Apartment Search

Couple sitting on the living room floor of their apartment using a laptop together—engaged in their apartment search.

The ‘Sweet Spot’ Timing: When to Start Your Apartment Search for a Summer Move

Whether you’re relocating for a new job, school, or simply craving a change of scenery, summer is one of the…

An aerial shot of the skyline in Fort Worth, TX, a city where you’ve got quite a few options for affordable neighborhoods.

5 Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Fort Worth, TX

Fort Worth is one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas — and it’s easy to see why. It offers a…

The Unisphere and observation towers in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, a landmark near some of Queens' most affordable neighborhoods in NYC.

Apartment Hunting on a Budget in NYC? Here Are 5 Affordable Neighborhoods to Explore in Queens

The dream of living in New York City often comes with a hefty price tag, and finding an affordable apartment…

The skyline of Chicago during sunset, capturing the city's iconic architecture and vibrant urban life—perfectly showcasing the appeal of apartments in Chicago.

5 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in Chicago

If you’re thinking about moving to Chicago, you’re not alone: In 2025, the city continues to attract renters from all…

A shot of the skyline in Houston, as seen from a bridge in a park.

Cost of Living in Houston: What to Expect When Living Here as a Renter

Moving to a new city comes with a lot of planning, especially for renters who need to figure out where…

Diverse apartment buildings in The Bronx, NY, representing affordable options for renters exploring neighborhoods in New York City.

Finding Affordable Neighborhoods in New York City: 5 Areas to Consider in the Bronx

New York — the city of big dreams, bright lights, and… sky-high rents. Finding an apartment that doesn’t consume your…

looking for an apartment

Looking for an Apartment to Rent? Here’s the Ultimate Checklist

Searching for an apartment for rent can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t know where to start. Luckily,…

close-up of a man's hands holding a cardboard box with the words 'moving day' written on it

Your Go-To Guide for Moving to a New City During Peak Rental Season

Moving to a new city during peak rental season is almost like hopping on a rollercoaster — it’s exhilarating, heart-pounding,…

Aerial view of New Orleans, Louisiana, on a bright winter morning—highlighting the city's charm and ranking it among the best affordable neighborhoods for comfortable living.

Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in New Orleans

New Orleans is a city like no other. With its vibrant culture, historic charm and unbeatable food scene, it’s no…

A keypad access system on an apartment wall, highlighting modern apartment safety tips and essential building security features.

Evaluating Building Security: What to Look for Beyond the Doorman

Safety is a top concern for many renters, regardless of whether you live in a rental apartment. No matter if…

An aerial view of Cleveland, a city where renters can find affordable neighborhoods with rent prices below local and national averages.

5 Affordable Neighborhoods to Check Out in Cleveland

Looking for a place to rent in Cleveland that won’t stretch your budget? You’re not alone. Cleveland has long been…

Apartment Hunting Just Got Easier: Check Out What’s New on RentCafe.com

Finding your next apartment should be an exciting experience, not a stressful one. At RentCafe.com, we’re committed to making your…

most affordable neighborhoods in philadelphia

Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, continues to be a magnet for renters in the Northeast, offering a lively urban…

Aerial view of Sacramento showcasing a mix of modern and historic architecture, the State Capitol, lush greenery, and the distant Sacramento River, highlighting the city’s charm and its affordable neighborhoods.

Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Sacramento, CA

If you’re searching for an affordable place to call home in California, Sacramento is a great place to start. Known…

A breathtaking sunset cityscape of Phoenix, Arizona, with vibrant twilight colors and a dramatic desert skyline, capturing the beauty of downtown and reflecting on the region’s cost of living.

Cost of Living in Phoenix: What to Expect When Living Here as a Renter

Finding the right apartment is only part of the journey of moving to a new city. Before signing that lease,…

A close-up of a person, holding a pen, about to sign their name on a rental form. But, what’s the difference between a lease and a rental agreement?

The Difference Between a Lease & a Rental Agreement: What Renters Need to Know

When you’re renting an apartment (or a house, for that matter), it’s important to know exactly what kind of contract…

An aerial view of the capitol in downtown Nashville, TN — a city where you can find affordable neighborhoods with rent prices below local and national averages.

5 Affordable Neighborhoods to Consider in Nashville, TN

Nashville has become a top destination for renters thanks to its thriving music scene, rich history and Southern charm. However,…

View of Indianapolis, IN, used to compare 2020 affordable rentals to current average rent in 2025.

Mission Impossible Revisited: What $500 Rent Got You in 2020 vs. 2025

Renting in some of the nation’s most sought-after cities often means paying top dollar. But if you’re not set on…

Part of a lobby interior designed in an elegant style, paid for by common area maintenance fees.

A Practical Guide to Understanding Common Area Maintenance Fees

Renting an apartment in a well-kept residential building has its perks: a clean lobby, secure entryways, neatly trimmed landscaping, and…

Scenic view of downtown San Francisco, California, USA, with the skyline at sunrise, highlighting the city's beauty and its high cost of living.

Cost of Living in San Francisco: What to Expect When Living Here as a Renter

Relocating to a new city is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when you’re moving as a renter….

Dallas skyline glowing at twilight with prominent skyscrapers and lower-rise apartment buildings, showcasing the cityscape relevant to renters assessing the cost of living in Dallas.

Cost of Living in Dallas: What to Expect When Renting Here

Let’s be honest, packing everything up and starting fresh somewhere unfamiliar can be a handful, especially when you’re renting. Nailing…

Person carrying two cardboard boxes into a new apartment, representing move-in essentials for a first apartment, with other boxes, moving supplies and a plant in the background.

First Week, First Wins: The Move-In Essentials You Can’t Skip vs. What Can Wait

When you walk into your new apartment after signing the lease, it may seem like a blank canvas — so…

A spacious lounge with city views and modern furnishings, highlighting upscale apartment amenities designed for socializing and relaxation.

Apartment Amenities: What’s Worth it (& What’s a Waste of Money)

When searching for your new happy place, renters often come across a wide range of apartment amenities. From practical conveniences…

A waterfront view of Long Beach, CA, a city where renters can find some affordable neighborhoods.

Renting in Long Beach, CA? Here Are 5 Affordable Neighborhoods to Consider

Long Beach is a southern California gem that offers coastal living, an active arts scene and a laidback vibe that’s…

The Neighbor Interview: Tactful Ways to Get the Inside Scoop During a Viewing

Apartment-hunting isn’t just about glossy photos, updated appliances or that irresistible “open-concept living” description in the listing. Instead, one of…

A cheerful man, woman, and young girl embrace and smile while sitting on the floor, visually conveying the happiness of renters benefiting from apartment specials.

Rent Specials Explained: What They Are & How They Can Help Your Apartment Search

As the rental season unrolls, searching for an apartment can become more challenging as more people look for housing. Yet,…

An aerial view of apartments in San Francisco along Lombard Street, showcasing colorful buildings, greenery and views of the nearby bay.

5 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in San Francisco

Renting in San Francisco means living in one of the most dynamic and desirable cities in the U.S. — but…

A scenic view of Sacramento’s Tower Bridge surrounded by greenery and flowers at sunset, highlighting the lifestyle appeal and cost of living in Sacramento, CA.

What’s the Cost of Living in Sacramento? Here’s What to Expect as a Renter

Every city has its own rhythm — and, with it, a unique price tag that renters need to navigate. From…

A 1099 form, which is used to declare yearly earnings when working as a freelancer. This is just one method of proving income when self-employed.

Renting in the Gig Economy: How to Prove Income When You’re Self-Employed

The gig economy has reshaped the way people work by offering flexibility and independence. Now, more Americans than ever are…

Riverwalk along St. John's River in Jacksonville, FL, at dusk, showcasing the scenic charm and affordable neighborhoods of the city.

Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in Jacksonville, FL

With a strong job market, beautiful weather, and proximity to beaches, Jacksonville offers a great quality of life without the…