If you are a pet parent, finding a rental property that allows pets can be a real struggle. Fortunately, there are some rental markets where landlords lay out the welcome mats for pets.
The Top 10 Pet-Friendly Rental Markets
If you are trying to find a rental that welcomes your pet, check out these pet-friendly areas:
San Francisco, CA
Seattle, WA
Denver, CO
Oakland, CA
Portland, OR
Chicago, IL
St. Louis, MO
New York, NY
Dallas, TX
San Diego, CA
What Makes a Neighborhood Pet-Friendly?
The above neighborhoods are ranked as being among the most pet-friendly in the country, but why?
The answer boils down to a few things. First, these cities have incredibly high concentrations of pet-friendly landlords. That means that many buildings in these areas will allow residence for cats, small dogs and even large dog breeds. Additionally, these cities offer the lowest pet fees in the nation, which means that pet parents can expect to pay reasonable rates for pet rent and deposits.
Finally, these areas are pet-friendly because they offer an ample number of pet stores, parks and other pet services like groomers, vets and dog walkers. These factors all combine to make these neighborhoods enjoyable for pet parents and their furry friends.
Cats vs. Dogs: Which is Easier to Rent With?
Contrary to what many pet parents believe, landlords are generally more receptive to cats than they are to dogs. This may be because cats are smaller and, thus, deemed to be less destructive than dogs. Additionally, since cats don’t bark, many landlords assume they will be quieter in large apartment buildings and condominium complexes. Pet parents who own large or small dog breeds aren’t out of luck just yet, though. Many rentals across the country accept dogs into their ranks, although pet parents who have a large dog breed like a Mastiff or Saint Bernard may have a difficult time finding a rental that will accommodate their mammoth pup.
Fees Associated With Pet-Friendly Rentals
Although the top ten cities listed above are generally very pet-friendly, most rentals will still require additional pet fees. These may come in the form of pet rent, pet deposits or additional fees that are tacked on to each month’s rent payment. Fortunately, pet-friendly rental markets generally offer lower fees and pet parents typically only pay one fee, pet rent, for example, at a time in any given rental.
Although renting an apartment with a dog or cat can be challenging, it is far from impossible, especially in these cities. Renters here can look forward to an active pet community and plenty of amenities for their four-legged friend.
Photo ©iStock.com/4FR
