National study of renter’s satisfaction with their cities and states
Apartment List has released Newark’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.
"Newark renters expressed general dissatisfaction with the city overall," according to Apartment List. "They gave most categories below average scores."
Key Findings in Newark include the following:
Renters say:
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.
Cultural diversity energizes West Side, where Newark's western neighborhood houses one of New Jersey's most international communities. Most rentals offer more affordable alternatives to downtown options while maintaining reasonable commuting possibilities via multiple bus routes creating car-optional living unusual for typically automobile-dependent New Jersey communities outside transit-oriented development zones. Though some commercial corridors show varied investment levels, strategic positioning between downtown Newark employment and western suburbs creates ideal convenience for households seeking both urban accessibility and housing affordability increasingly difficult to achieve simultaneously in New Jersey's competitive market experiencing rapid appreciation in previously affordable districts now commanding premium pricing despite minimal improvements beyond location-based considerations rather than genuine quality enhancements justifying increased costs beyond inflation-adjusted calculations.
Academic proximity defines Upper Clinton Hill, where Newark's central neighborhood offers affordable options near multiple universities. The district sits walking distance to both Rutgers-Newark and New Jersey Institute of Technology while maintaining separate identity from purely campus environments. Though some blocks show varied investment levels, excellent public transportation including multiple bus routes creates car-optional possibilities unusual for neighborhoods at similar price points, while the developing commercial corridors continue adding amenities serving local residents beyond student populations.
Historic diversity defines Weequahic, where Newark's southern neighborhood showcases distinctive architecture surrounding the park designed by Olmsted Brothers of Central Park fame. Most rentals feature unique details from hardwood floors to built-in bookcases reflecting craftsmanship from earlier eras, while the compact neighborhood design enables community connections unusual for typically fragmented urban districts. Though some blocks show varied investment levels, strategic positioning near both highways and Newark Airport creates ideal convenience for commuters seeking affordable housing with character beyond newer cookie-cutter developments increasingly dominating urban expansion areas with limited architectural distinction despite premium pricing based purely on construction date rather than genuine quality considerations. The neighborhood's proximity to Weequahic Park provides recreational opportunities unusual for urban environments, creating natural beauty beyond built environments increasingly important for quality-of-life calculations.