Rental market research,
built from the numbers.

Original RentCaliber analysis using transparent assumptions, current market data and downloadable results.

See how studies are produced in our research and corrections standards, or visit the press and data page for downloads and media requests.

2026 national study · new

Rent or buy? Renting is cheaper in 328 of 339 cities.

The monthly cost of owning the typical home against the typical rent, the year buying breaks even and the income each option requires, city by city.

Updated November 12, 2026 · Dataset, charts and 339 city pages
2026 national study

Where rental properties still cash flow.

We modeled 339 large U.S. cities. Only 6 produced positive monthly cash flow under the same current financing and expense assumptions.

Updated November 12, 2026 · Dataset and methodology included