Posts

What is off-campus housing? A first-time renter’s guide

RentCafe rental blog If you’re heading to college or graduate school, you’ve probably heard the term off-campus housing. But what does this term mean, exactly? For many, this is the first time signing a lease, paying monthly rent, and dealing with a landlord. Understanding life in an off-campus apartment is important because it works differently from living in… The post What is off-campus housing? A first-time renter’s guide appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . February 26, 2026 at 08:19PM

A renter’s guide to public transport in St. Paul, MN

RentCafe rental blog Renting an apartment in Minnesota often involves planning how you will travel each day. Public transit in St. Paul is an important factor for many renters because it provides reliable ways to commute, visit neighborhoods, and stay connected without depending on a car. Here are the top St. Paul public transport options for a car-free… The post A renter’s guide to public transport in St. Paul, MN appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . February 27, 2026 at 07:22PM

What is a micro-apartment? A renter’s guide to small-space living

RentCafe rental blog Finding a place that fits your budget can feel tough. That’s why more renters are considering micro-apartments during their apartment hunt. These small units focus on efficiency and location rather than square footage. For some renters, especially young professionals, students, or people who spend a lot of time outside their home, smaller apartments can make… The post What is a micro-apartment? A renter’s guide to small-space living appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . February 27, 2026 at 05:23PM

January 2026 self storage report: Rents hold steady nationwide as market enters third month of stabilization

RentCafe rental blog National street rates held at $133 per month in January 2026, unchanged both year-over-year and month-over-month. Boston, MA, and Montgomery, AL, posted the strongest annual gains at 14.9% and 14.1%, respectively, driven by supply constraints. Spring Valley, NV, recorded the steepest decline at -7.8% year-over-year as Las Vegas metro inventory continues to expand. Houston, TX,… The post January 2026 self storage report: Rents hold steady nationwide as market enters third month of stabilization appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . February 26, 2026 at 01:10PM

What is a lease extension? A renter’s guide to staying put

RentCafe rental blog If you’ve ever glanced at your lease and realized the expiration date is just weeks away, you might be feeling a bit of panic. Many renters feel pressure as that deadline approaches. Should you start apartment hunting? Commit to another full year? Or try something more flexible like a lease extension? A lease extension can… The post What is a lease extension? A renter’s guide to staying put appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . 2026-02-26T08:18:18Z

RentCafe makes it easy to check one important item off your move-in checklist: renters insurance

RentCafe rental blog Good news: RentCafe applicants now have a convenient way to sign up for renters insurance as soon as their application is approved.    Renters insurance is typically mandatory for any apartment lease. To meet this requirement, you can enroll* directly through the RentCafe portal as soon as your apartment application is approved. This service, offered through RentCafe’s sister division, ResidentShield, is a simple, affordable way… The post RentCafe makes it easy to check one important item off your move-in checklist: renters insurance appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . 2026-02-24T13:20:01Z

These are the best affordable neighborhoods to rent in San Jose, CA

RentCafe rental blog San Jose is one of California’s most dynamic cities, but it’s also one of the priciest, making affordable neighborhoods harder to find. The average rent here is $3,087, well above the national average of $1,741. On top of that, the cost of living in San Jose is 82% higher than the U.S. average and 30%… The post These are the best affordable neighborhoods to rent in San Jose, CA appeared first on RentCafe rental blog . February 23, 2026 at 04:54PM