Charlotte has been recognized as the most pet-friendly rental market in the U.S., boasting a remarkable 91.6% pet-approval rate, just ahead of Austin, Texas, at 91.5%. Following them are Denver, Dallas, and Nashville, showcasing a trend among Sun Belt and Mountain West cities that provide newer rental complexes with built-in pet policies.
Nationally, the majority of rental listings (77%) now accommodate pets, a significant increase from just over half of listings three years ago. This shift aligns with the growing demand for pet-friendly homes, as nearly 60% of renter households own pets—more than those with children or houseplants. Moreover, 65% of renters consider pet-friendliness essential when searching for an apartment.
However, not all cities are keeping pace. For example, New York City only allows pets in 61% of its listings, making it one of the least accommodating markets. Listings that permit pets not only rent faster but also attract more attention compared to those that do not, indicating that landlords in less pet-friendly areas may be missing out on potential earnings.
In contrast, cities like Salt Lake City have seen significant increases in pet-friendly listings, indicating a broader trend towards accommodating pet owners across the country.
