Budget Hygge & Pet-Friendly Design Lead 2025 Rental Trends
As apartment living continues to rise and homeownership remains out of reach for many, renters are taking control of their spaces in creative and cost-effective ways in 2025. According to a new survey from Rently, this year’s top design trends prioritize comfort, affordability, and pet-friendly solutions.
The study reveals that renters are embracing a cozy yet budget-conscious approach, with 79% opting for soft, layered lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Meanwhile, 72% are sticking to minimalism, using clean lines and warm neutrals to cultivate a serene, stylish retreat. Additionally, pet-friendly design is more prominent than ever, with 69% of renters factoring in their furry companions when making decor decisions.
A New Era of Rental Living
Merrick Lackner, CEO of Rently, emphasizes how this shift in renter priorities presents new opportunities for property managers and retailers.
“Renters today aren’t just looking for a place to live; they’re rethinking how a space can work for them. Aesthetics matter, but so do adaptability, functionality, and self-expression. Renters are making more intentional choices, blending style with smart solutions that fit their evolving lifestyles.”
To better understand the trends shaping rental design, Rently collaborated with the third-party survey platform Pollfish to produce the Rently 2025 Apartment Design & Decor Trends Report. The study surveyed 500 U.S. renters aged 18+ who plan to refresh or decorate their living spaces this year.
Key Findings from the Report
1. Budget-Friendly Makeovers Dominate
Renters are being mindful of their spending while still aiming to make their apartments feel like home.
- 38% plan to spend between $101-$500 on decor updates.
- 29% are willing to invest up to $1,000 to create a personalized space.
- With affordability in focus, many renters are turning to DIY projects, secondhand finds, and multi-purpose furniture to stretch their budgets.
2. Cozy, Moody, and Minimalist Aesthetics Reign Supreme
The desire for comfort is evident, with 87% of renters preferring to stay in rather than go out. This shift is reflected in their design choices:
- 79% favor soft, layered lighting to create a calming ambiance.
- 72% embrace minimalism, incorporating clean lines, neutral tones, and uncluttered spaces.
- Cozy elements such as plush textures, warm wood accents, and mood lighting help renters curate a retreat-like environment.
3. Smart Home Tech and Pet-Friendly Features Are Must-Haves
As renters look for added convenience and security, smart home technology is becoming a necessity:
- 71% want built-in security cameras for enhanced safety.
- 50% seek smart lighting options that can be adjusted to match their mood.
- 33% prioritize keyless entry for seamless access to their homes.
Meanwhile, pet-friendly living has become a top priority:
- 69% of renters design their spaces with their pets in mind, incorporating pet-friendly furniture, designated feeding stations, and cozy pet nooks.
- Features such as washable upholstery, scratch-resistant flooring, and hidden litter box storage are increasingly popular.
4. Outdated Decor Trends Are on the Way Out
Renters are moving away from overdone patterns and styles in favor of more sophisticated, curated looks.
- Chevron prints (66%) and paisley patterns (71%) are losing favor.
- The Coastal Grandmother aesthetic (63%) is making way for more eclectic, vintage-inspired interiors.
- Instead, renters are favoring organic materials, layered textures, and nostalgic design elements.
5. Living Rooms and Bedrooms Take Priority
When it comes to decorating, renters are focusing on the spaces they spend the most time in:
- 46% prioritize updating their living rooms, ensuring they are both stylish and functional.
- 44% focus on refreshing their bedrooms, emphasizing comfort and relaxation.
- 11% are investing in their outdoor areas, transforming balconies and patios into cozy, multi-use retreats.
6. Renter-Friendly Upgrades Take Center Stage
With lease restrictions limiting permanent renovations, renters are finding creative ways to personalize their homes:
- 45% plan to rearrange furniture to refresh their spaces.
- 37% will incorporate more plants to add natural elements.
- 32% are taking on DIY projects, such as removable wallpaper, peel-and-stick tiles, and modular storage solutions.
7. Sustainability Matters—But Affordability Comes First
Eco-conscious design continues to grow in popularity, but price remains a key factor:
- 69% of renters express interest in sustainable decor options.
- 49% state that affordability determines whether they opt for eco-friendly choices.
- Many renters are finding sustainable solutions through thrifted furniture, upcycled decor, and energy-efficient appliances.
8. Functionality Drives Design Choices
While cost is a key consideration, renters are looking for practical, well-designed spaces:
- 55% prioritize affordability, ensuring their decor choices align with their budget.
- Only 7% focus solely on aesthetics, highlighting the growing importance of multi-functional design.
9. Social Media Influences Rental Aesthetics
Renters are turning to digital platforms for decor inspiration:
- 30% look to TikTok for trendy design ideas and DIY hacks.
- 31% curate their dream spaces through Pinterest, creating vision boards and gathering inspiration from influencers.
- The rise of online communities has made stylish, rental-friendly design more accessible than ever.
