Each year, Zillow Rentals releases a report that details what renters want. For 2025, the online real estate marketplace analyzed nearly 5.6 million rental listings to find out which keywords contributed to more saves and shares. The data shows it is all about practicality.
"Renters are spending more money and more time in the rental market than ever before, making them more intentional about the spaces they choose," said Emily McDonald, Zillow’s rental trends expert. "They are prioritizing practical amenities... This balance of convenience and lifestyle enhancement makes renters more willing to invest."
The 3 Keywords That Get 92% More Shares
The most in-demand amenities are (perhaps unsurprisingly) the most sensible. While the data shows five key perks, your title highlights the "big three" that dominate the market.
1. Off-Street Parking: This was the top practical perk. Listings mentioning off-street parking (like garages) were saved 85% more often and, critically, shared 103% more per day than similar units without it.
2. In-Unit Laundry: This is the game-changer highlighted in the headline. Hauling laundry to a communal room is out. Listings that used the keyword "in-unit laundry" were saved 76% more and shared 92% more. If a listing has it, it must be in the title.
3. Pet-Friendly Features: "Pet-friendly" is standard, but renters are now looking for specifics. Listings that mentioned "pet-friendly patches of turf" or dedicated dog areas were saved 76% more and shared 91% more.
What's Out: Pools and Fitness Centers Are Losing Value
Just as important is what renters don't care about anymore. The report found that amenities previously considered essential are no longer so. Listings that heavily featured fitness centers, pools, and generic business centers had fewer saves and shares than those with practical perks.
However, renters did like the specific idea of "co-working spaces" (23% more daily shares), suggesting a shift from "exercise" to "work-from-home" community spaces.
The "Novelty" Perks That Seal the Deal
While practicality rules, some novelties were exciting enough to be deciding factors. Tenant "Happy Hours" (67% more shares) and "Air Filtration" (79% more shares) proved highly desirable.
Then there are the truly unique features. When was the last time you saw an apartment with a "bowling alley"? It turns out this feature, along with "putting greens," are now more desirable than ever.
Conclusion: It's All About Practicality (and Fun)
No matter where you choose to rent, it's clear we're all looking for amenities that make our lives easier. Landlords and property managers take note: if your building has it, flaunt it. Your listing's share count depends on it.