13 Top Must-Have Amenities for Rental Apartments 

When scouring the market to rent your next apartment, you will need apartment amenities that give your place that extra zhuzh. To uncover which amenities renters desire most, we delved into thousands of rental search queries performed on Diggz within the first quarter of 2024.

But wait…first things first.

What Even are Apartment Amenities?

Apartment amenities are those non-essential, value-adding things that add flair and functionality to your living space.

These are split into two categories: in-unit amenities and community amenities. In-unit amenities are those personal amenities inside your apartment, reserved for your use only. Community amenities are enjoyed by all people living in the same residence complex. 

Regardless, they make YOUR living in that residence complex more comfortable, enjoyable, and easy. 

What to Look For: Apartment Amenities List

We analyzed data from top markets such as LA, NY, Dallas, Houston, and beyond, from January to March of 2024. Based on thousands of rental searches on Diggz, our findings reveal that the most important apartment amenities that renters want are a in-unit washer dryer, air conditioning, pool, and parking. While more uncommon ones are WiFi, a home office, or a bigger closet. 

Now, not all city residences are created equal when it comes to amenities. That’s why our research provides the most precise insights into what renters crave and which amenities are hot commodities in each city.

Knowing what other renters are searching for will help you get a clear view of what you consider a must-have apartment amenity and what you can do without. After all, if you don’t know what to look for, how will you find it?

Some of the most sought-after apartment amenities among our Diggz users are:

1. Washer/Dryer

A built-in washer and dryer tops the charts as one of the most sought-after apartment amenities, with approximately 67% of renters actively seeking it out. And it’s not hard to see why. This amenity offers unparalleled convenience, saving both time and money typically spent on trips to the laundromat. Plus, laundry day becomes a breeze with a built-in washer and dryer, as you can tackle your loads at any hour that suits your schedule.

Found an apartment with a washer/dryer? Don’t get excited just yet. According to Philip Hordijk, CEO of Leven Real Estate, apartments with an in-unit washer and dryer can add extra to your rent, as much as $500 in New York. So make sure that the convenience is worth the extra money. 

2. Air Conditioning

The next apartment amenity to look for when renting is the air conditioning. It’s essential to ensure your apartment has an in-window unit or central AC to keep cool during those sweltering summer months.

This amenity becomes even more crucial when considering apartments in cities like LA or NY, where AC isn’t always a given. However, with the shifting climate and heat waves, it’s becoming quite a must-have. And if your dream apartment doesn’t come with a built-in AC, there are always those trusty window AC units that you can install. They aren’t the prettiest, but they get the job done.

3. Laundry in Building

Regarding laundry amenities, the next best thing after an in-unit setup is onsite laundry facilities. Onsite laundry is available at the apartment complex for all tenants. You can also expect to pay lower rent for a unit with an onsite laundry rather than in-unit laundry, so technically still a win. 

4. WiFi

Renters should also consider whether WiFi service is available at the apartment. It’s worth noting that many standard rentals do not include WiFi as an amenity. Typically, it’s coliving spaces that offer WiFi as part of their amenities package.

5. Dishwasher

Washing dishes by hand is a nightmare for most people and a source for many roommate arguments. Takes up too much time and energy. Fortunately, finding an apartment equipped with a dishwasher is a breeze – it’s already a standard feature in most units. That’s why a whopping 18% of respondents prioritize this amenity when searching for a rental.

6. Parking

Parking may not top the list of apartment amenities, but for folks in Chicago, San Diego, and Austin, it’s non-negotiable. It isn’t just a nice-to-have amenity – it’s almost a necessity. The need for parking largely depends on your location.

In a city like New York, it’s virtually irrelevant (and non-existent). But, “since hybrid work has become more of the norm, we see more demand for apartments that offer parking” says Philip Hordijk. And as you can imagine parking in NYC doesn’t come cheap. Phillip adds “in areas where parking is scarce, an averaged size SUV will run you a $1,000 a month or more a month”.

However, in a bustling hub like Chicago, every renter insists on parking – yes, a full 100%! Even in sunny San Diego, a solid 84% of renters are on the lookout for parking spaces.

7. Outdoor Apartment Amenities

Having outdoor space is a fantastic apartment amenity. It can be a rooftop terrace, backyard, outdoor deck, or balcony. It provides an opportunity to soak up some sun, enjoy fresh air, and extend your living area beyond your apartment walls.

Around 11% of renters prioritize having outdoor space as an apartment amenity. Whether for relaxation, socializing, or enjoying fresh air, outdoor areas significantly impact apartment living.

8. Elevator

If you’re dealing with a health issue or your apartment is perched high up, elevators can quickly shift from a convenience to a necessity. Especially if you’re keen on avoiding multiple trips up and down with heavy grocery bags in tow.

Interesting fact: While only 4% of residents outside NYC prioritize elevators, a whopping 13% of New Yorkers prefer them (did anyone say fifth-floor walk-up?). Fortunately, buildings with three or more floors are legally required to have an elevator but those constructed before 1968 are exempt from this regulation. So, if you’re residing in such a residential complex, locating an elevator should be a breeze.

9. Gym

Having an on-site gym can be a game-changer, saving you both time and membership fees. In cities like Los Angeles, Houston, and Dallas, residents are avidly searching for onsite gyms as a top apartment amenity. Notice a pattern? These are bustling metropolises where driving to the gym can feel like a Herculean task.

That’s why, if you’re residing in a big city, having an on-site gym ensures you can easily squeeze in your daily exercise without the hassle of commuting.

10. Walk-in Closet

A closet that doubles as an organizer and changing space is undoubtedly a fantastic apartment amenity. However, it’s important not to set your expectations too high. Walk-in closets should only be a priority for residents in cities with larger apartment spaces. After all, your typical New York cubicle-style apartment hardly has room for such luxuries.

That being said, our research indicates that residents of different cities have varying preferences for walk-in closets. Understandably, Houstonites lead the pack. Approximately 36% of Houstonians search for a walk-in closet as a must-have apartment amenity when renting.

11. Pool

Pools are another great apartment amenity for residents looking to rent, especially in cities with extended summer seasons like Atlanta and Houston.

In addition, many apartments in Chicago have enclosed pools, which is ideal given the city’s weather variations. All in all, having access to a pool adds a touch of luxury to apartment living whether it’s for cooling off during hot summer days or enjoying a swim year-round.

12. Doorman

Only 3% of renters prioritize having a doorman or concierge service when renting. It’s an apartment amenity that’s appreciated by those whose lifestyle aligns with the added convenience and security it offers. 

13. Home Office / Work Space

If you work from home or run a side hustle that demands a dedicated workspace, having a separate home office in your apartment becomes a top priority.

This could include a designated workspace within your apartment, whether it’s a separate room or a designated area outside your bedroom. Alternatively, some apartment complexes offer coworking spaces as part of their amenities package. These spaces may include amenities like WiFi, plug-in ports, and meeting rooms.

FAQs

1. Are apartment amenities included in the rent?

Apartment amenities may be factored into the rent, contributing to higher overall costs. Even if labeled as “free,” it just means you are not paying for them separately. Landlords may adjust rent based on the amenities offered. Remember, nothing comes without a cost.

2. Can rent be reduced if amenities are not functioning?

Legally, rent reductions due to non-functional amenities aren’t guaranteed. However, it’s worth discussing privately with your landlord to address concerns.

3. What are the most important apartment amenities to consider?

Essential apartment amenities include dishwashers, washer and dryer units, air conditioning, and parking. You will get the most use out of these amenities in daily life. 

4. Who is responsible for maintaining/repairing the apartment amenities, such as dishwasher, in-unit laundry, air conditioner, etc.?

Check Your Lease! Your lease usually outlines what maintenance tasks are the landlord’s responsibility. If it states the landlord is only in charge of basic amenities, like plumbing and heating, you might need to handle dishwasher repairs yourself. But if the lease says the landlord is responsible for all provided amenities, then feel free to give them a call when your appliances need fixing.

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Looking for the perfect apartment or a coliving room with all the amenities you desire? Our apartment rental search includes detailed amenity filters, streamlining your search for the ideal rental. With upfront information about offered amenities, finding your dream living situation has never been easier. Plus, explore our curated selection of coliving spaces, each offering various amenities to suit your lifestyle.

Join Diggz today and simplify your search for the perfect roommate and living space!