Best cities for renters highlighted by an aerial view of McKinney, Texas, showcasing its growing neighborhoods, green spaces, and renter-friendly community.

Best cities for renters to live in 2026: McKinney, TX, leads again in a South-dominated top 50

For the second year in a row, McKinney, TX, holds the top spot in RentCafe.com’s ranking of the best cities for renters. This year, Southern cities account for 37 of the top 50, reinforcing the region’s reputation for affordability and…

Bright living room with sofas and green plants, illustrating how apartment size can influence comfort, layout, and usable living space.

U.S. apartment sizes are growing: Where are renters gaining the most space?

If you’re hoping for larger floor plans, the good news is that apartment sizes have increased in 2025 compared to the previous year….

View from above of residential houses in living area in North Port, FL, to illustrate the place with the largest growth in Millennial homeownership.

Millennial housing report: Where they’re buying homes and where they’re still renting

There’s more to Millennials than brunches and air fryers. In recent years, many have decided to settle down and buy homes. In fact,…

A modern apartment building in Silicon Valley to illustrate it being one of the hottest markets in the early renting season 2026.

Rental competition climbs, Silicon Valley heating up fastest

Rental season got off to a tighter start this year, and nowhere is that clearer than in Miami, where about 16 renters now…

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Latest Posts

San Jose, CA, skyline with hills and Seattle skyline with the Space Needle, illustrating a cost of living comparison for renters.

San Jose vs. Seattle: Which West Coast city is easier on your wallet?

Choosing between San Jose, CA, and Seattle is rarely just about the view out your window. For most renters, it comes down to…

Syracuse, NY, downtown skyline at twilight with high-rise apartment towers and the university's domed stadium.

The best affordable neighborhoods in Syracuse, NY, for renters on a budget

If you’re looking for apartments in affordable neighborhoods in Syracuse, you’re starting in a city where your rental budget can still stretch quite…

Collage showing images from both Philadelphia, PA and Atlanta, GA.

Philadelphia, PA vs. Atlanta, GA: Cost of living comparison for renters

Weighing a move from Philadelphia to Atlanta or the other way around? Both cities have a lot to offer renters. Philadelphia is a…

Two young women sitting on the floor between beds facing each other and talking in a bedroom, both looking relaxed and engaged in conversation with natural daylight streaming in, discussing a co-sign agreement.

The money talk you need to have with your roommate before you co-sign a lease

Before you co-sign a lease with a roommate, you need to have an honest conversation about money. A jointly signed lease means both renters share…

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Neighborhood Guides

best Neighborhood Blogs in Seattle

Keeping Up with the Beat of the Neighborhoods: Seattle’s 30 Best Community News Sites, Mapped

Nestled between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountain Range, Seattle reveals a myriad of unique neighborhoods. These distinct enclaves carry different personalities. Some…

Popular Articles

average utilities costs by state

What are apartment utilities & how much will they cost me?

This article was updated in September 2026. What is the average electric bill?Tips for saving money on your electricity billWhat is the average…

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…

View of Indianapolis, IN, used to compare 2020 affordable rentals to current average rent in 2025.

Mission impossible revisited: What $500 rent got you in 2025 vs. 2020

Renting in some of the nation’s most sought-after cities often means paying top dollar. But if you’re not set on relocating to pricey…

change of address form

Moving soon? Here’s what you need to know about changing your address

Are you heading to a new apartment? If so, we know that moving out of one apartment and into a new one can…

prorated-rent-featured

The 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…

A young person hugging a large dog on a sunny afternoon.

Breed restrictions: What to know when renting with pets

Pets are family, and your four-legged buddies are a big factor in major decisions, including renting an apartment. The entire process of searching…