The 10 best small US cities where renters get the most for their money in 2026

According to reports from Apartments.com, Peoria, IL, and Cedar Rapids, IA, have tied for the position of the best small U.S. cities for renters in 2026. In these specific locations, renters achieve the highest value for their money, spending only 9.3% of their total income on rent. These cities stand out among the ten best small urban areas in the United States where rental costs are most affordable relative to the income of the residents.