Renting Affordability, Demand Surge Across US, Germany Cities

The U.S. rental market varies significantly by location, with cities like Overland Park, Kansas, and Scottsdale, Arizona, ranking among the best places to rent due to factors such as affordability, quality of life, and job availability, while cities like Memphis, Tennessee, rank poorly. Inflation has driven rent prices up by 5.1% year-over-year in 2024, affecting renters nationwide. The trend of increased renting is also notable among retirees aged 65 and older, who have grown by 2.4 million renters over the past decade, often choosing to rent for reasons such as downsizing or relocating closer to family. In suburban areas like Dardenne Prairie, Missouri, rapid population growth and new apartment developments have sparked local concerns about infrastructure and preserving small-town character amidst expansion. Meanwhile, in Germany, housing demand is shifting from major metropolitan cities to smaller B and C cities, where rental inquiries have increased substantially, reflecting a broader trend of people seeking more affordable and accessible housing outside major urban centers. These dynamics highlight the complexity and regional disparities in the rental housing market both in the U.S. and abroad.