The Most Popular Cities and Locations in the Northern United States

The northern United States covers a broad and diverse region stretching from the Great Lakes to New England. This part of the country offers a mix of major economic hubs, college towns, manufacturing centers, and scenic lakeside communities. For renters, the North provides a blend of affordability, cultural depth, and strong job markets, although climates here tend to be colder and more seasonal. Below is a detailed look at the most popular northern cities and locations.

1. Chicago, Illinois

Why it’s popular: Chicago is the largest city in the northern U.S. outside the East Coast and acts as a financial, transportation, and cultural hub. Neighborhoods like Lincoln Park (ZIP 60614), West Loop (60607), and Hyde Park (60615) attract students, young professionals, and families.

Market note: Chicago offers a wide range of rental inventory, from high-rise buildings downtown to historic walk-ups in surrounding neighborhoods.

2. Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota

Why it’s popular: The Twin Cities offer strong employment in healthcare, retail, and corporate headquarters. Popular areas include Uptown Minneapolis (ZIP 55408) and St. Paul’s Highland Park (55116). Renters value the region’s parks, lakes, and high quality of life.

3. Detroit, Michigan

Why it’s popular: Detroit has seen significant revitalization, especially in Midtown (ZIP 48201) and Downtown (48226). The metro area is known for affordability and large suburban communities such as Troy and Novi.

4. Cleveland, Ohio

Why it’s popular: Cleveland offers some of the most affordable rents in the northern U.S. Neighborhoods like Ohio City (ZIP 44113) and University Circle (44106) attract renters looking for walkable areas near universities and cultural institutions.

5. Buffalo, New York

Why it’s popular: Buffalo’s resurgence has made it attractive to renters seeking lower-cost living combined with access to Lake Erie. Areas like Elmwood Village (ZIP 14222) are among the most desirable.

6. Rochester and Syracuse, New York

Why they’re popular: These upstate cities have strong connections to universities, research centers, and healthcare employers. Rochester’s 14620 ZIP and Syracuse’s 13210 remain rental hubs for students and young professionals.

7. Portland, Maine

Why it’s popular: Portland (ZIP 04101) attracts renters seeking a small coastal city with high livability, vibrant local food culture, and scenic views. It is especially popular among remote workers and young professionals relocating from larger metros.

8. Burlington, Vermont

Why it’s popular: Home to universities and surrounded by outdoor recreation, Burlington (ZIP 05401) offers a blend of college-town energy and natural beauty. The rental market is competitive due to limited inventory.

9. Madison, Wisconsin

Why it’s popular: Madison combines a major university, state government employment, and a strong tech presence. Neighborhoods near the downtown isthmus (ZIP 53703) are especially popular for their walkability and amenities.

10. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Why it’s popular: Pittsburgh blends affordability with a growing tech and healthcare sector. Areas such as Shadyside (ZIP 15232) and Lawrenceville (15201) continue to attract renters looking for a mix of historic architecture and modern amenities.

Summary: Choosing a Northern U.S. Location

The northern states offer a wide variety of rental environments — dense urban hubs like Chicago, revitalized cities like Detroit and Cleveland, and smaller lifestyle-driven metros such as Portland, ME or Burlington, VT. Renters choosing the North often prioritize affordability, access to major employers, and proximity to lakes, forests, and outdoor recreation. ZIP code examples above show how neighborhood selection can significantly influence rent levels, commute patterns, and lifestyle choices.