How to Find Furnished Apartments in Today’s Most Desirable Cities

Furnished Apartment at AVE Tampa Riverwalk

As the demand for flexible and convenient housing grows, fully furnished apartments are becoming the go-to solution for business travelers, digital nomads, and individuals in transition. Whether you’re relocating for work, starting a new chapter, or simply searching for a temporary place to stay, finding the right furnished apartment can significantly ease the process. In desirable areas like New York, Dallas, Tampa, and Phoenix, where the pace is fast and housing options are vast, knowing how and where to find furnished apartments can help you get a leg up.

This guide will help you navigate the complexities of looking for a furnished apartment, understand the advantages of short-term rentals, so you can find the perfect housing solution for your needs.

What Are Furnished Apartments vs. Other Housing Options?

Furnished apartments come equipped with all the essential furniture and amenities needed for everyday living. This includes sofas, beds, dining tables, kitchen appliances, and sometimes even household items like linens and dishes. The idea is to provide a turnkey solution — you just have to bring your suitcase and move in without buying or transporting furniture.

These apartments are ideal for those seeking convenience and flexibility, whether you’re a professional on a short-term assignment, a digital nomad constantly on the move, or someone between permanent living arrangements. However, furnished apartments aren’t the only option for temporary housing. Here’s how they compare to other common choices:

• Corporate Housing: These are apartments or condos provided by corporate housing providers designed for business travelers and those relocating for work, with flexible lease terms and locations near business districts.
• Furnished Apartments: Fully furnished apartments are available to the general public and come fully equipped with furniture, kitchenware, and other essentials. These are ideal for stays in between a hotel booking and a one-year apartment lease because you get the space an apartment affords but don’t have to commit for a year or purchase furnishings.
• Airbnb Rentals: Rentals through Airbnb offer a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from shared spaces to entire homes. It’s a flexible, unique, and customizable living experience.
• Hotels: Traditional hotels and extended-stay hotels offer convenience and amenities, with options for both short-term and long-term stays. Extended-stay hotels provide additional space and kitchen facilities.

The Benefits of Renting a Furnished Apartment

Each of the above options come with its own benefits, but furnished apartments offer a comfortable, home-like environment with the flexibility of a short-term stay, making them a perfect middle ground between the convenience of a hotel and the uniqueness of an Airbnb.

Here are some other key advantages to keep in mind when deciding if a furnished apartment is right for you:

1. Move-In Ready Convenience: One of the biggest benefits of renting a furnished apartment is that it’s move-in ready. You can move in and start focusing on what matters, whether that’s work, exploring the city, or settling into your new routine versus unpacking boxes or buying furniture and accessories.
2. Cost Savings: Buying new furniture, setting up utilities, and furnishing a home can add up quickly. By choosing a furnished apartment, you avoid those upfront costs and enjoy a space that’s fully equipped from day one.
3. Flexibility for Short-Term and Long-Term Stays: Furnished apartments cater to a variety of rental needs, from short-term stays to longer-term arrangements. Whether you need a place for a few weeks or several months, the advantages of short-term rentals allow you to choose the duration that fits your situation without the commitment of a year-long lease.
4. Fully Equipped for Comfortable Living: Most furnished apartments include more than just the basics. Many are equipped with modern conveniences like high-speed internet, smart TVs, and kitchenware, providing a comfortable living experience that feels more like home. This is especially beneficial for those who need to maintain productivity, like business travelers and remote workers.

Furnished Apartment at AVE Las Colinas — Dallas

Where to Find Furnished Apartments in Desirable Cities

Securing a furnished apartment in big cities can be daunting, but understanding the local housing landscape can make it much easier. Here’s an overview on how to navigate furnished apartment options in New York, Tampa, Phoenix, and Dallas, tailored to each city’s specific market dynamics.

New York

New York’s bustling real estate market is known for its high demand and variety. Corporate housing providers are excellent options for professionals seeking high-quality, fully furnished apartments in desirable areas like White Plains or the Upper East Side. These options often include flexible lease terms, utilities, and modern amenities.

For a more permanent feel, New York-specific real estate platforms such as StreetEasy can help you find long-term, fully furnished rentals in areas like Brooklyn, where local landlords often furnish apartments to attract young professionals. Short-term options include extended-stay hotels that offer high-end suites for those seeking shorter-term comfort combined with luxury amenities.

Tampa

In Tampa, the growing economy has spurred a demand for furnished apartments, especially in vibrant, up-and-coming neighborhoods like the Channel District and Hyde Park Village. Here, corporate housing services cater to relocating professionals and healthcare workers, offering flexible lease options in fully furnished spaces with utilities included.

Tampa’s short-term rental market is robust, with Airbnb and Vrbo offering furnished apartments in neighborhoods near waterfront parks or bustling downtown areas. These apartments are ideal for visitors or digital nomads looking for temporary housing close to the city’s attractions. Tampa’s laid-back atmosphere means you’ll often find furnished apartments that blend modern conveniences and local charm, with easy access to beaches and outdoor activities.

Phoenix

Phoenix’s rapid growth, driven by its booming tech and healthcare industries, has created a high demand for short-term furnished housing. The city is known for its luxury furnished apartment communities, where you’ll find fully equipped apartments with access to pools, gyms, and scenic views of the desert.

Phoenix’s corporate housing market is geared toward professionals needing temporary stays, offering furnished apartments with leases that match the city’s fast-paced development cycle. Additionally, the city’s sunny climate attracts many seasonal visitors, leading to a thriving market for furnished rentals through platforms like Airbnb, where entire houses or condos are available for medium-term stays in popular areas like Arcadia or Downtown Phoenix.

Dallas

Dallas has long been a hotspot for business travelers and professionals relocating for work, and its housing market reflects this with a wide array of fully furnished apartment options. Sophisticated communities cater to the city’s businesspeople, offering sleek, modern furnished apartments with flexible leases that include high-end amenities such as rooftop pools and coworking spaces.

Suburban areas like Irving, Richardson or Friso are also good options, especially for families and long-term visitors looking for furnished homes with easy access to local schools and parks. For shorter stays, platforms like Vrbo offer unique, furnished properties near the city’s cultural hubs, such as Deep Ellum and Bishop Arts District, giving travelers a unique experience in Dallas’s more historic neighborhoods.

Advantages of Short-Term Rentals With Utilities

Included In addition to offering fully furnished living spaces, many apartment providers include utilities in the rental price. This can be a huge benefit for anyone looking to avoid setting up utility accounts, managing bills, or dealing with unexpected costs. Here are a few reasons why choosing furnished apartments with utilities included can benefit you:

• Simplified Budgeting: With utilities included, you know exactly what your monthly expenses will be, making it easier to budget. This is particularly beneficial for those on short-term assignments or moving frequently, as you won’t have to deal with fluctuating utility costs.
• No Setup Required: Setting up accounts for electricity, water, internet, and gas can be time-consuming, especially when you’re in a new city. By opting for an apartment with utilities included, you can move in immediately and have everything set up for you, saving time and effort
• Predictability for Longer Stays: If you’re staying for an extended period, having utilities bundled into your rent makes it seamless — no utility deposits or transferring services.
• All-Inclusive Living: Furnished apartments with utilities included often come with added perks like high-speed internet, cable TV, and access to building amenities. These added services enhance your living experience, offering more comfort and convenience without additional costs.

Furnished Apartment at AVE Phoenix Terra

Tips for Securing a Furnished Apartment

Now that you know where to find furnished apartments and the benefits they offer, here are some practical tips for securing a seamless renting experience:

1. Research Neighborhoods. Each city has unique areas that may align more closely with your lifestyle and preferences. For example, in New York, cities like White Plains offer the convenience of a strong commuter area with easy access to Manhattan. In Phoenix, downtown is great for professionals, while areas like Arcadia cater to those who love the outdoors. Research the best neighborhoods based on proximity to work, lifestyle, and amenities before committing to a rental.
2. Check Reviews and Testimonials. Before committing to any furnished apartment, check online reviews. This can give you insight into the quality of the furnishings, the responsiveness of the property management, and the overall experience of living in the community.
3. Look for Flexible Lease Terms. Make sure the lease terms align with your needs. Many furnished apartments with utilities included offer flexible month-to-month options or leases as short as three months, which can be ideal if you’re uncertain about the length of your stay.
4. Verify What’s Included. Always verify what’s included in the rent — furnishings, utilities, internet, and any additional services. This can help you avoid misunderstandings and ensure there are no hidden costs.
5. Consider Flexible-Stay Options. Instead of navigating general real estate platforms, explore providers like AVE Living, which offers long-term living spaces tailored to your needs. With locations across the U.S. and amenities such as 24-hour fitness centers, flex workspaces, and resort pools, AVE delivers comfort and convenience.

Finding Your Ideal Furnished Apartment

Furnished apartments provide an easy solution for those in need of short-term or flexible housing in major cities. Whether you’re a business traveler in New York, a digital nomad in Tampa, or someone relocating to Phoenix, knowing where and how to find furnished apartments with utilities included can simplify your search and enhance your living experience.

By prioritizing convenience, comfort, and flexibility, you can find the perfect furnished apartment to meet your needs and enjoy a seamless transition into your new living space. With the right research and a clear understanding of what’s available, your move to a desirable city can be seamless and exciting.

At AVE, we specialize in providing fully furnished apartments that are designed to be a comfortable and flexible living solution. With best-in-class amenities, high-speed internet, high-touch, friendly service, and desirable locations, AVE is your trusted partner for a seamless home away from home. View our locations today to book your stay!