58% of Renters Would Sacrifice Pools and Gyms for Smart Tech, Rently Survey Finds

New Rently survey shows tech-enabled living has shifted from nice-to-have to non-negotiable as renters prioritize safety, convenience, and control.

Pools are out. Smart locks are in. According to a new national survey from Rently, the leader in self-touring, smart access, and home automation solutions for the rental industry, 58% of renters say they would give up traditional amenities like pools and gyms in exchange for better smart home features—especially if it saves them money. In 2025, “move-in ready” increasingly means smart locks, smart thermostats, and security cameras, not treadmills and tanning decks.

To better understand shifting renter expectations, Rently partnered with third-party platform Pollfish to survey 500 U.S. renters for the 2025 Rently Smart Apartment Trends Report. The results point to a fundamental shift in what renters prioritize, revealing that connected living is fast becoming the new baseline.

Key Survey Findings:

• 58% of renters would prioritize smart home tech over amenities like pools and gyms—particularly if rent savings are offered.
• 65% say smart technology makes a rental more appealing, with 31% actively prioritizing units that include it.
• 54% now expect smart locks, thermostats, and security cameras as standard in a modern rental.
• 41% cite “feeling safer at home” as their #1 reason for wanting smart tech—more than energy savings (18%) or convenience (11%).
• 65% are willing to pay more in monthly rent for smart home features, and 52% would pay over $20 extra.
• 77% would consider signing a longer lease (2+ years) if smart devices were included.

“We’re witnessing a real shift in what renters consider essential,” said Rently CEO Merrick Lackner. “The future of apartment living is intelligent, connected, and renter-focused. Today’s renters are ready to pay for technology that makes life simpler and safer. Communities that lead on smart innovation won’t just attract tenants—they’ll define the next era of the rental experience.”

Visit the 2025 Rently Smart Apartment Trends Report at Rently’s website for the complete survey results.

About Rently

For single-family & multifamily owners/operators who want to maximize tenancy rates, efficiency and profitability, Rently is a proptech solution company that offers best-in-class leasing automation services and smart home solutions so customers can lease faster, secure their communities, streamline operations, and increase NOI — all from one platform. Whether you're seeking to increase security, reduce operating costs, or increase rental revenue, Rently has a tailored solution for you. Learn more at www.rently.com.

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