Top 10 Features Renters Want in a Modern Apartment
The rental market has evolved dramatically in recent years, with today's renters bringing sophisticated expectations to their apartment search. Whether you're hunting for apartments in Salt Lake City or exploring options in any major metropolitan area, understanding what features matter most can help you make an informed decision and secure the best possible living experience.
This comprehensive guide explores the top 10 features that modern renters consistently prioritize when evaluating apartment options. Properties like Crossing at 9th have set the standard by incorporating these sought-after features into their design and amenities package.
1. High-Speed Internet and Smart Home Connectivity
In our increasingly digital world, reliable, high-speed internet isn't just a convenience—it's a necessity. Modern renters, especially those working remotely or running side businesses, require robust internet infrastructure that can support multiple devices, video conferencing, streaming services, and cloud-based applications simultaneously.
What Renters Expect
Today's apartment seekers look for buildings that offer:
- Building-wide WiFi coverage including common areas
- Smart home integration capabilities
- Built-in networking infrastructure that eliminates the need for complex personal installations
The Remote Work Factor
The shift toward remote and hybrid work arrangements has fundamentally changed how people evaluate living spaces. Renters now consider their apartment as both home and office, making reliable connectivity absolutely critical. Properties that can't support professional-grade internet speeds find themselves at a significant disadvantage in attracting quality tenants.
2. In-Unit Laundry Facilities
Few amenities rank as highly in renter satisfaction surveys as in-unit laundry facilities. The convenience of being able to wash and dry clothes within your own apartment eliminates the time-consuming trips to laundromats or shared facilities, while also providing greater control over hygiene and security for valuable clothing items.
Time and Convenience Benefits
Modern renters value their time highly and appreciate amenities that streamline daily tasks. In-unit laundry allows residents to multitask effectively, working from home while managing household chores, or relaxing in their own space rather than supervising laundry in a shared facility.
Cost Considerations
While apartments with in-unit laundry often command slightly higher rents, many renters find the investment worthwhile when considering:
- Elimination of per-load costs at laundromats
- Reduced transportation expenses
- Time savings that can be monetized through additional work or personal activities
- Enhanced security for expensive clothing and personal items
Health and Hygiene Advantages
Particularly following the global pandemic, many renters prioritize the hygiene benefits of private laundry facilities. Having control over the cleanliness of machines and avoiding shared spaces provides peace of mind and supports personal health protocols.
3. Modern Kitchen Amenities
The kitchen serves as the heart of modern apartment living, and renters consistently prioritize updated, functional kitchen spaces. A well-designed kitchen can influence everything from daily meal preparation to entertainment capabilities and overall lifestyle satisfaction.
Essential Kitchen Features
Modern renters typically seek kitchens that include:
- Stainless steel appliances with energy-efficient ratings
- Granite or quartz countertops for durability and aesthetics
- Ample cabinet and storage space
- Kitchen islands or breakfast bars for casual dining
- Pantry space for bulk food storage
- Adequate electrical outlets for small appliances
- Modern fixtures and lighting
The Cooking Renaissance
Younger renters, in particular, have embraced home cooking as both an economic necessity and a creative outlet. The rise of food delivery services and meal kit subscriptions has paradoxically increased appreciation for well-equipped kitchens, as renters want the flexibility to choose between cooking at home and ordering in.
Entertainment Value
Open-concept kitchens that flow into living areas support the modern trend toward casual entertaining. Renters appreciate kitchen designs that allow them to interact with guests while preparing meals, making the space functional for both daily use and social occasions.
4. Fitness Centers and Wellness Amenities
Health and wellness have become central priorities for modern renters, making on-site fitness facilities increasingly important in apartment selection decisions. Quality fitness amenities can eliminate the need for expensive gym memberships while providing convenient access to exercise equipment and wellness resources.
Comprehensive Fitness Offerings
The most desirable apartment fitness centers feature:
- Cardio equipment including treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes
- Strength training equipment with free weights and resistance machines
- Yoga and stretching areas with space for mats
- Functional training spaces for bodyweight exercises
- Outdoor fitness areas for fresh-air workouts
Economic and Lifestyle Benefits
Access to quality on-site fitness facilities provides significant value for renters by:
- Eliminating monthly gym membership costs ($30-100+ per month)
- Reducing transportation time and expenses to external fitness facilities
- Providing 24/7 access for flexible workout scheduling
- Creating opportunities for social connections with neighbors who share similar wellness interests
Properties like Crossing at 9th understand this priority and have invested in comprehensive fitness amenities that rival standalone gyms in both quality and variety.
5. Outdoor Living Spaces
Access to outdoor spaces has become increasingly important to modern renters, particularly those living in urban environments. Quality outdoor amenities provide opportunities for relaxation, social interaction, and connection with nature without requiring travel to parks or recreational areas.
Private Outdoor Access
Individual outdoor spaces remain highly desirable:
- Private balconies or patios for personal use
- Ground-floor units with direct yard access
- French doors or large sliding doors that blur indoor/outdoor boundaries
- Outdoor storage for bikes, sports equipment, or seasonal items
Community Outdoor Amenities
Shared outdoor spaces that foster community interaction include:
- Rooftop lounges with seating areas and views
- Outdoor grilling stations and dining areas
- Fire pits or outdoor fireplaces for year-round use
- Dog parks and pet exercise areas
Seasonal Considerations
In cities like Salt Lake City, outdoor amenities become particularly valuable given the area's emphasis on outdoor recreation and the stunning natural surroundings. Renters appreciate properties that help them take advantage of favorable weather while providing comfortable outdoor spaces during all seasons.
6. Ample Storage Solutions
Storage consistently ranks among the top concerns for apartment renters, who often struggle to fit their belongings into compact urban living spaces. Modern apartments that provide creative storage solutions help renters maintain organized, comfortable homes without sacrificing style or functionality.
In-Unit Storage Features
Desirable storage amenities within individual apartments include:
- Spacious closets with built-in organization systems
- Linen closets and bathroom storage
- Kitchen pantries and cabinet space
- Coat closets near entryways
Organizational Benefits
Adequate storage helps renters maintain:
- Clutter-free living spaces that feel larger and more comfortable
- Organization systems that support productivity and reduce stress
- Proper care for valuable items like sports equipment, seasonal clothing, and important documents
7. Security and Safety Features
Modern renters prioritize safety and security features that provide peace of mind and protect their personal property. Comprehensive security systems have become standard expectations rather than luxury amenities in quality apartment communities.
Access Control Systems
Modern security features include:
- Keyless entry systems using codes, cards, or smartphone apps
- Secure package delivery systems
- Controlled access to common areas and amenities
- Well-lit parking areas and walkways
Surveillance and Monitoring
Professional security amenities often feature:
- Security cameras in common areas and building perimeters
- 24/7 monitoring services
- On-site personnel for community outreach
- Integration with local emergency services
Quality properties understand that security isn't just about preventing crime—it's about creating an environment where residents feel comfortable and confident in their daily lives.
8. Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Pet ownership has grown significantly among renters, making pet-friendly policies and amenities increasingly important in apartment selection decisions. Properties that welcome pets and provide thoughtful amenities for pet owners often enjoy higher occupancy rates and tenant satisfaction.
Pet Policy Considerations
Modern pet-friendly apartments typically offer:
- Reasonable pet fees and deposits rather than blanket restrictions
- Multiple pet allowances for households with more than one animal
- Flexible policies that accommodate various pet types including cats, dogs, and small animals
Pet-Specific Amenities
Dedicated pet amenities that add value include:
- On-site dog parks or exercise areas
- Pet washing stations with professional-grade equipment
- Waste disposal stations throughout the property
- Pet-friendly landscaping and walking paths
- Nearby veterinary services and pet supply stores
Community Benefits
Pet-friendly properties often develop stronger community bonds as pet owners naturally interact during walks and visits to pet amenities. This social aspect contributes to higher resident satisfaction and longer lease terms.
9. Flexible Living Spaces
Modern lifestyles require adaptable living spaces that can serve multiple functions throughout the day. Renters increasingly prioritize apartments with flexible layouts that can accommodate work, exercise, entertainment, and relaxation within the same footprint.
Open-Concept Designs
Contemporary apartment layouts often feature:
- Combined living and dining areas that can be reconfigured for different uses
- Kitchen islands that serve as workspace, dining area, or social gathering point
- Minimal walls that allow for flexible furniture arrangements
- Multi-purpose rooms that can serve as home office, guest room, or hobby space
Work-From-Home Adaptability
Remote work has created new demands for residential spaces:
- Dedicated office nooks or alcoves for focused work
- Adequate electrical outlets and lighting for computer equipment
- Quiet zones that can be separated from household activities
- Video conferencing backgrounds that appear professional
Lifestyle Flexibility
Modern renters appreciate spaces that can adapt to:
- Entertaining guests for dinner parties or casual gatherings
- Exercise routines including yoga, dance, or bodyweight training
- Hobbies like art, music, or crafting
- Seasonal needs such as holiday decorating or summer entertaining
10. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Environmental consciousness and cost savings drive modern renters' interest in energy-efficient and sustainable apartment features. Properties that demonstrate commitment to sustainability often attract environmentally aware tenants while providing concrete financial benefits through reduced utility costs.
Energy-Efficient Appliances and Systems
Modern sustainable apartments typically include:
- ENERGY STAR certified appliances that reduce electricity consumption
- LED lighting throughout units and common areas
- Programmable thermostats for optimal heating and cooling efficiency
- Energy-efficient windows and insulation that reduce thermal transfer
Financial Benefits
Energy-efficient features provide direct financial benefits to renters through:
- Reduced monthly utility bills
- Stable energy costs that are less subject to utility rate fluctuations
- Lower overall cost of living in sustainable properties
The best apartments in Salt Lake City often incorporate comprehensive sustainability features that appeal to environmentally conscious renters while providing measurable cost savings.
Conclusion: The Future of Modern Apartment Living
The ten features outlined in this guide represent the current gold standard for modern apartment living, but renter expectations continue to evolve. Properties that stay ahead of trends and consistently invest in upgrades and improvements will continue to attract and retain the most desirable tenants.
For renters evaluating options in Salt Lake City's competitive market, properties like Crossing at 9th demonstrate how thoughtful property management and comprehensive amenities can create exceptional living experiences. By prioritizing the features that matter most to modern lifestyles, these properties set themselves apart from basic housing options and provide genuine value for discerning renters.
Whether you're a young professional starting your career, a growing family needing flexible space, or anyone seeking the benefits of modern apartment living, understanding these ten essential features will help you make an informed decision that supports your lifestyle goals and provides lasting satisfaction.