The Central Florida rental market has shifted in the opposite direction after years of rising prices and fierce competition. Renters in Orlando, Kissimmee, Sanford, and Palm Bay are finding more options. But what’s driving this shift, and what does it mean for you? Let’s look at the latest rental market trends heading into 2026.
Central Florida Rental Market Trends
After several years of sharp increases, rent prices across Central Florida dipped— marking the first seasonal decline in over three years. By spring 2025, prices began to climb, but average open market rental rates were commonly $150-$250 more than the previous summer.
A surge in new construction, from apartment communities to single-family rentals, has expanded the housing supply in areas like Orlando, Sanford, and Palm Bay. With more units available, average rents have leveled off compared to the highs of 2022 and 2023, giving tenants some relief and signaling a more balanced market.
Why Rent Prices Are Cooling in Central Florida
Several factors are contributing to the cooling trend in the Central Florida rental market:
Builders have added thousands of new single-family homes and apartments across Central Florida. As the housing supply catches up with demand, this has eased pressure on the market.
During the peak pandemic years, people flocked to Florida from out of state in large numbers. With the market cooling and fewer people now relocating, locals face less competition for available rentals.
Previously, interest rate spikes and inflation kept more people renting and for longer periods of time. With inflation slowing and job growth steady, rental demand is naturally balancing across the region.
Varying Rental Experiences Across Central Florida
Of course, not every area is experiencing the same changes. Each region shows its own rental trends.
Orlando and Kissimmee
Rents have steadied, and mid-range homes are easier to find. This gives renters more negotiating power or options than before.
Sanford and Deltona
Inventory growth has allowed renters to negotiate or find newer homes at competitive rates. These towns have cooled to a more balanced market compared to the national average, with rent rates about 7% lower.
Palm Bay and Melbourne
These cities have seen the slowest rent growth in the region, making them some of Central Florida’s most affordable spots in 2026. Renters may find more affordable options available with rent rates that have remained relatively stable during 2025.
What This Means for Renters in 2026
With the market stabilizing, renters can finally take their time to make informed decisions:
More Choices, Less Urgency
In previous years, rental applicants faced such fierce competition for available homes that they often had to take the first rental they found available. With more properties on the market, tenants can spend more time researching, planning, and touring potential homes.
Opportunity to Negotiate
With fewer applicants scrambling for limited rentals, some landlords are willing to sweeten the lease agreement with a few enhancements. In fact, some landlords may be willing to adjust prices, offer longer or more flexible lease options, or add move-in specials.
Upgrading Made Easier
Have you wanted to upgrade to a newer or larger home? With a cooling market and newer properties available, now might be the right time to upgrade without facing a major rent increase.
How to Take Advantage of Central Florida’s Cooling Rental Market
As lease agreements end, tenants can benefit from this more balanced rental market— if they plan strategically.
Start early. Begin your search long before your current lease ends to compare listings and neighborhoods.
Ask about incentives. If you like your current place, ask about any special offers or longer lease discounts your landlord or property management company may offer. If you’re looking at new properties, ask those landlords or property managers about their deal sweeteners.
Track market updates. Keep checking local listings and watching for market trend changes. While things may look stable now in Central Florida, seasonal demand could quickly change things.
Work with experts. Partner with The Realty Medics, your trusted property management team, to find a rental that fits your budget and lifestyle. We have properties in neighborhoods throughout Central Florida that you may not have considered yet.
Don’t Expect a Major Market Crash
The Central Florida rental market in 2026 is simply normalizing after years of record-breaking growth. Increased supply and steadier demand mean more stability, not a collapse.
For renters, this is good news: more choices and more leverage than they’ve had in a long time.
Whether you’re renewing your lease or searching for a new home, understanding these trends can help you make confident decisions and find the best fit for your needs in 2026. The Realty Medics can help you find your next rental home and support you with essential services through a tenant portal.
