How to Save on Utilities: A Renter’s Guide to Cutting Costs
As a renter, you might think you have little control over your utility bills. After all, you don’t own the property, so how much say do you really have in energy efficiency? The truth is, there’s plenty you can do to save on utilities, even if you’re not the landlord. Why should renters care about…
Read MoreApartment Size in Florida: Where to Find the Largest Rentals
Are you on the hunt for a new apartment in the Sunshine State? If so, you’re probably also wondering about apartment size in Florida. Whether you’re looking for a cozy studio or a spacious three-bedroom, understanding the trends in apartment size across different locations in the state can help you make an informed decision. In…
Read MoreThe thrilling but terrifying test of adulthood: Moving into your first apartment
Feeling excited, nervous, maybe even a little scared — all at once? That’s completely normal. Moving into your first apartment and starting life on your own is a big step — and it’s bound to stir up a mix of emotions. We get it: It’s both thrilling and a little intimidating. But don’t let those…
Read MoreHow Much Apartment Space Does $1,500 Get You in 200 U.S. Cities?
Renters looking for a spacious apartment on a budget in a big city should immediately head to the South. That’s because more than half of the top 20 large cities offering the most apartment space for a monthly rent of $1,500 are in the Southeast and Southwest. The remaining are all in the Midwest —…
Read MoreLuxury Car Elevator or Private Observatory? A Look at the Top 10 Quirkiest Apartment Amenities in 2024
Besides worrying about how to take care of laundry, renters today might also find themselves contemplating whether having a recording studio in their apartment community is a sign to pursue a new career. Or how much a cat-shaped building really improves your renting experience. (We assume a lot, if you’re a cat person, that is.)…
Read MoreApartment Size in Colorado: Discover the Largest Spaces to Rent
When searching for a new apartment, size is a crucial factor. In Colorado, finding a spacious apartment can significantly enhance your living experience. From the bustling streets of Denver to the scenic vistas of Colorado Springs, renters have some generously sized new apartments to choose from. In fact, overall, apartment size in Colorado tends to…
Read MoreLeaving on a Jet Plane? First, Prep Your Apartment in 10 Easy Steps
The thrill of booking a plane ticket, the anticipation of a new adventure, that satisfying out-of-office email auto-reply — there’s nothing quite like planning a getaway! But if you’re a renter, there’s a whole extra layer of prep involved before you can truly relax and enjoy your vacation. Let’s face it, leaving your rental apartment…
Read MoreSelf Storage Street Rates Continue Their Decline In Most Major Cities
National self storage street rates dropped by 3.5% year-over-year in June 2024, with an average unit renting for $141 85% of the country’s 150 largest cities are seeing street rate decreases Aurora, IL, tops the list of cities with price drops, with the average unit 13% less expensive than a year ago Detroit, MI, on…
Read More9 Things to Do in Aurora, as Recommended by the Locals
Although it’s considered a suburb of Denver, Aurora, CO, is the third largest city in the state, with a population of over 380,000. Aurora was home to the Arapaho, Cheyenne, Ute, and Sioux peoples until the silver boom of the 1880s brought European settlers to the area. In the early 20th century, the city was…
Read More10 Ways to Be More Sustainable as a Renter in Miami
As climate change poses increasing challenges to coastal cities, Miami has taken significant steps to mitigate its impact and create a more environmentally friendly urban landscape. Here, each apartment dweller needs to find ways to be more sustainable and reduce their carbon footprint. From innovative building practices to community-driven initiatives, the Magic City is committed…
Read More2024 Mid-Year Review: Top Rental Market Findings by RentCafe.com
The first half of 2024 revealed intriguing trends and shifts in the rental market. To keep you informed, RentCafe.com has compiled the top must-read reports of the year so far. Packed with exclusive data, engaging visuals, and expert analysis, these reports offer a comprehensive look at the forces shaping the market as it continues to…
Read MoreMid-Year Rental Activity Report: Minneapolis Is Top City in 1st Half of 2024, West Most Desirable Region for Renting
Key Takeaways: Our mid-year rental activity report reveals a growing trend of renters adopting a meticulous approach to their apartment search by thoroughly exploring multiple options before making a decision. Minneapolis maintains its dominance as the most sought-after city in the first half of the year, claiming the top spot for five out of six…
Read MoreBiggest Signs That Your Potential Roommate Isn’t Right For You
Choosing a roommate is like finding a new best friend to share your fridge, your living room and fight over the TV with — so, like a sibling you share rent with. But while you can’t choose your sibling, you can definitely choose your roommate. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye out for…
Read MoreHow to be a good neighbor: 7 tips for renters that go beyond the basics
When living in a rental apartment, being a good neighbor goes far beyond following the rules and keeping noise levels down. It’s about nurturing a sense of community that transforms your apartment complex into a true home. But what truly makes a great neighbor, someone that everyone appreciates? Often, it’s the small, unexpected acts of…
Read MoreHow to Find a Roommate in a New City: Your Ultimate Guide
Moving to a new city is such an exciting experience! The thrill of exploring new neighborhoods, discovering local hotspots, and creating fresh memories makes it a truly exhilarating chapter in your life. But let’s face it: The thought of finding a roommate in an unfamiliar place can be daunting.  Don’t worry — we’ve got you…
Read More14 Great Things to Do in Charlotte, North Carolina (According to the Locals)
Sometimes known as “Queen City,” Charlotte is the largest and most populous city in North Carolina. Its fascinating (recorded) history traces back to 1567 when the Spanish listed the Catawba Native American peoples as its first inhabitants. It was later settled by European colonists around 1755 and became the chief producer of gold in the…
Read MoreBest Cities for Renters to Live in 2024: Charleston Tops the Charts for Second Year in a Row
Key Takeaways Charleston, SC, is this year’s best city for renters for the second year in a row, followed by Atlanta in second place and Sarasota, FL, in third place. San Marcos, TX, ranks best for cost of living and housing; Miami leads in local economy; and Washington, D.C., has the best quality of life.…
Read MorePublic Transport in Boston: What Renters Need to Know
If you’re renting an apartment in Boston or if you’re thinking about moving to Beantown, you might be trying to figure out how to navigate the city. Fortunately, public transport in Boston offers an extensive network that makes it easy to get around without a car. As a renter in such a busy hub, having…
Read MoreFirst Time Living With a Roommate: Dos and Don’ts for a Happy Home
Living with a roommate for the first time can be both exciting and stressful. Whether you’re leaving your family home, tired of living by yourself, moving in with your partner, or looking into co-habitation to save some money, having a roommate can make your life more fun and rewarding. But, let’s face it: Co-living can…
Read More10 Tips for a More Sustainable Lifestyle in San Diego
Living sustainably not only helps the planet but also enhances your quality of life and strengthens your sense of community — wherever you live. In San Diego, it’s easy for those in a rental apartment to embrace a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Whether you’re new to the city or have called it home for years, there…
Read MoreApartment Size in California: Where to Find the Most Spacious New Rentals
With its stunning coastlines, iconic cities, and diverse landscapes, California has long been a magnet for renters seeking an exciting and fulfilling lifestyle. From the tech hubs of Silicon Valley to the entertainment mecca of Los Angeles, California cities offer unparalleled opportunities for career growth, cultural exploration, and outdoor adventures. With so much to offer,…
Read More5 Ways to Store Your Bike When Living in a Small Apartment
Biking is a popular activity in the U.S., both as a form of recreation and means of transportation — there are around 52M bicycle riders in the U.S. currently, and Americans spent almost $7 billion on bicycles and accessories in 2020 alone. For many, especially for those living in cities that are bike-friendly, biking is…
Read MorePublic transit in New York City: Exploring the best commute options for renters
When it comes to renting apartments in New York City, one of the top things to consider is how close you are to public transit options. Fortunately, the city’s extensive system connects all five boroughs, making it easy for millions of people to get around every day. Understanding how to navigate public transit can have…
Read MoreSelf Storage Rent Drops Pervasive Across Most Large Cities, While Construction Carries On in About Half of Them
National self storage rates went down 3.5% year-over-year in May 2024, continuing on the same 20-month downward trend Fayetteville, NC, and Chandler, AZ, experienced rent drops in the double digits, joining other Sunbelt cities for highest rent decreases A handful of cities registered modest rent increases, with Detroit, MI, and Akron, OH, coming in first…
Read MoreHow to Organize Your Personal Library When Living in a Rental Apartment
Setting up a personal library in a rental apartment is like embarking on a fun, creative adventure. Whether you’re a book lover with an ever-expanding collection or just want to add some literary flair to your rental apartment, finding ways to organize and display your books without damaging the place is key. And while you’re…
Read More10 Staycation Ideas: How to Create the Perfect Summer Getaway in Your Rental
Summer is here, and the allure of a relaxing vacation is getting stronger. However, you don’t need to pack your bags and travel far to have a memorable holiday. With a bit of creativity and planning, your rental apartment can become the perfect holiday spot. There are so many staycation ideas to explore and so…
Read MoreBeat the Heat While Working From Home: How to Stay Productive & Comfortable
As summer temperatures rise, maintaining productivity and comfort while working from home can become a challenging task. The sweltering heat can lead to discomfort, decreased focus, and overall inefficiency, making it harder to stay on top of your work responsibilities. However, with the right strategies and adjustments, you can transform your home workspace into a…
Read MoreApartment Balcony Astronomy: Essential Stargazing Tips for Renters
For those of us in high-rise apartments right in the heart of bustling cities across the U.S., stargazing can be a peaceful break from the non-stop urban buzz. Believe it or not, turning your apartment balcony or a window into your own little sky watching spot is easier than you might think. This stargazing guide…
Read More12 Fun Things to Do in Columbus, OH According to LocalsÂ
As the capital and largest city in the state of Ohio, Columbus is rich in history and culture. This is thanks in part to the wave of Irish and German immigrants who settled in the north and south ends of the city in the 1830s, but also in its support for abolition during the Civil…
Read More16 Exciting Things to Do in Phoenix, According to LocalsÂ
Phoenix, Arizona, is famous for many things: its desert climate perfect for golfing during the spring, fall, and winter months; its unbelievably beautiful sunsets; and its delicious southwestern fare thanks to the culinary contributions of its Native American and Mexican residents.   But it also has a fascinating origin story dating from prehistoric times. The history…
Read More