Articles by

Adina Dragos

Adina Dragos is a real estate writer and research analyst with RentCafe. She has solid experience in real estate writing, covering topics ranging from best cities for renters and the top cities for rental activity to cost of living. Her work was featured in several prominent media channels such as Axios, The Dallas Morning News, ConnectCRE and The New York Times.

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Scenic view of swan birds gracefully floating on the waters of Lake Eola Park in Orlando, Florida. Discover peaceful surroundings and vibrant city life near some of the best apartments in Orlando, ideal for those seeking comfort and nature in the heart of the city.

Renting an apartment in Orlando, FL? Ask these 5 key questions first

Orlando, FL, has quickly become one of the top picks for renters looking to relocate in 2025 as the city continues to attract renters from…

A charming businesswoman sitting at a desk in her home office, using a laptop. She holds a credit card in her hand, reflecting a seamless and convenient shopping experience in a professional yet comfortable setting.

Rental application credit check 101: What you need to know before you sign the lease

When you’re on the hunt for your dream rental, the last thing you want is for your application to hit a snag. But here’s the…

Elegant living room interior featuring a modern electric fan placed on a stylish shelving unit. The space combines comfort and functionality, highlighting new features in home climate control and smart decor elements for a contemporary lifestyle.

Smart Tools, Simpler Renting: RentCafe.com’s New Features Make Renting Effortless

Renting can be stressful, but we believe it doesn’t have to be. That’s why we’ve been busy rolling out some new features that are all…

Happy young couple relaxing on a cozy sofa in their living room, each using a smartphone. The smiling millennial man and woman enjoy browsing together, possibly researching or managing household matters like the lease renewal process, staying informed and connected through modern technology in a comfortable home setting.

Why Understanding the Lease Renewal Process Is Key to Staying Home-Sweet-Home

So, your lease is winding down and you’re wondering: Should I stay or should I go? Before you start humming that tune too loudly, let’s…

A woman working remotely from home on her fashion startup during quarantine, smiling while reviewing documents and speaking on the phone in her cozy living room. With a laptop open and a clothing rack in the background, she multitasks to manage business tasks and stay productive. This scene also reflects the modern tenant experience, where handling paperwork and making a rental application follow-up over the phone is just part of daily life.

How to Nail the Rental Application Follow-Up Like a Pro

When it comes to finding a new place to call home, patience may be a virtue. But, let’s be honest: Waiting to hear back on…

View of downtown McKinney, TX, number one of best cities for renters in 2025, during sunrise in summer.

Best cities for renters to live in 2025: Southern cities sweep top 10

When looking for the best cities for renters in 2025, there are several key factors to keep in mind — like affordability, job opportunities, and…

This image shows a young busy businesswoman managing accounting and financial documents while working on her laptop in a modern office. She appears focused on paperwork management and reviewing important data, reflecting the dedication and planning often required to pay rent between jobs and stay on top of expenses during transitional periods.

Your Guide to Handling Rent When You’re Between Jobs

The delicate dance of adulthood usually involves balancing job applications, networking events and maybe the occasional stress-induced ice cream binge … all while that rent…

This aerial view of Huntsville, Alabama in spring showcases the city’s scenic beauty and growth, reflecting why affordable neighborhoods in Huntsville, AL are increasingly popular among renters and homebuyers seeking both charm and value.

Moving to Huntsville, AL? Here’s where you can rent affordably

If you’re considering a move to Huntsville, AL, you’re in good company. With a growing population and a high quality of life, Huntsville is one…

This aerial view of Aqua Adventure Waterpark in Fremont, CA, surrounded by green lawns and families enjoying the day, highlights one of the many community amenities that make affordable neighborhoods in Fremont appealing to residents seeking both recreation and value.

3 Neighborhoods in Fremont, CA, Where You Can Rent on a Budget

Looking to live in the Bay Area without completely draining your bank account? Fremont, CA, might just be your sweet spot. For renters seeking value,…

This retro-inspired living space, featuring a bold orange accent wall, plush white chairs, sculptural decor, and soft pastel accessories, perfectly captures the charm of new features in contemporary interior design. The playful yet sophisticated arrangement showcases how vintage elements can be refreshed with modern touches to create a vibrant and stylish home environment.

6 RentCafe.com Features That Make Renting a Breeze

Let’s be real: hunting for the perfect apartment can sometimes feel like a full-time job. Between managing dozens of listings, comparing amenities, and trying to…

The downtown skyline of Las Vegas, Nevada offers more than just dazzling lights—it also reflects the growing interest in the cost of living in Las Vegas. With its mix of modern high-rises and surrounding residential neighborhoods, this vibrant city continues to attract individuals looking for affordability, entertainment, and a dynamic lifestyle.

Your Renter’s Roadmap: Understanding the Cost of Living in Las Vegas

Relocating to a new city can feel overwhelming if you’re trying to figure out how your income will stretch in an unfamiliar place. Therefore, when…

A scenic sunset view of Jacksonville showcases the city skyline reflecting beautifully on the water. This picturesque moment contrasts with the practical concerns many consider when relocating, such as the cost of living in Jacksonville, which remains one of the more affordable options among major U.S. cities.

Here’s What to Expect When it Comes to Cost of Living in Jacksonville, FL, as a Renter

Relocating to a new city comes with its fair share of excitement and stress — especially for renters. From choosing the right neighborhood to finding…

A young woman packing cardboard boxes in her apartment, preparing for relocation. Surrounded by tape, labels, and household items, she carefully organizes her belongings as part of a well-planned moving-out timeline, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition to her new home.

Mastering the Move: How to Create a Moving Out Timeline That Won’t Drive You Up the Wall

Moving out is one of those life moments that walks the fine line between exciting and exhausting. Whether you’re relocating for a new job, moving…

Boats navigating through Fort Lauderdale's waterways during Labor Day Weekend traffic, set against the backdrop of one of South Florida’s coastal cities known for offering some of the best affordable neighborhoods for waterfront living and lifestyle convenience.

Looking to Rent in Fort Lauderdale, FL? Check Out These Affordable Neighborhoods

Looking to rent in sunny Fort Lauderdale, FL, without draining your bank account? You’re not alone. But, although the city is known for its beaches,…

Beautiful aerial view of Tampa suburbs showcasing premium residential areas in Florida, USA — an ideal destination featuring some of the best affordable neighborhoods for families and individuals seeking both comfort and value in real estate.

5 Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Tampa, FL

If you’re considering a move to Tampa, FL, you’re not alone. This lively city has become one of Florida’s top destinations for renters seeking sunshine,…

Concept art illustration of a Manhattan penthouse interior design in New York City, highlighting the elegance and appeal of luxury apartments typically leased by millionaire renters.

1 in 11 millionaires now rents, Southern metro areas become hotspots for luxury living

In a stunning reversal of traditional wealth patterns, millionaire renters have tripled since 2019, outpacing their homeowning counterparts in one of real estate’s most unexpected…

A rental company employee hands over the house key to a customer after thoroughly explaining the terms and conditions of both short-term lease and long-term lease agreements, helping them make an informed decision in the real estate rental process.

Understanding Key Differences Between Short- & Long-Term Leases

When it comes to renting a new place, it’s not all throw pillows and Pinterest boards. One of the first and most important choices you’ll…

Carefree young woman sitting comfortably on a sofa, holding a mug and enjoying a peaceful moment of quiet enjoyment in her cozy home.

Peace, Quiet & the Rental Life: Understanding Quiet Enjoyment in Your Lease

Ah, the sweet sound of silence, punctuated only by the chirping of birds or the gentle hum of your favorite show on the TV. Of…

Cheerful young woman sitting on the sofa in her modern apartment, smiling while browsing online—possibly searching for a great deal on a rental or exploring new opportunities from the comfort of home.

How to Score a Great Deal on a Rental in the Big City Jungle

The big city is where dreams are made, traffic never sleeps and rent prices can make your wallet cry a little inside. Whether you’re moving…

Cleveland skyline along the Cuyahoga River in autumn—highlighting the city's seasonal beauty and offering insight into the cost of living in this vibrant urban area.

Cost of Living in Cleveland: What to Expect When Living Here as a Renter

Relocating to a new city can be exciting, especially when you’re starting fresh in a new apartment. But, before packing boxes and signing a lease,…

Discover What’s New on RentCafe.com: Simple Updates to Make Your Renting Experience Easier

Because we’re always on a mission to make your real estate journey not only smarter, but also smoother, RentCafe.com is rolling out a batch of…

Application Process Couple Moving Couch

A step-by-step guide through the rental application process

You did it! You’ve looked at countless apartments online, scheduled walkthroughs all around the city, and finally found your dream apartment. What’s the next step?…

San Diego skyline at sunrise with Coronado Bridge and Coronado Island in view, showcasing the coastal city's beauty and offering perspective on the cost of living in this vibrant urban landscape.

Cost of Living in San Diego: What to Expect When Living Here as a Renter

Figuring out where to live is just part of relocating to a new city. The real challenge? Understanding how much it’s going to cost to…

An aerial image of the Tower Bridge and State Capitol Building in Sacramento on a beautiful day after a rainstorm, highlighting the city's scenic charm and the appeal of apartments in Sacramento.

5 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in Sacramento, CA

If you’re searching for an affordable California city with career opportunities, outdoor access and a strong sense of community, Sacramento should be on your radar….

Couple sitting on the living room floor of their apartment using a laptop together—engaged in their apartment search.

The ‘Sweet Spot’ Timing: When to Start Your Apartment Search for a Summer Move

Whether you’re relocating for a new job, school, or simply craving a change of scenery, summer is one of the most popular times to pack…

The skyline of Chicago during sunset, capturing the city's iconic architecture and vibrant urban life—perfectly showcasing the appeal of apartments in Chicago.

5 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in Chicago

If you’re thinking about moving to Chicago, you’re not alone: In 2025, the city continues to attract renters from all across the country thanks to…

Aerial view of New Orleans, Louisiana, on a bright winter morning—highlighting the city's charm and ranking it among the best affordable neighborhoods for comfortable living.

Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in New Orleans

New Orleans is a city like no other. With its vibrant culture, historic charm and unbeatable food scene, it’s no surprise that so many renters…

Apartment Hunting Just Got Easier: Check Out What’s New on RentCafe.com

Finding your next apartment should be an exciting experience, not a stressful one. At RentCafe.com, we’re committed to making your search as simple and efficient…

Aerial view of Sacramento showcasing a mix of modern and historic architecture, the State Capitol, lush greenery, and the distant Sacramento River, highlighting the city’s charm and its affordable neighborhoods.

Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Sacramento, CA

If you’re searching for an affordable place to call home in California, Sacramento is a great place to start. Known for its rich history, welcoming…

A breathtaking sunset cityscape of Phoenix, Arizona, with vibrant twilight colors and a dramatic desert skyline, capturing the beauty of downtown and reflecting on the region’s cost of living.

Cost of Living in Phoenix: What to Expect When Living Here as a Renter

Finding the right apartment is only part of the journey of moving to a new city. Before signing that lease, it’s smart to understand what…