The Brief
- A new WalletHub analysis of 182 U.S. rental markets ranked Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Chandler Arizona as the top three cities for renters in 2026.
- The study found renting may offer a great value in many cities by evaluating 21 factors, including affordability, cost of living, employment opportunities, renter protections, traffic, weather, and recreation.
- Zillow reported the typical U.S. asking rent reached $1,910 in March, up 1.8% year over year—the slowest annual increase since 2020.
A new national analysis suggests that renting may offer more value than buying in many parts of the country, particularly in cities where housing costs remain manageable and quality-of-life amenities are strong.
New data by WalletHub compared 182 rental markets across the United States using 21 metrics, including rental affordability, cost of living, job opportunities and quality-of-life factors.
Arizona cities are best place to rent
By the numbers:
Arizona dominated the top of the rankings, with Scottsdale, Gilbert and Chandler claiming the top three spots as the best places for renters in 2026.…