In an Aug 12, 2026 update, Apartments.com/CoStar revised US multifamily rent growth upward—from 0.8% in Q2 to 1.4% in Q3 and 1.9% in Q4 2026—citing stronger employment and the absorption of excess 2024–2025 supply. National vacancy is projected at 8.2% by end-2026, easing to 8.1% in 2027.
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CoStar raises 2026 US apartment rent-growth forecast; vacancy seen at 8.2%
Why this matters for founders
Founders budgeting for relocating hires or live-work space should expect apartment costs to tick up in H2 2026 rather than keep falling, and lock rates sooner.
Source: CoStar Group
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