Fort Lauderdale has officially taken the top spot for apartment renters in Florida. According to new data from RentCafe, apartment renting in Fort Lauderdale is now more in demand than anywhere else in the state, including Miami. This blog post breaks down why this shift is happening, what renters can expect in this high-demand market, and how you can make smart rental decisions in South Florida.
RentCafe’s Score Ranks Fort Lauderdale as the Hottest Apartment Rental Market
The REnT score (Renter Engagement Tracker) by RentCafe evaluates how active and interested renters are in various U.S. markets. The score looks at:
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The availability of apartments in each city
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Page views on apartment listings
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How often apartments are saved as favorites by users
With a score above 70, Fort Lauderdale ranked No. 1 in Florida and No. 20 nationally. In comparison, Miami only scored 48, ranking 8th in the state and 134th nationwide.
How Fort Lauderdale Beat Out Miami
Miami may still dominate in luxury real estate, but when it comes to renters actively looking for apartments, Fort Lauderdale is leading. Why? A big part of it comes down to availability, lifestyle, and value. Fort Lauderdale saw a 7% drop in apartment availability, a sign of strong demand. Meanwhile, Miami saw a 70% increase in listings, but only a 3% uptick in apartments added to favorites, suggesting renters aren’t impressed.
Miami ranked No. 4 in the world for the number of ultra-wealthy people with a primary or secondary home in the metropolitan area. It also ranked No. 1 globally as the most popular “second-home city,” according to a luxury real estate report by Altrata. While Miami dominates the global luxury scene, apartment renting in Fort Lauderdale has become the more practical and appealing choice for everyday renters.
What the Rankings Mean for Local Renters
If you're looking at apartment renting in Fort Lauderdale, know that you're not alone. The city is now at the center of renter attention, and competition is heating up. Being aware of demand trends can help renters act fast and make more informed decisions.
Fort Lauderdale vs. Miami: What’s Changing?
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Slowing Interest in Miami Rentals
Miami's oversupply and slowing engagement suggest renters are starting to look elsewhere. The city still attracts luxury buyers and international investors, but for everyday renters, it might be losing appeal.
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Affordability and Accessibility in Fort Lauderdale
While Miami prices remain sky-high, Fort Lauderdale offers more value for money. Renters get better locations, varied housing types, and easier commutes. Traffic and crowding in Miami are pushing renters northward.
And recent data backs this up: Miami ranked No. 4 in the world for the number of ultra-wealthy people with a primary or secondary home in the metropolitan area. It also ranked No. 1 globally as the most popular “second-home city,” according to a luxury real estate report by Altrata. While Miami dominates the global luxury scene, apartment renting in Fort Lauderdale has become the more practical and appealing choice for everyday renters.
Trends Shaping the Fort Lauderdale Rental Market
Decrease in Available Listings
The decrease in available apartments reflects not just higher demand but more long-term residents committing to leases. This shows trust in Fort Lauderdale as a good place to settle.
Community-Based Living vs. Luxury Living
Unlike Miami’s condo-focused scene, Fort Lauderdale’s housing includes:
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Smaller apartment complexes
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Duplexes and townhomes
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Garden-style rentals
This appeals to renters who prioritize lifestyle over luxury.
What Renters Are Prioritizing Today
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Walkability
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Local businesses
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Proximity to work and recreation
Frequently Asked Questions About Apartment Renting in Fort Lauderdale
What is the average rent in Fort Lauderdale?
As of 2025, the average rent in Fort Lauderdale ranges between $2,100 and $2,600 per month, depending on the neighborhood, amenities, and apartment size. Popular areas near downtown and the beach tend to be on the higher end of the spectrum.
Is apartment renting in Fort Lauderdale cheaper than Miami?
Yes. While both cities have seen rising rental prices, apartment renting in Fort Lauderdale generally offers better value. Miami rents are among the highest in the nation, while Fort Lauderdale offers more options at mid-range price points.
What neighborhoods are best for renters in Fort Lauderdale?
Some of the top rental neighborhoods include:
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Las Olas (downtown living, nightlife, shopping)
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Victoria Park (charming, walkable, residential)
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Flagler Village (trendy, art-focused, urban)
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Harbor Beach (luxury rentals near the ocean)
Are utilities typically included in Fort Lauderdale rentals?
It depends on the property. Some apartments include water and trash services, while electricity, internet, and gas are usually the renter’s responsibility. Always confirm utility policies before signing a lease.
Fort Lauderdale Is Florida’s Go-To City for Renters
Apartment renting in Fort Lauderdale is on fire—and it’s not slowing down. Ranked No. 1 in Florida, this coastal city is attracting renters with its walkable neighborhoods, strong community vibes, and variety of housing options. Whether you’re relocating from Miami or moving within South Florida, Fort Lauderdale should be at the top of your list.
Stay ahead of the curve and contact The Mastropieri Group, Realtors® at (561) 544-7000 for expert help in navigating this fast-moving market.