Arizona continues to draw attention for its strong rental markets. According to WalletHub’s 2025 report, four Arizona cities landed in the nation’s top 10 best places to rent—Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, and Peoria.
These cities earned high marks for affordability, job growth, and quality of life. While triple-digit summer temperatures may deter some, many residents say the tradeoff is worth it.
Desert Living Offers Real Value
Scottsdale and Chandler ranked especially high in overall livability. These cities combine safe neighborhoods, strong economies, and competitive housing prices. Peoria and Gilbert followed closely behind, scoring well in rental affordability and quality-of-life factors.
WalletHub compared 180 U.S. rental markets using 21 metrics. Categories included rental affordability, average apartment size, cost of living, safety, and job market strength. Each factor was weighted to create a balanced score for prospective renters.
Arizona’s strong showing suggests the state remains a smart choice for families, remote workers, and retirees alike.
The National Picture: Big Cities Lag Behind
Overland Park, Kansas, claimed the No. 1 spot nationwide. With an average home size over 2,800 square feet and rents consuming just 17% of local income, it offers both space and savings.
New York City, by contrast, placed 83rd. While the city earned high marks for lifestyle perks and economic opportunity, it scored poorly in rental affordability. The average New Yorker spends a large chunk of their income on housing—ranking the city 159th in that category.
Still, NYC’s high rent-to-price ratio means renting may be smarter than buying. But that also reflects how many would-be buyers are priced out.
Memphis Ranks Last, But Homeownership Is Cheap
Memphis, Tennessee, landed at the bottom of the list. While it’s an affordable place to buy a home, rental market conditions are weak. WalletHub cited low job growth and public safety concerns as contributing factors.
Back in Arizona, the trend is clear: despite the heat, the state offers a winning mix of affordability and quality living. For renters seeking space, opportunity, and sunshine, the Grand Canyon State remains a top pick.
