What Renters Really Want In 2025

Renting is changing fast. In 2025, more renters than ever are setting new priorities. What mattered in the past isn’t always enough now. Cost, comfort, convenience, safety, and tech are climbing toward the top of many renters’ checklists. Below are what renters say they want most, some surprising shifts, and what landlords or renters should know when housing choices are tight.

Big Trends and What Renters Value
One recent report surveyed about 2,200 renters to find out which features and neighborhood factors matter most. Here's what stood out:
‍
       ▪︎  Must-have apartment features. The most important item is in-unit laundry, with about 63% saying it’s non-negotiable. Safety and security in the building or neighborhood follows closely. Rent and affordability are also top concerns. Several others want good parking, private outdoor spaces like patios or balconies, enough storage, and reliable internet.
       ▪︎  Neighborhood matters. Safety is the most cited factor when choosing where to live. Walkability is also very important, followed by being near shops, restaurants, and public transit. Many renters want both convenience and comfort.
       ▪︎  Smart home and tech features are now expected. According to another survey, more than half of renters say they prefer smart door locks, security cameras, smart thermostats, and other tech features over old-school amenities like pools or gyms. Many would give up the luxury extras if it meant getting more modern, useful technology.

Other Things Renters Are Saying
‍
       ▪︎  Over half of U.S. renters (about 56%) say they are ready to move if they find better deals or better-suited homes. Some are motivated by rising rent, others by needing more space or wanting to live in a new neighborhood.
       ▪︎  Utilities included in the rent are a big deal. Renters want basics like water, trash service, and on-site maintenance to be part of the monthly cost. Surprise or hidden charges hurt trust.
       ▪︎  With rent growth slowing in some markets, renters are paying more attention to value and flexibility. Concessions from landlords—such as a few weeks with free rent, or flexible lease-renewal terms—are being noticed.

What This Means for Renters and Landlords
For renters, knowing what’s popular helps when searching for a place. If you want tech, safety, or stability, factor those into your budget or list of must-haves. Know what’s standard in your area so you don’t overpay for features that are common elsewhere.

For landlords or property managers, providing modern safety and tech features, clear rental costs (including utilities), and well kept spaces will make your properties more attractive. If renters feel they are getting more value, they’re likely to renew leases, even if rent is rising.

Final Thoughts
In 2025, renters want more than just a roof over their heads. They want good tech, safety, convenience, and honesty in pricing. While renters always care about cost, many are judging homes also by how modern and useful the features are. If you’re renting, being clear on what you really need can help narrow your search. If you’re offering rentals, meeting renter expectations can make your property stand out.

Top Features Renters Look For:

       ▪︎  🛡️ Safety & Security
       ▪︎  🧺 In-Unit Laundry
       ▪︎  🚗 Parking Availability
       ▪︎  🌿 Outdoor Space
       ▪︎  📶 High-Speed Internet
       ▪︎  📦 Storage Space