Open House is our monthly newsletter covering the data, trends, and market forces shaping the single-family rental (SFR) industry.
This July, as the country marks 250 years, it's a natural time to reflect on the meaning of independence and freedom. For generations, those ideals have been partially expressed through the stability and opportunity of having a place to call home — the ability to put down roots, raise families, and build something lasting through an honest day’s work. What's increasingly changing is how people are choosing to do that.
As the nation's premier single-family home rental and management company, Invitation Homes today houses more than 322,000 Americans across 16 major metro markets, offering homes in convenient neighborhoods to residents at every life stage. At the same time, we make a significant impact on the success of our local communities.
Why More Americans Choose to Rent
For a growing number of American households, renting feels more practical than owning – whether that decision is driven by financial considerations, lifestyle flexibility, or the realities of today’s housing market. The gap between the cost of homeownership and renting has widened significantly, and for many, owning no longer makes financial sense once mortgage rates, property taxes, insurance, and ongoing costs are factored in. At the same time, the appeal of professionally managed housing — where maintenance is handled and long-term obligations are reduced — is increasingly compelling. Together, these shifts are reshaping how Americans approach the rent-versus-buy decision and driving sustained demand for high-quality single-family rental homes. In many ways, this also reflects a broader evolution in how Americans define stability and independence today.
Supporting Data
According to Lendingtree data from January 2026, renting is cheaper than owning in every large metro across the United States.
Nationwide , renter households had a median income of $53,700 in 2024, and just 16% earned at least $120,800, the minimum required to afford the median-priced home.
Realtor.com revealed that rental housing stock is expected to increase to over 50.5 million units by early 2027, far above pre-pandemic levels.
A May 2025 Federal Reserve report found that more than a third of renters prefer renting, with 58% citing convenience, 47% citing the financial risk of owning, and 46% citing lower cost.
The Invitation Homes Footprint
Across the country, we provide high-quality rental homes, build new homes for rent that help increase the nation’s housing supply, and contribute in meaningful ways to our local communities.
We’re also helping modernize the simplicity of the rental experience — offering streamlined utilities management, automated Air Filter Delivery, Smart Home technology, and other innovations designed to improve everyday living for our residents.
Our impact extends beyond our homes. We contributed $502.6 million to local tax bases in 2025, funding schools and public services. We provided free positive rent reporting for our 161,265 enrolled residents in 2025, helping them build financial stability. We regularly maintain and upgrade our homes; last year, we worked with 3,356 skilled vendors to help care for our homes and residents and, in doing so, spent $538 million, which in turn helped support property values in the neighborhoods where we operate.
Building the Workforce in Our Communities
Building great homes and neighborhoods requires more than just capital; it requires skilled knowledge of building, maintaining, and managing high-quality homes. Our 1,725 full-time associates work hard every day to deliver the quality and care our residents experience in our homes.
In addition, we are committed to strengthening the skilled trades pipeline. Through Invitation to SkillUp, we partner with local trade schools to develop the next generation of skilled workers. Scholarships and direct investment in vocational training create career pathways that strengthen local economies and support the broader infrastructure skills that communities rely on.
Looking Ahead
Two hundred and fifty years in, the American story remains one of hard work, opportunity, and community.
Today's renters reflect the full scope of that story, spanning every stage of life, income level, and background. Our goal is to meet them where they are by providing quality homes, reliable service, and a meaningful foundation for shaping their own definition of the American experience.
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