What do Australian renters actually want in 2026?
It is not just about finding the cheapest rental. Renters are increasingly considering affordability, location, transport, security, parking, pets and lifestyle when choosing where to live.
Affordability Still Matters
Rent remains one of the biggest factors when choosing a home. Rental affordability in Australia reached its lowest level since at least 2008 in early 2026, according to the realestate.com.au Rental Affordability Report.
With budgets under pressure, renters are paying closer attention to what they get for their money. The cheapest property is not always the best value.
Location and Transport Are a Big Deal
The 2026 Australian Renter Survey from CBRE and REA Group found that rent and location are the two main drivers of rental choice.
Proximity to work or education and access to public transport also matter. For some renters, a smaller home in a convenient location may be more appealing than a larger property with a long commute.
Security, Parking and Pet Friendly Homes
Security and parking remain important building level priorities, while pet-friendly accommodation is increasingly important for renters with pets.
REA search data also shows strong interest in pet-friendly homes, furnished properties and undercover parking.
Lifestyle Is Becoming More Important
Renters are also considering what is available around their home.
Domain's 2026 research points to growing demand for lifestyle focused suburbs and apartment developments with amenities such as pools, gyms, pet-friendly options, access to nature and good transport connections.
Renters Are Thinking Long Term
The 2026 Australian Renter Survey found that 24% of renters surveyed plan to stay in their current rental for five years or more. It also found that more than half would remain in their current rental if the rent increased by $50 per week.
This highlights the growing importance of stability. For some renters, finding a home they can comfortably stay in may be more valuable than constantly moving to find a slightly cheaper option.
Expert Tip!
When searching for a rental, look beyond the weekly rent. Compare the location, transport options, parking, pet policies, security, nearby amenities, and how well the property fits your lifestyle. The right rental is often about getting the best overall value, not simply finding the lowest price.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, migration, financial, or professional rental advice. Rental laws, tenancy requirements, and market conditions may vary between Australian states and territories and can change over time. Find My Home is not a real estate agency and cannot guarantee rental approvals or outcomes. For enquiries, please contact info@findmyhomeaus.com.
