Did you know that the South is leading build-to-rent (BTR) development? According to Real Page, more than 64,000 BTR units were under construction as of early June 2025, including nearly 34,000 in the South. Many of those units are expected to complete by the end of 2027. As individuals seek flexible living options in urban areas, BTR developers are picking up the pace and Atlanta BTR is no exception.
BTR Growth in Southeastern Markets
Although the BTR sector has existed for some time, it is beginning to experience an uptick in development due to demand for spacious living and amenities in the suburbs. Renters want larger suburban-style residences with a short commute to work or school. These renters by choice want access to lifestyle choices offered by single family homes and townhomes without the obligation of a mortgage or property taxes.
According to a 2025 CRE Report blog, the metro Atlanta region had the third-highest number of residential BTR units constructed last year, totaling 3,035. Phoenix topped the list with 4,460 units, while Dallas followed in second with 3,197 units. Tied for fourth place, with 1,000 units each, are Charlotte, N.C., Huntsville, Ala., and Jacksonville, Fla. Atlanta ranks among the top 100 metropolitan areas for the most new build-to-rent (BTR) homes in the last five years.
Why BTR?
The BTR sector has doubled in the last six years, but what is the appeal? Renters want space, flexibility and freedom – all of which can be found at rental communities across the Southeast. And despite tight financing and increased costs to build new homes, developers and investors are confident that BTR demand will remain strong, especially in high-growth metros with jobs, space and the appeal of the lock-and-leave lifestyle.
With a target demographic of millennials and retirees, the market is rapidly shifting to larger floor plans with suburban amenities. Forget the tight density of living at an apartment complex, residents are encouraged to spread out and live large with backyards, porches and so much space!
Another factor is cost. As home prices continue to rise nationwide, many individuals are seeking housing options that offer greater financial flexibility. The Mortgage Bankers Association recently reported that homeowners often spend nearly $24,000 annually on expenses beyond their mortgage payments. In many rental communities, maintenance and emergency repair costs are included in monthly rent, helping residents avoid the burden of unexpected homeownership expenses.
Cities like Atlanta also boast immense opportunities for employment, education and recreation, which make them hotspots for rental communities.
BTR Communities in Atlanta
Metro Atlanta area is bursting with BTR communities. These Atlanta developers and homebuilders are moving quickly to offer renters stylish residences in convenient locations.
Jim Chapman Construction Group builds rental cottage communities across the Southeast for investors under its Ranch Cottages For Rent brand. In Georgia, renters can find these BTR residences from Fort Oglethorpe in northwest Georgia to coastal Savannah. Each cottage home includes stylish appointments, flexible floor plans and access to onsite amenities. Professional management, 24-hour emergency maintenance and exterior landscaping are included. The best part? Every Ranch Cottages for Rent community is pet-friendly! Find your perfect fit at Ranch Cottages for Rent.
Another BTR leader in the Atlanta market, Parkland Residential, offers rental townhomes and cottage-style homes in strategic locations. Residents enjoy proximity to major employers and recreation, while embracing the laid-back renting lifestyle. All communities are pet-friendly and feature onsite management, multiple outdoor amenities and a clubhouse. Begin a new chapter at Grove Landing in Warner Robins, Morgan Park in Fayetteville, Park Ridge in Sugar Hill or in Lawrenceville at Sugarloaf Landing, Sugarloaf Crest and Sweetwater Springs.
ResiBuilt is a leader in the Southeastern BTR market with over 1,500 rental properties across Georgia, Florida and the Carolinas. Boasting multiple elevations and modern floor plans, the builder creates build-to-rent communities with the same quality as its for-sale residences in growing markets. Whether you are looking for a townhome or detached residence, find your dream home with ResiBuilt! Invitation Homes recently acquired ResiBuilt, expanding its build-to-rent footprint and signaling a major step forward in institutional BTR strategy across the Southeast.
As build-to-rent development continues to grow, now is the time to select your dream residence near Atlanta. When you choose BTR, forget about mortgage payments and home maintenance costs—your lease includes exterior landscaping, onsite maintenance and upfront fees, so you can focus on living every day to the fullest.
