Rents Vary Regionally

National asking rents posted their first increase in over seven months in February, according to the latest Yardi Matrix National Multifamily Report.

The average U.S. asking rent rose $1 to $1,713 in February, up 0.6 percent year-over-year (YoY), while occupancy decreased 60 basis points YoY to 94.5 percent as of January.

Markets in the Northeast and Midwest continued to register rent increases, in contrast to rent contractions in high-supply Sun Belt markets. Of Yardi Matrix’s top 30 metros, 13 posted rent declines, and five were down by three percent or more YoY. Occupancy was positive only in San Francisco, up 0.1 percent.

While rents generally show signs of stability, factors including supply, demand, regional metrics and affordability will determine the market’s 2024 performance. Occupancy is likely to continue to decline, with one million new rental units expected to come online through the end of 2025. Already, heavy deliveries in Sun Belt and Southwest metros have eroded rent growth, with more construction underway.

“While high-demand markets are likely to record weak rent growth over the next year or two, the seeds of a rebound have been planted, as starts are declining and deliveries will drop in 2026 and 2027,” states the report.

Single-family rents declined $2 in February to $2,133, equating to a 1.2 percent year-over-year increase. Single family occupancy remained flat at 96.5 percent in January. High mortgage rates and the scarcity of for-sale assets continue to boost demand.

Gain more insight in the new Yardi Matrix National Multifamily Report.

Yardi Matrix offers the industry’s most comprehensive market intelligence tool for investment professionals, equity investors, lenders and property managers who underwrite and manage investments in commercial real estate. Yardi Matrix covers multifamily, student housing, vacant land, industrial, office, retail and self storage property types. Email [email protected], call 480-663-1149 or visit yardimatrix.com to learn more.

SHARE POST

Facebook LinkedIN

Recent articles

Connected real estate investment management platform

What to look for in a real estate investment management platform 

Your guide to the four criteria that matter when choosing a real estate investment management platform. See why a connected architecture changes what each capability is worth.

Stylized AI brains glowing in blue and purple light with the text "Beyond Automation: Agentic AI for Enterprise Efficiency"

From automation to agentic AI in multifamily

Agentic AI goes beyond task automation. Learn how multifamily operators are using intelligent workflows to improve resident experiences and reduce operational friction.

The heart of innovation: Senior living leaders on Yardi

How 5 leaders improved senior living operations

Senior living operations leaders share how connected systems give time back to care teams, strengthen family connection and support growth. Download the ebook.

07 / 31 / 26