In Dec 2025, enting cheaper than buying in multiple U.S. cities due to high prices and mortgage rates.

According to Redfin Real Estate data, renting was less expensive than purchasing in a number of American cities in December 2025, including Atlanta, Alexandria, Cape Coral, Jacksonville, Orlando, Amarillo, Clarksville, Gainesville, and Austin. The income premium for buying over renting was 46.3% nationwide, indicating that buyers required substantially higher incomes than renters. Even in more affordable areas, homeownership became less affordable than renting in many markets due to rising home prices and higher mortgage rates following the pandemic.