For the second consecutive year, McKinney, Texas, has been named the best city for renters by RentCafe. In addition to McKinney, Southern cities dominated the 2026 rankings, with 37 of the top 50 spots.
RentCafe’s rankings were based on 20 key metrics, including the selection and quality of apartments available, commute times, occupancy rates, and job growth opportunities. All the metrics were given certain weights and were gathered under three main categories: cost of living and housing; local economy; and quality of life.
To take the No. 1 spot, McKinney ranks third in cost of living and housing and ninth in quality of life. About 85% of the rentals are high-end, and nearly 65% are in prime locations. Renter incomes also are up 36%. Plus, it boasts 3,000 acres of parks and 80 miles of trails…