Crunching the data across 23 metrics for the 96 most populated U.S. cities, Forbes Advisor has uncovered a list of the best cities suited for renters.
Considering rental prices, sizes, affordability, crime, amenities, and neighborhood features, Chandler, Arizona, came in as No. 1, followed by Gilbert. The overall Phoenix metro stands out as a top region with two additional cities in the top 15—Scottsdale and Glendale.
Across the 96 most populated cities, the average rental price for one- and two-bedroom apartments is $1,301 and $1,590, respectively, with the average size of 688 square feet for a one-bedroom apartment and 979 square feet for a two-bedroom apartment.
The top 10 cities best suited for renters includes:
- Chandler, Arizona
- Gilbert, Arizona
- Henderson, Nevada
- Plano, Texas
- Austin, Texas
- Minneapolis
- Lincoln, Nebraska
- Washington, D.C.
- Denver
- Las Vegas
Most of the cities on the top 15 are pet-friendly with Plano at No. 4, which has the highest share (95.32%) of pet friendly rentals, and Boise, Idaho, at No. 11 with the highest availability of dog parks.
In terms of weather, both warm and cold environments are represented in the top 10 with Arizona being the 10th warmest state in the nation and Texas being the fourth, while Minnesota is the fourth coldest state and Colorado is the 10th, according to Forbes Advisor.
The study found that the cheapest rent isn’t an easy way into the top 10 list. While Cleveland (ranking 39th overall) has the most affordable rent for both one- and two-bedroom units, its lower median household income and higher crime and unemployment rate hinder its chances.