Key takeaways
- The Census metro table covers the 75 largest MSAs.
- Metro estimates are not neighborhood or property estimates.
- Comparisons need geography and margin-of-error notes.
Source record
3 cited sources
Last verified
2026-08-08
In this article
Quick Overview
The Census Housing Vacancy and Homeownership program provides a 2026 table of rental vacancy rates for the 75 largest metropolitan statistical areas. The table is a useful screening layer for a portfolio owner deciding which markets deserve deeper review.
Build a comparable set
Start with the market note comparability method. Record the MSA definition, quarter, unit type, margin of error, and whether the portfolio sits inside or outside the reported geography. Then add property-level vacancy, exposure, and lease-up evidence.
Common Mistakes
Do not rank markets using rounded estimates alone. Do not treat an MSA as a submarket, and do not turn a survey estimate into a forecast of next month's vacancy.
Method and limits
The Census metro vacancy table is a survey product. Census publishes source and accuracy material, and sampling error can matter when differences are small.
Common Questions Answered
Is a metro rate enough for acquisition underwriting?
No. It helps screen markets, while rent rolls, listings, concessions, and local supply evidence support underwriting.
Should every metro be compared?
Only when the same quarter, definition, and decision rule are used.
Ready to compare markets?
Use investment analysis to keep the geography and evidence trail explicit.
Sources
- Census HVS rates and metro tables, accessed August 8, 2026.
- Census HVS source and accuracy materials, accessed August 8, 2026.