In build-to-rent communities across the U.S., single-family homes are redefining rental living. These homes, ranging from just under 1,000- to some over 2,000-square feet, combine space with perks like on-site maintenance, pools, fitness centers, and playgrounds. While spacious rentals are often associated with states like Colorado or Texas, the East Coast is rewriting the rules. Metros in Connecticut, North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina now dominate the list for the most expansive homes in build-to-rent communities according to a recent report from Point2Homes.
Top Metros for Spacious Rentals
Bridgeport, Connecticut leads the pack with single-family rentals averaging more than 2,000-square feet. Other East Coast metros, including Raleigh, North Carolina; Palm Bay, Florida; Washington, D.C.; and Atlanta, Georgia follow closely with averages exceeding 1,700-square feet. In total, 20 metros offer rentals averaging 1,500-to 1,700-square feet, giving renters plenty of space to stretch out.
This trend breaks from expectations, as spacious homes are typically associated with states like Utah, Arizona, or Texas. However, East Coast build-to-rent communities are carving out a niche, offering renters a combination of generous living spaces and high-end amenities.
The Perks of SFRs
Space is only part of the appeal for renters in build-to-rent communities. In addition to avoiding homeownership costs and fluctuating mortgage rates, residents enjoy maintenance-free living and access to community amenities like pools, gyms, and sports courts. This balance of convenience and comfort makes single-family rentals an attractive option for those seeking privacy and extra living space without the financial stress of buying a home.
The average house rental in these communities features 2.5 bedrooms and two bathrooms, spanning 1,355-square feet. While smaller than the 2,480-square-foot average of a for-sale home in 2021, these rentals strike a balance between affordability, zoning constraints, and modern living needs.
Bridgeport Takes the Lead
Data from Yardi Matrix, which analyzed build-to-rent communities with at least 50 single-family units in the 100 largest U.S. metros, highlights significant variations in rental home sizes. Albuquerque, New Mexico, and San Francisco, California offer some of the smallest rentals at just under 1,000-square feet, while Bridgeport, Connecticut stands out with homes exceeding 2,000-square feet.
In Bridgeport, renters enjoy the most space despite homes averaging only two bedrooms and 2.6 bathrooms. This underscores how local zoning laws, land availability, and demand shape rental housing options across the country.
What This Means Today
As rising home prices and mortgage rates push more Americans toward renting, build-to-rent communities are meeting the demand for spacious, amenity-rich living. On the East Coast, metros like Bridgeport, Raleigh, and Palm Bay are proving that renters don’t have to sacrifice space or convenience to find their ideal home.
Click here for more on Point2Home’s report on spacious rental homes.
