Arizona Tops 2025 List of Best U.S. Cities for Renters

If you’ve had enough of sky-high rents in New York City and aren’t afraid of the desert heat, Arizona might just be calling your name.

According to WalletHub’s 2025 annual report on the best and worst U.S. cities for renters, Arizona dominated the top rankings, claiming four out of the top ten spots. Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, and Peoria stood out for offering renters the best combination of affordability and quality of life, a rare mix in today’s competitive housing market.

WalletHub’s 2025 study compared 180 U.S. metro areas using metrics like rent costs, rent changes, job-market conditions, and quality-of-life factors. For renters across the country, especially those priced out of major markets like New York, these findings offer a valuable guide for where they might find better value and a higher standard of living.

Topping the list is Overland Park, Kansas, a mid-sized suburb of Kansas City that earned the highest overall score in WalletHub’s ranking. Overland Park stood out for its large average home size, about 2,809 sq. ft., and low rent burden, with residents spending only 17% of their income on rent, placing it among the best-ranked metros. Overland Park residents enjoy the largest average home size in the country, 2,809 sq ft, and spend only around 17% of their income on rent, making it one of the most affordable metro areas. 

Still, Arizona stands out for placing four cities, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, and Peoria, into WalletHub’s top 100°F, its lower rents, strong job outlook, and high quality of life list for renters.. Although summer temperatures in Arizona can continue to draw in new residents. Cities like Scottsdale and Chandler are praised not only for affordability but also for offering amenities and community features that make everyday life more enjoyable.

Meanwhile, New York City, known for its culture, economy, and fast pace, continues to struggle when it comes to rental affordability. In WalletHub’s 2025 rankings, the city landed in 83rd place overall. Despite its high rent prices, the Big Apple still managed decent scores in satisfaction and safety, reflecting the deep connection many people feel to life in the city. It also ranked high in rent-to-price ratio, suggesting that for many, renting still makes more financial sense than buying in New York.

Still, with nearly 46 million American households renting their homes, these rankings matter more than ever. They offer a clear picture of where people can stretch their dollars without sacrificing their quality of life. For those considering a change, especially renters hoping to escape the financial pressures of big-city life, Arizona may be an option worth serious consideration.