Are These the Most Competitive Rental Markets This Year?

January’s rental market saw some major shifts, with Washington, D.C. holding onto the top spot as the most in-demand city for renters. Atlanta and St. Paul, MN, followed close behind, with St. Paul seeing a 114% surge in favorited listings. The South dominated the rankings, with 14 of the top 30 cities located in the region, while the Midwest also saw strong interest. Meanwhile, Las Vegas made a shocking 69-spot leap, landing just outside the top 10.

What’s driving these trends? Affordability, job growth, and migration patterns are shaping where renters are looking in 2025. Cities with lower costs of living and strong job markets—like Cincinnati and Kansas City—are seeing increased demand, while high-cost areas in the Northeast are struggling to attract renters.

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