Figuring out where you want to live – city, suburb, country, etc. – can be a tough decision. Not only do you have to consider your ideal location, but you also have to find a place to rent that works with your budget and needs.

We did some research to find the best places to be a renter, so if you live here- consider yourself lucky. And if you’re looking for a change, this might be a great place to start exploring parts of the country you may have never thought about renting in the past. You may be surprised at the cities found on this list.

1. Indianapolis, IN

Believe it or not, there’s more than just corn in Indianapolis, Indiana.

So, what’s so great about this location? When it comes to amenities and “things to do” costs are low. Also, compared to the national average, the city also has a very low cost of living.

Even better, the sunny weather and high graduation rates.

The rent costs in this city only account for about 17 percent of a family’s median income – this leaves quite a bit of fun money! Not only is this city extremely affordable, it’s the 12th biggest city in the United States.

Other features – a great night life and huge job market! What are you waiting for? If you have always wanted to live in the mid-west, then you have found the perfect location!

2. St. Louis, Missouri

Another great place to be a renter is in St. Louis, Missouri. Are you wondering why? If so, you aren’t alone. However, the more than 300,000 people population shows that this town definitely has something to offer.

The average monthly rent in this city is just $830, which is just 17 percent of the average monthly income. In fact, rent costs in this city have reduced over the past year, dropping by about 1.9 percent, while vacancies are actually above average (4.6 percent). This means finding a place to rent is actually going to be an easy process here.

3. San Antonio, Texas

When you are searching for the perfect location for renting an apartment, you shouldn’t rule out San Antonio. In fact, this city is quickly becoming one of the top spots in the country.

With a beautiful layout and amazing job market, you will find this is a great place to live, work and play. After all, the entertainment options are stellar compared to other locations in the U.S.

The average temperature for San Antonio, TX is 70 degrees – with it rarely dipping below this point – all year long! If you love the sun, then this may be the perfect place for you.

The cost of living is great – at five percent below the state average, and high school graduation is high. This means it’s a great place to raise a family.

After all, everything’s bigger in Texas… so why not rent here.

4. Columbus, Ohio

If you’re a fan of the hit TV show, “That 70’s Show” then you know Cleveland rocks; however, when it comes to a cool atmosphere and great rental costs, Columbus outranks Cleveland – significantly.

When you begin exploring Columbus, you will quickly discover there are several different “parts” of town, such as Short North and the hip University District.

However, that’s not all!

When it comes to cost of living, Columbus’s rate is two percent lower than the remainder of Ohio. Also, there are more than a few things to do and see in this location.

5. Kansas City, Missouri

When it comes to rental options, you will find a plethora of options. In fact, the vacancy rate of this city is five percent higher than the national average.

While rent has increased slightly in this area, it still only makes up about 16 percent of a household’s annual income.

With an A+ rating when it comes to amenities and ranking high in the areas of cost of living, employment and weather, you will find Kansas City is extremely accommodating to renters. You can find a number of low-cost, and free activities, allowing you to spend more on rent if you so desire.

As you can see, when it comes to renting apartments in the U.S. there are more than a few options to consider. Renting is a great option and can give you the opportunity to see and experience new areas of the country that you may not have gotten an opportunity to if you purchased a house.