Austin renters are the most mobile in the nation
Where and How Often Do Renters Move?
Nationwide, renters who move to a different apartment within their area in under two years represent 38% of all apartment renters on the move, according to new data from RentCafe.
The reasons for moving are often related to finding jobs and better housing — trends that still hold firm even with the rise of remote work.
Highlights of the report:
- Austin renters are the most mobile in the nation; 54% relocated within the metro in just two years. The share of Austin renters moving this frequently surged by 34% between 2018 and 2023.
- In Provo, Utah (No. 2), 60% of renters switched homes within just two years, which is the highest share of any metro area. This metro’s moving pace is also accelerating as the share of frequent movers increased by nearly 22% in just five years.
- Charleston, NC (No. 3) recorded the biggest jump in highly mobile renters nationwide: The share of those moving within two years grew 44% in just five years. Today, more than half (55%) of renters are changing apartments that quickly.
- Gen Z renters moving very frequently in their areas make up 72% of movers in this age group.
Free Rental Application
Get 20 Rental Forms for FREE, including a rental application.
“This high frequency of moving largely stems from Gen Z’s typical life stage during these years: navigating college, early careers, relationship changes, and establishing independence — all common triggers for moving into a new place.
“By comparison, millennials moved less often in 2023, with 43% of them doing so within two years. This highlights how millennials — who are generally further along in careers and personal lives — have different priorities, likely influenced by stability needs and market pressures that are distinct from the typical Gen Z renter experience.
“Gen X and Baby Boomers showcase even less frequent moves during those five years. For both groups, the dominant trend is staying put, reflecting the greater stability that’s common during these life stages,” the report says.
Why do so many renters move?
A recent RentCafe.com survey on renter preferences offers some answers on that — directly from renters themselves. Specifically, it highlights that:
- In terms of lifestyle, renters prefer suburban living, with 41% drawn to greener, amenity-rich neighborhoods.
- When it comes to the neighborhood itself, safety tops the list (54% call it their top priority), followed by walkability (39%).
- Perks also influence moving decisions, with 41% of renters favoring lower rent for signing a longer lease.
Source: Rental Housing Journal
Accessibility