The benefits of dog ownership are undeniable, and if you're reading this, then we are preaching to the choir on today's subject of 'renting with dogs'.
Finding a room for rent in the US (or anywhere in today's economic climate) is difficult and pricey at best. For dog owners...especially those with multiple dogs, large breeds, or both...it's often near impossible.
Between extortionate pet bonds and breed restrictions, it can make sharing life with their pets a difficult task for renters with dogs.
But Americans, like in most countries nowadays, are dog-devoted. In 2022, Americans spent around $136.8 billion on pets, an almost 10% jump from the figures in 2021.
The statistics show the level of dedication Americans have towards pet care...and with dog ownership increasing at the highest rate yet post-COVID, providers of housing are having to get up to speed with the dog-related demands of the modern dog owner.
We set out on a mission to find not only the best US cities for low-drama rentals but those that also cater to dogs with their pet-friendly culture, amenities, and services.
Join us on a mission to discover the friendliest cities for pets in the US today that also don't suck for humans! The following 6 looks particularly appealing to us!
Most Pet-Friendly Cities in the US
St. Louis, MO
This city has a rich culture and several well-maintained green areas, making it a great city for those who want to live in town without sacrificing places for walks and toilet stops.
Over 65% of rentals in St Louis are pet-friendly (zillow.com) so maybe the "Gateway to the West" is the next home for you and your pack. If so, find a room for rent here.
The city has a lot of pet-friendly parks where your pets can enjoy some quality time with you and relax in the lovely Midwest fresh air. You'll also find various pet-friendly entertainment hubs, including Six Flags and Laumeier Sculpture Park.
Do your research as always since St Louis still has its fair share of properties only accepting two dogs or fewer.
Madison, WI
Popular for being another pet-friendly city in the country, Madison, WI has a lot of pet-friendly spaces that might just make you fall in love with this beer and cheese haven!
Madison is a city with some of the best percentages of pet-friendly rental properties (80+% according to our Zillow searches!)
As for any city looking to grow its population, even the lease agreement terms here are known to be pet-friendly! If Madison, Wisconsin is a possibility for you and your furry companies, don't wait too long as the world won't sleep forever on this affordable jewel of a town
You can explore several pet-friendly outdoor activities, and you will never have a boring day in this city. You can head to Sun Prairie and Yahara Heights pet exercise area for this.
Also, if you groom your pet often, it seems like there are grooming service centers around every corner here! (weird flex, Madison!)
Chicago, IL
Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, this city is yet another epitome of a pet-friendly city.
Locals here love dogs, as you'll see by the water bowls that litter the streets outside the bars and restaurants, ensuring your dog enjoys Chicago's culturally rich neighborhoods as much as you.
FYI, you'll both need that water...while we know Chicago as the snowy backdrop of the Home Alone movies, it actually gets pretty warm and sticky there in the summer.
Also, various restaurants welcome guests and their pets with special outdoor seating areas, fostering a dog-positive social atmosphere. Ludlow Liquors or the Moonlighter are great places to get a feel for this.
The city has around 20 off-leash parks, so your pets can roam and run freely without any restrictions, but the real gems are the dog-friendly beaches!!
If you are a pet parent to a dog, remember this city is popular for its Montrose Dog Beach, where you and your pooch can head for a relaxed time.
Richmond, VA
Claiming to be one of the most pet-friendly cities in the country, this Southern jewel offers plenty of dog-friendly amenities. Also, the average monthly pet rent in this city is pretty competitive at $950/month for an average 1-bed apartment. The rest of the country ought to be heading there pretty soon at those numbers!
The general cost of goods in this region of the US is also much lower than in other parts of the USA. So if you're concerned about pet ownership costs, the pet-friendly services in Virginia are as affordable as it gets so there's no need to compromise on taking care of your pets.
The city boasts a maximum number of pet-friendly rental properties and ample parks where your pets can enjoy exercise and outdoor activities, making Richmond a healthy home for you and your dogs.
To explore the outdoors with your pet, visit the Canoe Run Park or Brown’s Island. The air quality of this city is one of the many perks of living here.
Columbus, OH
Colombus is a highly affordable city with great nightlife....sure it's in the Rust Belt, but it knows it is and is seeing a lot of investment in downtown amenities and infrastructure.
With pet-friendly rental properties making up over 89% of properties for rent, Columbus is no drama on rentals. Columbus has an astounding 25 green areas within the city limit, all dog-friendly.
The city also holds several pet-friendly events and festivals to create a vibrant, pet-friendly community all year round.
Columbus is full of friendly Midwesterners (it's a true stereotype) so while your pets socialize, you are sure to make friends of your own as you vibe with the other pet parents.
Also, most shopping markets here are pet-friendly and welcome pets to the store for a pet-friendly urban experience. So you can try shopping with your pets at pet-friendly shopping centers, including The Home Depot, Lowe’s Home Improvement, etc.
Columbus also ranks high on pet health as professional veterinary services seem to outnumber the animals. Jokes aside, getting a quick appointment at the local vet is a high...high priority for us dog parents!
Omaha, NE
If you are a dog-owner and renter looking to make a move, perhaps you're looking to rent with s either have a dog, or are about to get a dog, so finding a roommate who is pet-friendly is no big deal here. Most citizens here are pet-friendly and value all their furry companions.
With various pet-friendly hiking trails and a good walkability score, this city encourages pet owners to spend more time outdoors with their pets. In short, Omaha is extremely 'outdoorsy' with beauty everywhere...you'll be as excited as your dog to get outside!
Omaha is also crammed with dog-friendly cafes and breweries. So, if you're a fan of happy hours with dog kisses, let your pet tag along and head straight to Barchen Beer Garden or Blatt Beer & Table.
Or if nature is your drug of choice, breathe a few lung fulls of fresh air with your pet at the various off-leash parks, including the famous Walnut Creek Park.
Conclusion
Thus, finding a pet-friendly city in America shouldn’t be a task for you now. By reviewing the cities mentioned, you can easily choose an apt, pet-friendly city for you and your pet.
Ensure the city has ample green spaces and veterinary care services and welcomes pets with love and care. Also, if you find a roommate who is pet-friendly and is interested in moving to a new city, the same as you, you both can start searching for pet-friendly places today.
So, wait no more. Explore the various pet-friendly cities and enjoy an amazing living arrangement with your pet.
