Known as “hyper-movers,” this group’s desire for wanderlust is often prompted by the need for lower rents, more space or amenities, safer neighborhoods, or walkability to downtown areas.
According to the report, 54 percent of renters surveyed said safety is their top concern, followed by 41 percent who desire more suburban locations and lower rents.
Demographically, Generation Z (those between the ages of 18 and 28) represents 72 percent of hyper-movers. The report indicates that for many of these younger movers, the common triggers for moving to a new place have been college, early careers, and relationship changes.
“Remote work was also key,” the report reads. “Initially, it allowed moves based on lifestyle or cost, not just commute. But then, return-to-office mandates sometimes prompted quick moves back near jobs or required job changes in order to remain remote, thereby causing further quick moves.”
Austin, Texas, was named the country’s top “move-easy” hot spot, with 54 percent of renters moving to a different apartment in less than two years. As one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States, Austin has been known for attracting new residents from across the country. Its share of renters has grown by 5.8 percent in the past five years.
The new supply of rental units in the city is said to be the catalyst for creating incentives for renters to engage in apartment hopping in search of better deals or locations. RentCafe lists the average monthly rent for an Austin apartment at $1,666 for about 863 square feet.
Provo, Utah, claimed the second-most popular spot for frequent renters, with 60 percent of its renters choosing a new location in less than two years. The city’s share of renters has grown by 30.6 percent, and the supply of available apartments by 33 percent.
Provo is also home to Brigham Young University and the “Silicon Slopes” tech region, both of which are constantly attracting renters, particularly Gen Z and millennials (ages 29 to 44). The city has an average rent rate of $1,829 per month, which gives renters 910 square feet.
In third place, Charleston, South Carolina, saw 55 percent of renters move to a new place.
What’s unique to Charleston is that the city is attracting multigenerational renters, from Gen Z to baby boomers (ages 61 to 79). The average rent is $2,099 per month, providing close to 1,000 square feet.
Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Denver placed fourth and fifth on the list. With average monthly rents of $1,363 and $1,935, respectively, both cities are attracting newcomers seeking a change of scenery.
Both the University of Arkansas and a booming local economy are coaxing new renters to the area in Fayetteville, while Denver’s big draws are its outdoor lifestyle and job opportunities.
Completing the top 10 list of easy-move cities are Salt Lake City; Boise, Idaho; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Orlando; and Des Moines, Iowa.
Comparatively, some of the lowest-scoring easy-move metro areas include Chicago; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; Riverside, California; Sarasota, Florida; and Oklahoma City.
