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National study of renter’s satisfaction with their cities and states
Apartment List has released Sunnyvale’s results from the third annual Apartment List Renter Satisfaction Survey. This survey, which drew on responses from over 45,000 renters nationwide, provides insight on what states and cities must do to meet the needs of the country’s 111 million renters.
"Sunnyvale renters expressed general satisfaction with the city overall," according to Apartment List. "With expensive rents in tech hubs, it comes as no surprise that cost of living is a source of dissatisfaction in Sunnyvale."
Key Findings in Sunnyvale include the following:
For more information on the survey methodology and findings or to speak to one of our researchers, please contact our team at rentonomics@apartmentlist.com.
*Based on base prices that don’t include fees
Lakewood offers mid-century character with excellent school access in this established Sunnyvale neighborhood. Rental homes typically feature larger lots with mature trees creating natural shade during hot summer months. While Silicon Valley's premium market means higher rental rates than state averages and some homes may need updating, residents enjoy excellent access to both major tech employers and the developing downtown Sunnyvale corridor with more residential character than newer high-density alternatives.
Tech-friendly convenience defines Ponderosa, where Sunnyvale's central neighborhood offers strategic positioning near major Silicon Valley employers. Most rental communities include amenities supporting remote work requirements increasingly common in technology industries. Though rental rates reflect Silicon Valley's premium market, the combination of reduced commuting time to major tech campuses, quality schools, and positioning between San Francisco and Santa Cruz creates compelling value for tech professionals seeking balanced living environments.
Silicon Valley's relentless housing demand makes Sunnyvale's East Murphy neighborhood particularly valuable for its walkable access to both Murphy Street's restaurants and major tech employers. The neighborhood's older apartment buildings often offer significantly more space than newer complexes with paper-thin walls. Street parking remains relatively manageable – a Silicon Valley miracle – and many buildings include carports or garages. The established tree canopy provides essential shade during summer heat waves, while central heating (sometimes included in rent) handles the occasional winter chill. When seeking weekend activities, downtown Sunnyvale's Saturday farmers market offers local produce and prepared foods reflecting the area's diverse population, while Caltrain provides car-free access to San Francisco without battling peninsula traffic.