If you think renting is just if you build, they will come... think again. Today’s renters are sharper than ever. They know what they want, and they aren’t settling. According to the global leader in apartments end-of-year Design Survey, which tapped into the opinions of over 90,000 renters nationwide, the playing field has leveled up.
Walk-in closets, fresh air ventilation, and large windows are no longer “pros and cons”—they’re non-negotiable dealmakers.
And here’s the kicker: it’s not just about nationwide trends. Preferences not surprisingly shift dramatically by region. In Dallas and Atlanta, it’s all about outdoor living with green spaces, patios, pools, and barbecue areas. Head to the Pacific Northwest, and renters are clamoring for energy-efficient lighting and sustainable features.
Want to win over New Yorkers? Storage solutions and smart locks are the hot luxury.
With readers across the country, we've debriefed the most desired amenities by region for your convenience!
The Northeast: Think of tight spaces with high density and higher demand. In cities like New York and Boston, renters prioritize controlled access, smart locks, and, above all, storage. Modular closets are a massive hit, with four out of five renters giving them the two thumbs-up.
The Midwest: Renters here are practical. Side-by-side washers and dryers? Yes, please. Built-in storage near bedrooms? Absolutely. And don’t forget private, designed, over-the-top coworking spaces—these are in high demand in cold-climate cities like Chicago and Minneapolis.
The South: It’s all about the great outdoors. From reserved parking spots and covered garages to shaded green spaces and pools, southern renters are chasing that laid-back lifestyle. Dallas renters, in particular, rank walk-in closets as an absolute must.
The West Coast: Welcome to the land of ecological consciousness. Fresh air ventilation, premium air filters, and energy-efficient everything are priorities in tech-forward cities like Seattle, San Francisco, and Portland. California renters also love their private outdoor spaces, big windows, and, of course, pools.
Furnished Apartments: Here’s a semi-surprise. While most renters are fine furnishing their own homes, there’s a niche group willing to pay an extra $105+ a month for a fully furnished unit. That’s a big opportunity for property owners looking to stand out in a crowded market.
EV Charging Stations: Electric vehicles are taking over the roads, and renters will pay a premium to have their own reserved EV charging station with their name on it. EV charging stations have skyrocketed in demand, and this trend isn’t slowing down. If you’re a developer or investor, adding EV infrastructure is a no-brainer for staying ahead of the curve.
The focus on health and sustainability isn’t going anywhere. Fresh air ventilation is a top priority for 86% of renters surveyed, with 17% outright refusing to rent a unit without it. This trend is strongest in tech-centric markets like Seattle and San Jose, where wellness meets innovation.
Sustainability features like energy-efficient appliances and eco-friendly lighting are also in the spotlight. These aren’t just good for the planet—they’re becoming non-negotiables for today’s renters who care about their carbon footprint.
Here’s what’s clear: wellness and creativity are driving the future of rental spaces. In 2025 and beyond, expect a surge in demand for fitness centers, adaptable living spaces, and innovative community areas that blend function with flair.
Tech-driven amenities like keyless entry and smart home systems will remain essential, and the focus on sustainability will continue to grow. The bar for “must-have” amenities keeps rising from EV charging stations to air quality improvements.
Renters today are raising the stakes, and the end-of-year 2024 Design Survey lays out a clear blueprint for what’s next. For residential developers, investors, and owners, this is the moment to rethink what's on the cutting room floor when it comes time for value engineering. Understanding these shifting priorities—and acting on them—could mean the difference between a property that thrives and one that gets left behind.
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