Southern cities offer U.S. renters the best value in 2025, analysis finds

As the housing market continues to see record-high home prices, many Americans are being squeezed out of the market, leading to a rise in rental prices across the country. However, there are cities that offer advantages for renters in terms of affordability and quality of life, according to a recent analysis.

RentCafe.com conducted a study using data from the Census and other sources to evaluate 150 U.S. cities based on 20 key metrics, including cost of living, housing prices, economic strength, quality of life, and access to amenities. Southern cities dominated the rankings, with McKinney, Texas; Sarasota, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Austin, Texas; and Huntsville, Alabama, taking the top five spots as the best places for renters to live.

McKinney, Texas, claimed the top spot, ranking high in affordability and quality of life. With a lower-than-average cost of living and steady job growth, McKinney offers a small-town atmosphere with the perks of a larger urban center.

On the other hand, cities like Boston, Massachusetts, and Albany, New York, attract renters with high standards of living and top-tier apartments. Stamford, Connecticut, ranked as the top city in the Northeast for quality of life, making it ideal for young professionals.

For renters looking for a balance between work and life, Gilbert, Arizona, is ranked as the 12th best city in the country for renters. Known for its low cost of living and housing, Gilbert was also listed as one of the best places to raise a family in the U.S.

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, represents the Midwest on the list, ranking 18th overall. Known for its parks and cascades, Sioux Falls offers a balance between cost of living, housing, and local economy.

For a complete list of the best cities for renters, you can visit RentCafe’s website here.