Southern cities have swept the top 10 best cities for renters this year as ranked by RentCafe, which analyzed markets based on key factors including affordability, job opportunities and sense of community. The region consistently garners high rankings in cost of living and local economy metrics, the report said.
McKinney, Texas, topped RentCafe’s list, boasting a lower-than-average cost of living, a large share of high-end apartments and consistent job growth. The city’s small-town atmosphere combines with urban amenities to make it an ideal choice for renters. McKinney also stands out for its excellent schools and desirable apartment locations, said RentCafe. Renters can enjoy more than 40 parks, many trails and natural retreats.
In second place is Sarasota, Florida, which performed well in cost of living and housing metrics, along with its solid local economy. The coastal city offers something for renters of all ages, from retirees to remote workers, including a balanced mix of upscale apartments. The city’s diverse economy is supported by major employers like PGT Innovations, Sun Hydraulics, Tropicana Brands Group and Walmart. Sarasota also offers as described as beautiful natural surroundings and an abundance of outdoor activities, according to RentCafe.
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Atlanta slipped one spot to third on RentCafe’s list this year, but remains a strong choice for renters. The city has high scores in cost of living and housing, along with a robust local economy. This is appealing, especially to young renters seeking budget-friendly options that offer employment opportunities. The city is home to several Fortune 500 companies. Atlanta offers a wide selection of high-end apartments and a renter-majority population, while steady income growth makes Atlanta especially appealing to aspiring entrepreneurs, said RentCafe.
Austin, Texas, landed in fourth place on RentCafe’s list with a lower-than-average cost of living, a highly educated population and steady job growth. The city is an established science and tech hub, home to major employers including Dell Technologies, NXP Semiconductors, Keller Williams Realty and Facebook. Residents have access to top-tier educational institutions and outdoor charm.
Rounding out the top five is Huntsville, Alabama, which ranks well in cost of living and housing as well as local economy metrics. The city boasts a welcoming community, steady income growth and lower-than-average cost of living and is home to major employers including NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Meta.
The top 10 also includes Wilmington, North Carolina; Charleston, South Carolina; Round Rock, Texas; Raleigh, North Carolina; and Orlando.
Renters looking for work-life balance should turn to the West, according to the report. Gilbert, Arizona, tops the list of markets in this regard, followed by Boise, Idaho and Scottsdale, Arizona. Other Western hotspots that rank high in quality of life and cost of living are Denver, Colorado Springs and Westminster, Colorado. Salt Lake City, Seattle and Portland, Oregon, also represent the West well in economic and quality of life metrics.
Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Minneapolis lead among highly ranked Midwest markets that balance strong economic factors and quality of life metrics. The Northeast is a compelling option for renters who prioritize quality of life over affordability, according to RentCafe. Leading the region is Stamford, Connecticut, which draws young professionals with top-tier apartments and the presence of several Fortune 500 companies.
Overall, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was the leader in cost of living and housing, while Miami claimed the top spot in terms of best local economy. Washington, D.C., ranked first in quality of life, the report said.
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Kristen Smithberg
Kristen Smithberg is a Colorado-based freelance writer who covers commercial real estate, insurance, benefits and retirement topics for BenefitsPRO and other industry publications.
