United States – Finding Property to Rent

Where do most expats rent in the United States?

The United States spans an enormous and diverse geography, and the ideal place to settle depends greatly on your personal circumstances, income, and reasons for relocating. That said, certain metropolitan areas consistently attract a higher concentration of international residents, owing to their employment opportunities, established expat communities, transport links, and overall quality of life.

Washington, D.C. has cemented its reputation as one of the most desirable rental destinations for internationally mobile professionals. The D.C. metro area claims the top position among the nation’s most liveable cities, leads the country in new downtown apartment supply, and attracted the greatest volume of apartment-seeker interest in the first half of 2025. Districts such as Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan, together with nearby Arlington in Virginia, host large diplomatic and international populations and benefit from strong public transport and a wide selection of international schools.

New York City continues to exert a powerful pull on newcomers from around the world, though its rental market is among the most fiercely competitive anywhere in the country. The availability of Manhattan apartments has historically been tight, and in 2025 stock tightened further as two-thirds of existing tenants chose to renew rather than move on. International residents frequently look to Astoria in Queens, or to Hoboken and Jersey City in New Jersey, as more affordable bases with straightforward access to central Manhattan.

Texas cities — Austin, Dallas, and Houston in particular — have grown into leading destinations for internationally relocating professionals and families. More than half of all new apartment completions across the country in 2025 were delivered in the South, with Texas markets at the forefront; Austin ranked first nationally for new apartment construction and earned recognition as the country’s premier luxury-for-less location. The absence of a state income tax, a warm climate, and a buoyant jobs market have helped Texas cities feature prominently in liveability rankings.

Miami and South Florida draw substantial Latin American and European communities, attracted by year-round warm weather, a multilingual culture, and deep international business connections. Miami’s rental market is highly competitive, with strong demand for a limited supply of properties. Neighbourhoods such as Brickell, Coral Gables, and Coconut Grove are especially sought-after among internationally mobile households who also require access to good international schools.

Seattle holds strong appeal for expats working in the technology sector, with Amazon and Microsoft both maintaining major campuses in the area. The city continues to draw skilled workers through its tech-driven economy, offering everything from urban apartments to modern condominiums and waterfront residences. Capitol Hill and South Lake Union are among the most popular neighbourhoods for people arriving from abroad.

Charlotte, Raleigh, and Atlanta in the Southeast present a persuasive blend of value, employment growth, and well-established communities. Charlotte’s sustained population expansion and its growing financial services industry have made it an increasingly attractive destination, with a relatively low cost of living that suits both families and individual professionals. Atlanta consistently scores well for economic vitality and cost of living, and has established itself as a perennial top rental market with broad career prospects across multiple industries.

What are the main property rental websites in the United States?

The U.S. rental market is supported by a handful of large national property portals. In contrast to countries where agency intermediaries dominate, a significant proportion of American landlords and property management companies advertise directly on these platforms, making them an indispensable first port of call for any rental search.

• Zillow — One of the largest real estate platforms in the country, Zillow offers an exceptionally broad database covering rentals alongside sales, valuations, and mortgage products. The site draws more than 30 million visitors each month, and its listings are automatically syndicated to Trulia and HotPads, extending your search reach without any additional effort.
• Apartments.com — Apartments.com and its affiliated sites collectively attract over 50 million monthly visitors, with listings simultaneously appearing on ApartmentFinder, Apartamentos.com, ApartmentHomeLiving, and ForRent.com. The platform concentrates on larger apartment complexes and condominium communities rather than individual private landlords, and has particularly strong coverage in major urban centres.
• Trulia — Trulia distinguishes itself through its detailed neighbourhood intelligence tools, offering crime mapping, school performance ratings, and public transport assessments that are especially valuable for newcomers who are unfamiliar with U.S. cities. As part of the Zillow Group, Trulia shares its listings network across the same portfolio of platforms.
• Realtor.com — Operated by the National Association of Realtors, this site carries both rental and sales listings and is well regarded for the accuracy and currency of its data. For those who anticipate purchasing property in the U.S. further down the line, Realtor.com also offers comprehensive buying guides and market analysis.
• HotPads — A popular rental-focused platform within the Zillow Group, HotPads offers an intuitive map-based interface that allows renters to explore different neighbourhoods and their available properties at a glance.
• Zumper — Zumper consolidates rental listings from multiple sources and provides additional tools for tenant screening and online rent collection. It is particularly well established in major metropolitan markets.
• Redfin — A technology-driven real estate brokerage, Redfin includes rental listings alongside its sales inventory and is recognised for maintaining accurate, timely listing data together with detailed neighbourhood profiles.

All of the platforms above are in English and fully accessible from overseas, making it straightforward to conduct research before you land in the U.S. For those arriving as international students or on corporate assignments, uhomes.com is specifically designed with the international market in mind: it offers verified listings, virtual reality tours, and on-site video inspections so you can assess properties remotely, backed by dedicated advisors who can provide personalised recommendations and guide you through the application process from your home country.

Are there letting agencies or relocation agents expats commonly use?

While high-street letting agents dominate rental markets in many countries, the U.S. system operates somewhat differently, with much of the market channelled through online portals and professional property management companies. Nevertheless, real estate agents and specialist relocation firms remain an important resource, particularly in competitive urban markets or for employer-sponsored moves.

Local real estate agents and brokers can prove invaluable, particularly in cities like New York or Boston where a meaningful share of the best rental stock never surfaces on public listing platforms. In certain markets, the majority of available rentals never reach the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), meaning that working with a local agency gives you access to a far broader inventory than any aggregator site can offer. In most states, agents act for either the landlord or the tenant — not both simultaneously — and their commission is ordinarily covered by the landlord, although this practice varies by location. In New York City, historically it has been common for tenants to pay broker fees, which can be substantial (frequently equivalent to one month’s rent), so always establish who is responsible for the fee before you engage anyone.

Corporate and international relocation specialists are routinely employed by companies moving staff to the United States. Leading providers in this space include:

• SIRVA Worldwide Relocation — one of the world’s largest relocation companies, providing comprehensive destination services that include home-finding assistance across U.S. cities.
• Cartus — a major player in corporate relocation serving multinational organisations transferring employees to and within the United States.
• BGRS (BrightMove Relocation Services) — focused on international and domestic corporate relocations, including rental support and settlement assistance.
• Graebel Companies — delivers relocation management and destination services, including property search support for professionals on the move.

If your employer is covering your relocation costs, speak to your HR department about whether a relocation management company (RMC) forms part of your package, as these services can dramatically reduce the burden of finding suitable accommodation ahead of your arrival. Independent destination service providers (DSPs) also operate in most major cities and can organise accompanied property viewings, school searches, and neighbourhood orientation tours tailored to your family’s needs.

What other ways can expats find rental properties?

Outside of the main property portals, a range of other channels can help expats locate rental homes in the United States — particularly for furnished or short-term accommodation, or for building connections before you set foot in the country.

Facebook Groups and social media are widely relied upon for this purpose. Searching for groups along the lines of “Expats in [city name]”, “[City] Housing and Apartments”, or “[City] Newcomers” on Facebook will often turn up active communities where landlords post directly and where members exchange housing tips. Facebook Marketplace additionally functions as a classifieds platform where landlords can advertise rental properties at no cost, and prospective tenants can sort results by location, property type, and price. Always exercise caution with Marketplace listings, and make sure you see a property in person or over a live video call before committing any funds.

Craigslist (craigslist.org) continues to be a widely used classifieds platform for rental listings, particularly from smaller independent landlords. With over 100 million monthly visits, it represents a substantial source of local rental inventory and covers a broad spectrum of “mom and pop” rentals alongside apartment communities and professionally managed buildings. Fraudulent listings do appear on Craigslist more frequently than on curated platforms, so exercise additional vigilance and always verify listings thoroughly before making any payment.

Expat forums and community websites such as InterNations and ExpatForum.com maintain active U.S. sections where members share housing suggestions, neighbourhood assessments, and occasional direct rental leads. The r/expats subreddit and city-specific Reddit communities — such as r/newyorkcity, r/chicago, and r/austin — are also widely consulted for frank, experience-based housing guidance.

Short-term and furnished accommodation platforms including Airbnb, Furnished Finder, and Corporate Housing by Owner (CHBO) are commonly used by expats during their initial weeks in the country while they search for a longer-term home. This is a well-established approach: securing a furnished apartment or serviced flat for one to three months on arrival gives you time to explore different neighbourhoods before committing to a full lease.

Employer and university networks represent another resource that is often underutilised. If you are relocating for work or academic study, your company’s HR team or your institution’s international student office may hold lists of vetted landlords or off-campus housing notice boards. Many American landlords engage property management companies to handle their properties, and these companies typically maintain searchable websites through which prospective tenants can browse listings and submit applications directly, with on-site property managers available to handle day-to-day issues.

What should expats expect from the rental application process?

The rental application process in the United States can feel more rigorous than in many other countries, especially for those who arrive without an established U.S. credit profile. Knowing what landlords expect — and assembling your documents ahead of time — will materially increase your likelihood of securing a home quickly.

Step-by-step: How to apply for a rental in the United States

1. Research properties and draw up a shortlist using one or more of the major portals (Zillow, Apartments.com, Trulia, and so on) or through a local agent. Make use of virtual tour options if you are still searching from your home country.
2. Schedule viewings — in person if you are already stateside, or via live video call with the landlord or agent if you are still abroad. Always confirm that the property is genuine before paying any fees.
3. Submit a formal rental application, which will include a completed application form and supporting paperwork. Expect to pay a non-refundable application fee of $20–$100 per applicant, with fees at the higher end common in major cities (as of 2025).
4. Provide the necessary documentation. If you are not a U.S. citizen, the landlord will need to assess your capacity to pay rent. You will generally be asked for proof of identity (such as a passport or driver’s licence), evidence of employment (for example, a signed offer letter), and documentation confirming your immigration status, which helps the landlord gauge how long you intend to remain.
5. Undergo a credit check. This is standard practice across the United States. If you have no U.S. credit history — which is typical for recent arrivals — you may need to offer alternative indicators of financial reliability, such as recent bank statements, an employer reference letter, or an international credit report.
6. Arrange a guarantor or co-signer if needed. Where you lack a domestic credit record, enquire whether the landlord will accept a guarantor — also known as a co-signer — who agrees to cover rent payments should you be unable to. Larger apartment operators often have fixed policies on this matter, and a growing number are prepared to accommodate international tenants in exchange for a higher upfront deposit. Third-party guarantor services such as TheGuarantors or Insurent can fulfil this role for a fee, offering a practical alternative for those without a local contact willing to co-sign.
7. Receive approval and execute the lease. Once your application is successful, read the lease in full before you sign it. All lease agreements should be in English, and retaining a signed copy for your own records is essential.
8. Pay upfront costs and take possession of the keys. Upon acceptance, you will be required to pay the security deposit (ordinarily one month’s rent, though this may be higher for international tenants), along with first month’s rent prior to moving in; a pet deposit or amenities fee may also apply.

The procedures and documentation requirements are broadly the same whether you are an immigrant or a U.S. citizen, though as an overseas national you will likely need to supply additional evidence of financial stability. Being organised, forthcoming, and well-prepared with your paperwork will considerably strengthen your position with prospective landlords.

What are the typical costs involved in renting in the United States?

There is no single national framework governing all rental costs in the United States. Deposit limits, permissible fees, and rent increase rules are all determined at state level — and in some cases at city level — meaning that the amount you need to produce upfront can differ substantially depending on your location. Always confirm current requirements with a local agent or the relevant state housing authority, as these regulations are subject to change.

Security deposits are subject to statutory caps that differ between states. In Arizona, for instance, a landlord may charge a maximum security deposit equivalent to two months’ rent (as of 2025). States such as California impose their own caps, while others impose no upper limit at all. Unlike the mandatory deposit protection schemes operating in the United Kingdom, U.S. landlords are not uniformly required to hold deposits in a ring-fenced protected account, although many states do impose this obligation — always check what applies in your specific state. A 2023 survey found that more than 25% of U.S. renters had experienced unfair deposit deductions at least once, which underlines the importance of photographing the property’s condition thoroughly at the time of move-in.

Agency fees in the United States are generally borne by the landlord rather than the tenant — a notable difference from a number of other rental markets. New York City is the principal exception, where tenants have historically been required to pay broker fees, though this practice has faced legal scrutiny. Always clarify the fee arrangement with any agent before proceeding.

Utilities are frequently excluded from the rent. While some landlords offer all-inclusive arrangements covering heating, water, and electricity, this is not common practice. Confirm in writing precisely what the quoted rent does and does not cover, and budget separately for electricity, gas, water, and internet unless you have written confirmation that they are included.

What types of rental contract are common, and what should expats look out for?

Rental contracts — referred to as “lease agreements” in the United States — are almost always written in English and carry full legal force. In contrast to the relatively standardised tenancy documents found in some European countries, U.S. leases can vary considerably in their terms and structure depending on the landlord, the state, and whether the property is part of a large managed development or a private letting.

Fixed-term leases of 12 months represent the most common arrangement. Most landlords expect tenants to commit to a one-year term, though shorter-term options exist — particularly in corporate housing complexes — and these typically carry a meaningful price premium. Month-to-month arrangements offer greater flexibility but generally attract a rent surcharge of 10–20% above the standard lease rate.

Rent reviews and increases are handled very differently depending on where you are in the country. A landlord does not have the right to alter the rent unilaterally during the term of a fixed lease, unless the lease itself contains a specific provision permitting this. Rent control legislation exists in certain cities — most notably New York City and San Francisco — and places limits on how far landlords can push rents upward. Across most of the country, however, there are no such restrictions, and landlords are free to set rents to market levels at lease renewal. Always investigate whether your city operates any form of rent stabilisation before you sign.

Key points to review before signing your lease:

• Read the lease terms in their entirety. They will define your rights and obligations, the conditions under which you may occupy the property, how utilities are handled, and the specific terms governing rent payment and any future increases.
• Early termination clauses: Examine these provisions with particular care. Federal law provides special protections for military personnel facing deployment, and many states extend lease-breaking rights to victims of domestic violence, but job relocation is generally not treated as automatic grounds for early termination without penalty.
• Notice periods: The majority of U.S. leases require written notice of 30 to 60 days prior to vacating. Failure to provide adequate notice can expose you to liability for additional rent or result in the forfeiture of your deposit.
• Pet and modification clauses: Acquiring a pet without the landlord’s consent, or otherwise breaching building rules, will typically give the landlord grounds to begin eviction proceedings. In properties governed by a Homeowners’ Association (HOA), additional rules and fees may apply on top of the standard lease terms.
• Subletting: Most standard U.S. leases prohibit subletting without prior written consent from the landlord. If you anticipate needing to sublet — due to extended travel or work commitments — ensure this is addressed explicitly in the lease before you sign.

What are the legal rights and protections for tenants in the United States?

Tenant protections in the United States are structured across federal, state, and local tiers. There is no single national tenancy authority, but a core set of protections applies throughout the country, with individual states and municipalities building further rights on top of this federal foundation.

Federal protections include the Fair Housing Act, which forbids discrimination in housing on the grounds of race, colour, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and familial status. Under these federal provisions, landlords are prohibited from treating tenants differently on account of their national origin or accent. Unlawful conduct includes refusing to rent, imposing different lease conditions, and falsely claiming that a property is unavailable. Complaints can be submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The HUD website sets out your rights in detail and explains how to make a formal discrimination complaint.

Every tenant has rights that apply at the local, state, and federal levels. Familiarise yourself with both federal protections and the specific tenant rights that apply in your rental location — understanding what is legally protected will clarify your expectations and give you confidence throughout your tenancy. State attorneys general offices and local housing courts are key points of contact when problems arise.

Protections commonly available in most states include:

• The right to occupy a property that meets basic habitability standards (landlords must maintain functioning heating, plumbing, and structural integrity)
• The right to have your security deposit returned within a defined period following the end of your tenancy (typically 14–30 days, depending on the state), accompanied by an itemised schedule of any deductions
• Protection against unlawful eviction (a landlord must follow a formal court process to remove a tenant)
• The right to quiet enjoyment of your home free from unlawful entry by the landlord
• In some states, tenants are entitled to deduct the cost of necessary repairs from rent where the landlord has failed to respond — but you must document everything thoroughly and notify the landlord in writing before taking this step. Routine maintenance issues such as leaking taps, heating failures, and pest infestations are the landlord’s responsibility, not the tenant’s.

Where to turn if a dispute arises:

• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) — for complaints relating to fair housing and discriminatory practices
• State Attorney General’s office — for landlord-tenant disputes; most states dedicate a section of their website to tenant rights guidance
• Local housing courts / small claims courts — for deposit disputes and other relatively minor disagreements; these forums are inexpensive and generally accessible without legal representation
• LawHelp.org — provides free legal information and connects users with legal aid organisations on a state-by-state basis, which is particularly useful for those who cannot afford private legal advice
• Local tenant unions and advocacy groups — many cities have active tenant organisations that offer guidance, practical support, and in some cases free legal representation

Commit everything to writing — do not rely solely on verbal assurances or informal messages. Your lease agreement defines your rights, responsibilities, and protections, and most states have robust rules in place to safeguard tenants who understand and assert them.

Frequently asked questions

Can a foreign national rent a property in the United States without a visa?

Yes — non-U.S. citizens are permitted to rent homes in the United States. No federal legislation prevents foreign nationals from leasing property, but your immigration status will factor into the application: landlords will typically ask to see documentation confirming your status in order to understand how long you plan to remain in the country. If your current authorisation only permits a further six months of stay, a landlord has reasonable grounds to decline a 12-month lease application. Make sure your visa or immigration status covers the full duration of the lease you intend to sign.

What are the typical upfront costs when renting in the United States?

As of 2025, you should expect to pay an application fee of $20–$100 per person, a security deposit of one to two months’ rent, and first month’s rent — all of which are generally due before or on the date you move in. Some landlords additionally require the final month’s rent to be paid at the outset. Pet deposits and amenities charges may increase the total further. In New York City, a broker fee — often equivalent to one month’s rent — may be payable if you engage an agent. Always confirm the exact requirements directly with the landlord or letting agent, as figures can vary substantially depending on the market.

Are furnished properties common in the United States?

Unfurnished rentals are the standard for mainstream long-term leases throughout the United States. Unlike in some countries where basic furnishings are routinely provided, the vast majority of American apartments and houses available on long-term leases are offered empty, with kitchen appliances such as a refrigerator or dishwasher occasionally included but furniture almost never. Furnished options are available — generally at a notable premium — through short-term and corporate housing platforms such as Furnished Finder, Corporate Housing by Owner, and Airbnb. If a furnished property is what you need, search explicitly for “furnished apartments” or “corporate housing” on the main property portals.

How do I rent without a U.S. credit history?

Lacking a U.S. credit history is one of the most frequently encountered obstacles for new arrivals. Practical approaches include: supplying supplementary documentation such as recent bank statements, a signed employment offer letter, or an international credit report; offering a larger upfront deposit — some landlords will accept two to three months’ rent in lieu of a credit history; enlisting a guarantor service such as TheGuarantors or Insurent; or requesting that your employer provide a formal letter confirming your role and remuneration. Landlords are increasingly open to accommodating international tenants against a larger deposit, and presenting your situation honestly and in an organised manner will greatly improve your prospects.

How can I avoid rental scams in the United States?

Fraudulent listings are a genuine risk, particularly on less regulated platforms, where scammers attempt to extract deposits for properties that do not exist or are not available to rent. Warning signs include rents significantly below market value, landlords who are unable or unwilling to show the property in person, demands for payment by wire transfer or gift card, and pressure to hand over money before a lease has been signed. Always verify that the property is real by inspecting it in person or through a live video call, confirm the landlord’s identity independently, use traceable payment methods, and never part with a deposit until you hold a signed lease agreement.

How much notice do I need to give before leaving a rental?

Most U.S. lease agreements require written notice of between 30 and 60 days before you vacate. The precise requirement will be set out in your lease and may also be stipulated by state law. Failing to provide adequate written notice on time can leave you liable for additional rent or result in deductions from your security deposit. Always submit your notice in writing — email is widely accepted for this purpose, but check your lease to confirm the required method of communication.

Is renter’s insurance required in the United States?

Renter’s insurance — sometimes called tenant’s insurance — is not mandated by federal law, but many landlords and property management companies make it a condition of the lease. Even in cases where it is not compulsory, taking out a policy is strongly recommended: it covers the cost of replacing your personal belongings if they are lost or damaged through fire, vandalism, or theft. Renter’s insurance is generally very affordable in the United States — monthly premiums typically fall in the range of $15 to $30 for standard coverage — and policies can be arranged quickly online through providers such as Lemonade, State Farm, or Nationwide.

What should I do when I move out to ensure I get my deposit back?

When ending a tenancy, serve the required written notice within the timeframe specified in your lease (ordinarily 30 to 60 days), clean the property to the standard described in your agreement, photograph every room thoroughly, and if at all possible carry out a formal inspection walkthrough with the landlord before handing back the keys. Retain copies of all written correspondence and your move-in condition photographs so that you are in a position to contest any deductions you consider unreasonable. If your deposit is withheld without valid justification, you can bring a claim through your state’s small claims court — a process that is relatively straightforward and inexpensive in most states.