Looking for your next apartment? If you’ve ever used RentCafe, you probably appreciated how easy it is to browse listings, see floor plans, and even apply online.
But what if RentCafe doesn’t have what you’re looking for, or you just want to expand your search? Good news—you’re not limited to one platform.
There are several other websites out there that are just as helpful—some even better, depending on your needs.
Whether you’re a college student looking for a budget-friendly unit or a digital nomad seeking luxury apartments, this list has something for everyone.
Here are the top 10 RentCafe alternatives apartment hunters should know about.
1. Zillow Rentals
Zillow is a household name in real estate—and for good reason. Their rental section is packed with listings from across the country, including houses, condos, and apartments.
Why it’s great:
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Huge inventory
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Interactive map search
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Verified listings
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Rent affordability calculator
Pro tip: Set up alerts for your preferred neighborhoods so you never miss a new listing.
2. Apartments.com
Apartments.com has a sleek, easy-to-navigate interface and is backed by the CoStar Group, giving it access to a large and reliable database of listings.
Why it stands out:
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3D tours and HD videos
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Detailed filters (pet policy, amenities, lease length)
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Reviews from current and past tenants
It’s like window-shopping for apartments—without leaving your couch.
3. Zumper
If you’re someone who needs to move quickly, Zumper might be your best friend. It lets you browse listings and submit rental applications—all in one place.
Key features:
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Instant Apply tool
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Credit check and background screening included
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Real-time alerts on new listings
Perfect for young professionals and first-time renters.
4. Trulia Rentals
Trulia, a sister site to Zillow, focuses heavily on lifestyle insights. It’s not just about the apartment—it’s about the neighborhood, too.
Why users love it:
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Crime maps and school ratings
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Walkability and transit scores
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Community Q&A and reviews
Great for families or anyone who’s serious about finding the right neighborhood fit.
5. HotPads
HotPads shines when it comes to urban rentals—think big cities like NYC, Chicago, and San Francisco.
Why it’s different:
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Heat maps showing price trends
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Robust neighborhood data
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Excellent for roommate searches
If you’re city-living and budget-conscious, this one’s for you.
6. Rent.com
Straightforward and to the point. Rent.com is a reliable choice for anyone who wants a hassle-free rental search experience.
What makes it great:
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Moving resources and budgeting tools
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Verified listings
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Cash rewards on select rentals
You can literally get paid to rent in some cases.
7. Craigslist Apartments
Yes, it’s old-school. But Craigslist still delivers, especially for local landlords who don’t list on bigger platforms.
Things to keep in mind:
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Unique and off-market listings
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More room for negotiation
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Be cautious of scams—always meet in person
Perfect for finding that quirky studio with vintage charm.
8. Facebook Marketplace & Groups
Believe it or not, Facebook is a rising star in the apartment-hunting game. From individual landlords to realtors, many now post directly in groups or the Marketplace.
Why it’s a hidden gem:
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Real-time conversations
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Roommate searches and sublets
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Local insights from real people
It’s like having a friend help you find a place—because sometimes, it literally is.
9. Furnished Finder
If you’re a travel nurse, remote worker, or in between homes, Furnished Finder is a dream come true. It focuses on short-term, fully furnished rentals.
Highlights:
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No booking fees
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Background-checked landlords
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Ideal for 30+ day stays
Think Airbnb, but longer term and more affordable.
10. Apartment List
Apartment List uses a fun and intuitive quiz to match you with rentals based on your preferences. It’s like a matchmaking service for renters.
What users love:
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Personalized recommendations
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Smart match algorithm
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Easy scheduling of tours
It cuts through the noise and shows you what actually fits your lifestyle.
So, while RentCafe is a solid starting point, it’s definitely not the only game in town. Each of these RentCafe alternatives brings something unique to the table—whether it’s better filters, more local listings, or extra lifestyle insights.
Don’t limit your search. Mix and match these platforms to find your perfect place.
Happy apartment hunting.
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