More Than Half of Moves Are Driven by Housing, With Affordability Behind 1 in 10 Relocations
Whether seeking better-quality homes, lower costs, or simply moving out on their own for the first time, housing remains the top reason Americans relocate. In fact, more than half of all moves are driven by housing needs and preferences, with the desire for a new or better home being the top motivator. To find out…
Read More5 Affordable Neighborhoods in Brooklyn for New Yorkers on a Budget
New York City has long been one of America’s most expensive rental markets, with sky-high prices that can make finding housing in affordable neighborhoods feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. In 2025, apartments in New York City remain at the top of the list for pricey housing. While the average national rent…
Read MoreRental Activity Report: Washington, D.C. Tops List Again as Southern Cities Attract More Interest
The start of the year is prime time for renters seeking great deals on a new place to call home. But, which cities were capturing the attention of eager apartment-hunters in January? Here’s our January rental activity report to detail these findings. Key Takeaways: Washington, D.C. is renters’ top choice when it comes to the…
Read MoreCan I Use My Security Deposit for Rent?
Security deposits are common when living in a rental apartment, but many renters wonder if they can use their security deposit for rent, particularly when moving out. With rental costs being a major expense, using the deposit to cover the last month’s rent might seem like a practical solution. However, security deposit laws vary by…
Read More5 Wallet-Friendly Neighborhoods to Rent in Seattle
Seattle is an amazing place to live, offering a strong job market, stunning waterfront views, and an unbeatable food and coffee culture. But there’s no denying that apartments in Seattle can be expensive. The city’s average rent of $2,290 as of November 2024 is 31% higher than the national average of $1,748. While some areas…
Read MoreAI and the Rental Market: How Algorithms Are Changing the Apartment Search Game
In today’s digital age, finding the perfect rental property has become a bit like dating — swipe left on the overpriced studio, swipe right on the charming one-bedroom with exposed brick. But what if artificial intelligence (AI) started playing matchmaker? That’s right — AI is shaking things up in the apartment search game, making it…
Read More5 Strategies for Budgeting Monthly Bills for First-Time Renters
Making the big leap into renting your own place is not always easy, but it can be rewarding. No more sneaking snacks from your parents’ fridge or dodging your college roommate’s questionable life choices. But with great independence comes great responsibility — mainly, the challenge of keeping up with monthly bills. Rent, utilities, internet, groceries…
Read More2025 Kicks Off With Cautious Optimism In The Self Storage Sector
The national average self storage street rate stands at $133 in January 2025, slightly dropping year-over-year but rebounding month-over-month Among the country’s largest 150 cities, 91 registered price decreases while 59 experienced price increases Spring Valley, NV, is the country’s only large city where self storage prices dropped by double-digits this January Yonkers, NY, Irvine,…
Read MoreSetting Up an Emergency Fund Plan for First-Time Renters
You’ve finally taken the plunge and rented your own place. No more unsolicited advice about cleaning your room or explaining why pizza counts as breakfast. But before you dive headfirst into the world of decorative throw pillows and trendy houseplants, there’s something crucial you need to set up: an emergency fund plan. Sure, saving money…
Read MoreHow to Pick the Best Neighborhood for Your Family
Finding a place to live is a big deal — especially when you have little ones running around. As a renter, you want the flexibility of leasing without sacrificing the comforts of home.  But how do you choose the best family neighborhood when you’re not putting down permanent roots? It’s not just about curb appeal,…
Read MoreEverything Renters Need to Know About Rental Application Fees
If you’re deep into your apartment search journey, you’ve probably noticed that landlords and property managers require a fee when you apply. Rental application fees are standard in the leasing process and help landlords cover the costs of screening potential renters. These amounts typically pay for background checks, credit reports, and administrative work, ensuring that…
Read MoreWhich Are Some of the Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI?
Renting in the Midwest has never been more popular, and Grand Rapids, MI, is no exception. As apartment hunters flock to cities across the region, competition for rentals has been heating up — especially in thriving, mid-sized cities like this one. Known for its craft beer scene, thriving job market, and easy access to nature,…
Read MoreShould You Rent in a New or Older Apartment Building?
When searching for your new happy place, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to live in a brand-new apartment or in an older building. While new apartments offer the latest amenities and modern conveniences, older buildings often come with charm, character, and sometimes lower rental prices. Deciding between the two depends on…
Read MoreTired of Waiting on Landlords’ Approval? Fast-Track Your Rental Application in 10 Easy Steps
Finding the perfect rental apartment can feel like winning the lottery — until you realize how quickly those “perfect” listings disappear. Let’s face it, we’ve all been there: You finally find an apartment that ticks all the boxes and could be your next happy place. But while you’re busy comparing paint swatches or debating if…
Read MoreEssential Benefits of Self Storage: 7 Times You’ll Love to Have Extra Space Nearby
Self storage can be a lifeline for anyone caught in the crosscurrents of modern life. In fact, urgent situations often reveal the essential benefits of self storage, as that little (or large) extra space grants you the quick and reliable buffer that helps you regain control. So, whether you’re in the middle of a move,…
Read MoreHow Much Renters Insurance Do I Need? Figuring Out the Right Coverage Amount
You just signed the lease contract for an apartment and all your stuff — from furniture to electronics — is ready to find a place in a new home. If you’re thinking about how to best protect your belongings, renters insurance is an easy and affordable way to do just that. This type of policy…
Read MoreHow to budget for moving: A renter’s guide to lifting the financial weight
Moving to a new place is more than just packing boxes and tossing out that avocado-green sofa you swore you’d reupholster (but never did). It’s a financial juggling act that requires foresight, planning, and, of course, a solid budget. Whether you’re swapping your city apartment for a suburban slice of paradise or simply upgrading to…
Read MoreWhat is a roommate agreement, and why you should have one
Sharing a rental apartment is common, especially in larger cities and early-career stages. Whether you’re moving in with friends or people you just met, a roommate agreement can help prevent misunderstandings and make day-to-day life smoother. A clear agreement sets expectations upfront. It won’t solve every issue, but it can help you avoid many common…
Read MoreHere Are the Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Austin
Austin has long been one of the country’s most exciting cities to live in, known for its lively music scene, booming tech industry, and thriving food culture. However, with its growing popularity, renting in Austin has become more expensive over the years. The cost of living in Austin is 7% higher than the state average,…
Read MoreIs Self Storage the New Closet? Here’s What’s Best Kept in Storage to Make Room for Living in Your Apartment
As the nation faces a housing squeeze, apartments are also seeing a significant reduction in size – by as much as 18 square feet over the past decade. Despite revitalization efforts to address the housing gap, this trend has sparked an uptick in new approaches for maximizing space. One such option comes in the shape…
Read MoreUnderstanding Pets in Apartments: Beyond Breed Stereotypes
We all love a happy pet. These tiny bundles of joy fill our lives with warmth and love. However, if you’re just starting your journey as a pet parent, it’s not always easy to know where to look and what pet to pick, especially if you are renting with pets. There is a lot of…
Read MoreLuxury for less: Best zip codes for upscale living at lower rents
An attractive apartment with desirable amenities, in a nice neighborhood, at a reasonable monthly rent. Many renters dream of such a combination, but few know this is possible. Are you curious about those luxury-for-less hotspots? So, to help renters find the best deals as we gear up for the peak season for moving, RentCafe.com analyzed…
Read MoreMaximize Your In-Person Apartment Tour: Tips for a Successful Visit
If you’re looking for your new happy place — an apartment for rent that matches your needs — scrolling through online listings and watching virtual tours is a great starting point. But let’s be real, nothing beats seeing a place in person. An in-person apartment tour is your chance to go beyond the carefully curated…
Read MoreWhat Is a Walk-Up Apartment? Pros, Cons, and Things to Consider Before Renting
Searching for the perfect apartment isn’t easy — especially when daily stair climbs are part of the deal. For some, the idea of hauling groceries or furniture up multiple flights might sound exhausting. But for others, the charm and budget-friendly price tag of a walk-up apartment make the extra steps worthwhile.  These apartments often come…
Read MoreTips for Apartment Hunting in a Changing Market: Find Your Happy Place Faster
The rental market is shifting fast, with apartment hunters prioritizing energy-efficient apartments and affordability more than before, while facing increased competition. This is why renters need to be proactive and strategic to secure the best deals and find a rental apartment that fits their needs. By using smart search tactics, budgeting effectively, and leveraging digital…
Read MoreUnderstanding Apartment Parking: A Guide to Common Parking Options for Renters
When searching for the perfect rental apartment, it’s easy to focus mostly on the floorplan, amenities and location  — but don’t forget about parking! Whether you own a car or expect frequent visitors, having access to convenient and reliable apartment parking options can make your daily life much smoother. Most apartment communities offer a variety…
Read MoreThe nitty-gritty of paying the fair amount: Prorated rent explained
After spending days, weeks, or even months looking, you’ve finally found a rental apartment or house that fits your needs and budget. But for some reason, you can’t move in until the 4th, the 18th, or even the 27th of the month. So, should you have to pay for the whole month’s rent? In most…
Read More10 Heating Safety Tips to Keep You Warm and Worry-Free
Picture this: It’s a cold winter afternoon and you’re enjoying the warmth of the little fireplace in your apartment’s living room. Your cat is purring on your lap and you’re holding a cup of hot tea. During these cozy moments, especially when temperatures drop, it’s nice to be able to enjoy the moment while also…
Read MoreWhat Are the Best Affordable Neighborhoods to Rent in San Antonio, TX?
San Antonio, TX, is a city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and affordable cost of living. Located in Bexar County, San Antonio’s overall cost of living is 9% lower than the national average, making it an attractive place for renters looking to get the most value for their money. While housing costs have…
Read MoreRecord-breaking 71K units set to emerge from office-to-apartment conversions
Key Takeaways: The number of office-to-apartment conversions has skyrocketed from 23,100 in 2022 to a record-breaking 70,700 in 2025. Office-to-apartment conversions now make up almost 42% of the nearly 169,000 apartments in future adaptive reuse projects. Adaptive reuse of newer buildings (built between the 1990s and 2010s) is on the rise, increasing from 1.27% of…
Read More