With U.S. rents climbing nearly 50% in the past decade, renters across the country have felt their budgets squeezed. In high-cost metros like New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, it’s not uncommon for rent to consume over one-third of a household’s income leaving little left for savings or other essentials.
But not every city paints the same picture. According to a WalletHub analysis featured by Quartz, there are still places where rent is not only affordable but also sustainable, costing under 20% of household income and in some cases, as little as 15%.
Here’s a closer look at the 10 most affordable rental markets in the U.S., what makes them unique, and why renters might consider making a move.
👉 Full source here: Quartz – 10 cities with the most affordable rents in America
The 10 Most Affordable Cities for Renters
1. Bismarck, North Dakota
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Rent-to-Income Ratio: ~15% (lowest in the U.S.)
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Why It Stands Out: As the state capital, Bismarck combines government stability with growing healthcare and energy industries. Housing supply keeps pace with demand, keeping rents in check.
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Lifestyle: Outdoor lovers thrive here, with easy access to the Missouri River and national parks. It’s quiet, family-friendly, and ideal for those seeking space at a fraction of big-city costs.
2. Sioux Falls, South Dakota
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Rent-to-Income Ratio: ~16%
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Why It Stands Out: With a diversified economy spanning healthcare, finance, and retail, Sioux Falls supports steady wages and low unemployment helping renters stretch their paychecks.
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Lifestyle: Affordable housing meets cultural growth. From art festivals to a lively downtown, it offers the perks of a metro without the sky-high price tags.
3. Cheyenne, Wyoming
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Rent-to-Income Ratio: ~17%
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Why It Stands Out: Wyoming’s low taxes and growing energy sector make Cheyenne appealing. The city benefits from low-density housing and a strong sense of community.
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Lifestyle: A mix of small-town hospitality and Western heritage Cheyenne is perfect for those craving affordability with mountain views and wide-open spaces.
4. Cedar Rapids, Iowa
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Rent-to-Income Ratio: ~17%
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Why It Stands Out: Known as the “City of Five Seasons,” Cedar Rapids boasts a steady job market, particularly in manufacturing and agriculture. Rent remains low despite a steadily rising economy.
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Lifestyle: Cedar Rapids offers affordable family homes, top-rated schools, and a blossoming cultural scene, making it one of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets.
5. Fargo, North Dakota
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Rent-to-Income Ratio: ~18%
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Why It Stands Out: Fargo’s mix of agriculture, technology, and education has created a thriving local economy. Even with growth, rent affordability remains strong.
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Lifestyle: Fargo is a vibrant college town with a youthful vibe, outdoor trails, and an evolving food scene making it attractive for students and young professionals.
6. Charleston, West Virginia
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Rent-to-Income Ratio: ~18%
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Why It Stands Out: Despite being a capital city, Charleston has kept rent costs modest, largely due to a slower-growing housing demand.
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Lifestyle: Affordable housing is paired with Appalachian beauty mountains, rivers, and trails are right outside your door. Perfect for retirees and families wanting affordability plus scenery.
7. Casper, Wyoming
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Rent-to-Income Ratio: ~19%
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Why It Stands Out: As one of Wyoming’s energy hubs, Casper supports steady employment and low housing costs. Renters benefit from abundant housing supply relative to population.
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Lifestyle: Residents enjoy a mix of cowboy culture and mountain living. Casper’s affordability makes it a top pick for remote workers seeking nature without high rent.
8. Overland Park, Kansas
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Rent-to-Income Ratio: ~19%
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Why It Stands Out: A suburb of Kansas City, Overland Park is one of the fastest growing midwestern metros, combining suburban comfort with urban proximity.
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Lifestyle: Safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and plentiful parks make it especially popular for families. Renters here get space, safety, and convenience at a low cost.
9. Juneau, Alaska
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Rent-to-Income Ratio: ~19%
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Why It Stands Out: Surprisingly, Alaska’s capital ranks among the most affordable rent markets thanks to relatively high household incomes offsetting costs.
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Lifestyle: It’s a paradise for outdoor adventurers whales, glaciers, and forests are part of daily life. Though isolated, Juneau offers a rare balance of natural wonder and affordability.
10. Anchorage, Alaska
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Rent-to-Income Ratio: ~20%
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Why It Stands Out: Despite higher living costs for goods and utilities, Anchorage rent remains low compared to local income levels.
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Lifestyle: As Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage combines urban amenities with access to the wilderness. A great pick for those wanting both city life and adventure.
Why These Cities Matter for Renters
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More Savings Potential: With rents consuming only 15–20% of income, renters can save faster for a home, build an emergency fund, or invest.
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Better Quality of Life: Less financial stress means more money for experiences, travel, or family needs.
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Regional Diversity: These affordable cities span across the Midwest, Mountain West, and even Alaska showing affordability isn’t tied to one region alone.
Conclusion
While many renters feel trapped in cities where housing eats up too much of their paycheck, the WalletHub and Quartz findings show that affordable markets still exist. From the prairies of the Dakotas to the mountains of Wyoming and Alaska’s rugged charm, these 10 cities prove that rent doesn’t have to mean sacrifice.
If you’re looking to relocate, start fresh, or simply reduce your rent burden, these cities may be the key to a more balanced and more affordable life.
Source: “10 cities with the most affordable rents in America” – Quartz Read the full article here