Albany, NY, and many other affordable mid-sized metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) outpaced the national rent growth average for single-family rental (SFR) properties in the first half of 2025, according to an analysis of Zillow’s Observed Rent Index, which tracks the 100 largest markets in the U.S.

Driven by high construction costs, land constraints, and rental affordability, developers are increasingly prioritizing smaller units in higher-density multifamily properties. Utilizing data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s annual Survey of Construction, the research teams at Chandan Economics and Arbor Realty Trust have analyzed how the characteristics of new multifamily properties continue to evolve.

The single-family rental (SFR) sector continued showing strength in several key areas in the second quarter of 2025, even as residential housing market growth moderated.

The U.S. housing market reflects a patchwork of local needs, preferences, and geographies, creating distinct storylines. Across the country, many significant shifts have occurred over the last five years, an analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data shows. More expensive housing markets tend to support higher percentages of rental households, and in fast-growing metros, rentals have become a highly effective and flexible way to house new residents.

Bolstered by robust build-to-rent (BTR) activity, the single-family rental (SFR) sector continued to display strength even as the residential housing market moderated. Arbor’s Single-Family Rental Investment Trends Report Q2 2025, developed in partnership with Chandan Economics, provides original research and analysis of key performance metrics for investors to take a closer look at a sector on the rise.

Amid ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty, the small multifamily sector remains favorably positioned for stability as the structural need for affordable housing in the U.S. has supported the strength of the sector’s demand profile.