Rental Demand Trends Midwest, South Lead for 2026

Rental demand surges in Midwest and Southern cities, led by Cincinnati, Atlanta, and Minneapolis, ahead of the 2026 leasing season.

February 17, 2026

Nina Dale

Rental demand is highest in Cincinnati, Atlanta, and Minneapolis for early 2026.
The Midwest claims 11 of the top 30 trending rental cities, leading all US regions.
Southern markets remain strong, with Atlanta and Baltimore in the national top five.
El Paso, TX, saw the largest jump in renter activity, climbing 115 spots to #28.

Key Takeaways

Renter Activity Intensifies Nationwide

As the 2026 rental season approaches, online search and listing engagement data highlight shifting demand in apartment markets. RentCafe.com reports early momentum in cities like Cincinnati, Atlanta, and Minneapolis, where saved searches and favorited listings are rising ahead of the typical summer peak. While activity usually slows near year-end, these markets sustained strong engagement through late 2025, hinting at increased competition and early decision-making by renters.

Renter engagement levels across the 150 largest US cities, highlighting strong rental demand in Midwest and Southern markets ahead of 2026.

Midwest and South Dominate the Rankings

The Midwest emerges as the top region, with 11 cities among the 30 most in-demand for 2026 rentals. Cincinnati leads the nation, boosted by a 3% rise in page views and an 81% surge in favorited listings. Minneapolis and Cleveland also rank high as job markets and urban revitalization continue to draw relocators. Recent quarterly data previously showed Cincinnati outperforming other major metros in renter engagement, reinforcing the Midwest’s sustained momentum. In the South, Atlanta and Baltimore secure prominent spots, reflecting ongoing migration to affordable regional hubs. The South claims 10 of the top 30 cities, not far behind the Midwest.

Cincinnati, OH: #1 overall, notable for an 81% increase in favorites and major employer diversity.
Atlanta, GA: #2 nationally, with consistent engagement and tight inventory.
Minneapolis, MN: #3, lifted by intent-driven searches from students and professionals.
Washington, D.C.: #4, maintains strong demand despite a slight dip year-over-year.
Baltimore, MD: #5, a cost-effective alternative to D.C. with increased activity.
Other notable entrants: San Jose, CA (#7, up 80 spots); Birmingham, AL (#10, up 29 spots); and El Paso, TX (#28, up 115 spots).

Top 10 US cities with the highest rental demand heading into the 2026 leasing season, led by Cincinnati, Atlanta, and Minneapolis.

Why It Matters

These rental demand trends suggest early competition heading into 2026, especially in the Midwest and South. Cities with robust job growth, new amenities, and relative affordability are pulling in apartment seekers from pricier coastlines. Renters looking to secure housing for the next season may benefit from starting searches earlier, as demand in these cities is already ramping up.

What’s Next

As 2026 approaches, regional strengths are expected to play a defining role in US rental demand. The Midwest and South will likely remain in focus, with continued migration from high-cost areas and strong employment prospects. Renters and investors alike should watch trending cities for early signs of activity, shaping strategies ahead of the summer leasing surge.