a larger city like trendy cocktail bars, farm-to-table dining and indie music venues with a more laidback Midwest pace. The Old Market district, known for its boutique shopping in historic warehouses and the bustling Farmers Market adds to its charm. Plus, those seeking apartments for rent in Omaha will definitely enjoy the benefits of affordability and availability, even in premium buildings.

10. Cleveland

Rounding out the top 10 most popular Midwest cities for renters is Cleveland. Situated on the shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland rocks with its Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and lively sports events. In addition, outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which stretches from downtown all the way to Akron. Revitalized neighborhoods like Tremont and Ohio City are culinary hotspots, featuring chef-run gastropubs, indie craft breweries and seasonal farmer’s markets. If you’re a music or drama lover, be sure to add Playhouse Square and performances by the Cleveland Orchestra on the list for your next outings.

So, there you have it — a roundup of the Midwest cities drawing the most interest and inquiries from eager renters on RentCafe.com. Across dining, nightlife, recreation and affordability, these places showcase some of the best the Midwest has to offer renters seeking a new rental home. Whether you’re looking for sports excitement, waterfront views or craft beer, these renting spots seamlessly blend big-city amenities with Midwestern charm. Did your favorite Midwest community make the cut? Let us know in the comments.