Home / Business and Economy / Renters Lose Space: $1,500 Buys Less Apartment
Renters Lose Space: $1,500 Buys Less Apartment
23 Jul
Summary
- Renters nationwide get 703 sq ft for $1,500, down from last year.
- McAllen, Texas offers the most space: 1,378 sq ft for $1,500.
- Manhattan offers the least space: 210 sq ft for $1,500.
The amount of income spent on rent has surged, with nearly half of renter households allocating over 30% of their earnings to housing and utilities as of 2024. This trend, driven by rising rental prices and slower wage growth, has prompted many to seek more affordable living situations.
A recent analysis by RentCafe ranked 200 major U.S. cities based on apartment size per $1,500 monthly rent. Nationally, renters can expect an average of 703 square feet, a decrease of 12 square feet compared to 2025.
Affordability varies greatly, with Southern and Midwestern cities generally offering better value. McAllen, Texas, leads the rankings, providing 1,378 square feet for $1,500, sufficient for three to four bedrooms. Other cities like Macon and Columbus in Georgia, and Wichita and Jackson in Kansas, also offer substantial space.
Conversely, some major cities offer significantly less. In 2026, Manhattan renters receive only 210 square feet for $1,500, a stark contrast to McAllen's offerings. In fact, a $1,500 budget was insufficient for even a studio apartment in 26 analyzed cities, predominantly located in California.
