With 2026 right around the corner, what should apartment owners and operators expect to see in the new year? In a new white paper, Apartments.com highlights 11 important trends that will define the industry in 2026. From the supply slowdown to high-tech solutions, here’s what to watch in the year ahead.
1. Expect a dramatic slowdown in supply
After new supply hit a 40-year record last year, new additions have dropped this year by 30 percent. In the year ahead, the supply pipeline will slow further, with fewer deliveries, construction starts, and new multifamily permits. Construction starts have fallen 71 percent from a peak in early 2022 and are expected to remain well below their pre-pandemic average.
This slowdown in supply additions will narrow the supply–demand gap, paving the way for accelerating rent growth in the years ahead — but the increase will be gradual, as the massive wave of new supply will take years to be absorbed.
2. Concession use will remain elevated
Properties at the top price point will continue to rely on concessions to attract new residents, with the rate of concession use projected to stay above 30 percent, according to the latest CoStar data. This will hold true across market types, including both urban and suburban markets.
Which concessions are the most effective in attracting renters? New survey data from Apartments.com reveals that discounted rent for 12 months holds the greatest appeal for renters — even compared to a free month of rent for the same total value.
3. AI-powered leasing will take off
Multifamily marketers and operators have been exploring how to harness the power of artificial intelligence, ever since generative AI exploded into public consciousness two years ago. Between 2024 and 2025, the use of AI-generated marketing has grown by 26 percent, according to the latest Apartments.com survey of multifamily marketers.
In 2026, property management companies will adopt AI-based tools at scale, relying on artificial intelligence to support lead nurturing, answer prospective residents’ questions, screen applicants for fraud, and support virtual touring.
See the full picture
Explore all 11 trends defining 2026, including the latest outlook for rent growth, multifamily marketing strategies, and renter expectations in the new year.
What is Apartmentology?
Your source for multifamily insights, Apartmentology brings you the latest data and analysis from industry experts.
