Conroe Outperforms Houston in 2025 Best Cities for Renters Report
In the 2025 Best Cities for Renters Report, the city of Conroe outperformed Houston, securing a spot at 24th place. This ranking was determined by several key factors, including the local economy, quality of life, and cost of living. The report, published by RentCafe—a popular apartment search website—evaluated 150 cities across the country to determine their suitability for renters.
Conroe’s performance marked a significant improvement from last year, when it ranked 31st. Meanwhile, Houston remained at 70th place, showing no change from previous years. McKinney, a suburb of Dallas, claimed the top position in the report. Notably, nine Texas cities made it into the top 50, with Austin placing 4th and Round Rock at 8th. Of the top 50 cities, 41 are located in the South.
RentCafe used data from its sister company Yardi Matrix to compile the rankings. The analysis focused on factors such as housing affordability, the local economy, and overall quality of life. The results highlight how different cities compare in terms of what they offer to renters.
Housing and Cost of Living: Conroe Leads the Way
When it comes to housing and cost of living, Conroe ranked 7th in the nation, while Houston fell further down the list at 53rd. In Conroe, 75% of rental properties are considered high-end, offering larger living spaces. On average, renters in Conroe live in apartments that span 937 square feet. In contrast, Houston renters typically occupy smaller spaces, averaging 865 square feet, with only half of the rentals classified as high-end.
This difference in housing options reflects broader trends in affordability and availability. Conroe’s strong performance in this category suggests that it is becoming an attractive destination for those seeking more spacious and upscale living conditions.
Local Economy: Conroe Outshines Houston
The local economy also played a significant role in the rankings. Conroe secured a position at 69th, while Houston lagged behind at 98th. Conroe’s unemployment rate of 3.3% is among the lowest in the country, ranking sixth out of the 150 cities analyzed. Additionally, the city saw a 1.2% increase in job growth, which contributed to its favorable standing.
Houston’s higher unemployment rate had a negative impact on its overall ranking, highlighting the economic challenges faced by the city. These factors underscore why some areas may be more appealing to renters looking for stability and opportunity.
Quality of Life: Conroe Offers More Advantages
In terms of quality of life, Conroe ranked 70th, while Houston placed 99th. A key factor in this disparity is the availability of top-rated neighborhoods. In Conroe, 34% of apartments are located in highly rated areas, providing residents with access to better schools, safer environments, and more amenities.
However, many residents in Conroe rely heavily on cars for transportation, with over half of them commuting for more than 30 minutes. This highlights the need for improved public transit options. On the other hand, Houston faces additional challenges, including poor air quality and limited access to natural amenities, which negatively affect its overall quality of life score.
Conclusion
The 2025 Best Cities for Renters Report showcases how different cities stack up in terms of affordability, economic strength, and livability. Conroe’s rise in the rankings demonstrates its appeal to renters, particularly those seeking better housing options and a stronger local economy. While Houston continues to face challenges, the report highlights the importance of investing in infrastructure, job growth, and quality of life improvements to remain competitive in the rental market.
