A new national analysis suggests that renting may offer more value than buying in many parts of the country, particularly in cities where housing costs remain manageable and quality-of-life amenities are strong.
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New data by WalletHub compared 182 rental markets across the United States using 21 metrics, including rental affordability, cost of living, job opportunities and quality-of-life factors.
Arizona cities are best place to rent
By the numbers:
Arizona dominated the top of the rankings, with Scottsdale, Gilbert and Chandler claiming the top three spots as the best places for renters in 2026.
Scottsdale earned the No. 1 ranking largely because of its high quality of life. The city ranked first for job availability and driving environment, while also placing fourth for weather and seventh for recreation opportunities. Although Scottsdale is not among the nation’s least expensive rental markets, WalletHub found that residents typically spend less than 22% of their annual income on rent, ranking the city 57th for rental affordability. Homes also average 2,179 square feet, among the largest in the country.
An apartment for rent sign is posted in South Pasadena, California on October 19, 2022. (Credit: Frederic J. BROWN / AFP via Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Gilbert ranked second overall, combining relatively affordable rents with spacious housing and family-friendly amenities.
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And Chandler rounded out the top three, with renters also spending roughly 21% of their annual income on housing.
What they’re saying:
“In the best cities for renters, rent can cost you as little as around 15% of your income,” Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst, said. “You’ll also have access to robust laws that protect renters, such as limiting deposits to only a month or two of rent. Our study also considers quality-of-life factors such as a city’s traffic congestion, job market or recreation options to make sure you can get a good living experience, not just inexpensive housing.”
Top cities for renters
- Scottsdale, Arizona
- Gilbert, Arizona
- Chandler, Arizona
- Overland Park, Kansas
- Columbia, Maryland
- Peoria, Arizona
- Bismark, North Dakota
- Huntsville, Alabama
- Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Amarillo, Texas
See the full report here.
Renters could see some relief this year
Big picture view:
A recent Zillow rental market report examining rental costs for March determined that the typical asking rent was $1,910 in March, a 1.8% increase year-over-year, representing the slowest annual pace since 2020.
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Single-family rents spiked 2.5% year-over-year to $2,225, which was also the slowest annual growth ever recorded by Zillow, while multifamily rents climbed 1.3% to $1,757.
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