Would you rather spend a night on the town, or a night on the backyard patio? Walk to brunch on the weekends, or wake up to fields of green and chirping birds? Be close to the action, or have some space to breathe?
There are no wrong answers! Still, between suburban vs. urban living, it’s a tough call. We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons so you can find an apartment in the part of town that works best for you and your lifestyle.
Should You Rent a Downtown Apartment?
City living certainly has its perks, but be sure to weigh the good and the not-so-good before you sign a lease on that urban loft.
Pros of Renting a Downtown Apartment
- Close to the Action: When you rent a downtown apartment, you’re close to what you need: restaurants, stores, nightlife, and events. Depending on your specific location, you may not even need a car—you could live close enough to walk or bike everywhere.
- Easy Commuting: Work downtown, too? Your commute will be almost nonexistent, and you’ll be able to drive to other parts of town quickly.
- The “Cool” Factor: City centers tend to be full of creative souls and entrepreneurs, which can give your neighborhood a “cool factor.”
Cons of Renting a Downtown Apartment
- Noisy Neighbors: City life isn’t for everyone. Most downtown apartment buildings are close together, and many are located right next to busy streets, highways, or railroads. Do you really want to hear everything that’s going on outside?
- Higher Rent for Less Space: Since space is at a premium in densely populated metropolitan areas, you’ll likely pay more for rent than you would in the suburbs, and for less space—which is a bummer if you want to live with a pet or entertain friends in your apartment.
Renting an Apartment in the Suburbs
Not into the idea of city life? Renting a suburban apartment might be your best bet.
Pros of Renting a Suburban Apartment
- Easy on the Budget: Your budget may get you a small apartment in the city, but how much apartment can you afford in the suburbs? As it turns out, much more! In the suburbs, you’ll usually get more square footage for less money.
- Great Amenities: Apartment communities in the suburbs tend to have more amenities (think pools, a gym, or a dog park!) because the suburbs are less densely packed than the city centers and real estate doesn’t cost as much.
- A Calming Escape: If you need the opportunity to recharge and retreat from the world every so often, a suburban apartment can offer just that: a calming escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Living in a suburb provides a small-town feel and a slower pace, but still allows you access to the city when you want to change up your routine.
Cons of Renting a Suburban Apartment
- Distance from the Action: Unfortunately, living in the suburbs can mean a longer commute to work, and make it difficult to get around the city quickly to visit with friends or run errands.
- Slower Pace: The suburbs likely won’t have as many entertainment or nightlife options, and you may not find as many locally owned, Instagram-worthy spots like coffee shops or boutiques.
Rent Where It’s Right for You
Whether you’re looking for a chic downtown loft or a laidback suburban apartment, find your perfect apartment with ApartmentSearch. We’ll help you discover the best city spot that’s close to the action, or a quiet location in the suburbs to call your own. Wherever you sign a lease, mention ApartmentSearch and we’ll hook you up with a $200 reward!
