At Nomad, we hear this question all the time from property owners: Should I rent my unit furnished or unfurnished? Each choice comes with trade-offs that can impact your income, leasing speed, and tenant pool. Here’s what our national data reveals — and some key considerations for you to weigh.

The Numbers: What Furnished Listings Earn and How They Perform

Over the past six months, we analyzed long-term rental listings across the Nomad platform. Here’s what we found:

• Higher Rents: Furnished properties leased at 108% of our internal rent estimate on average, compared to 103% for unfurnished units. For a typical rent of around $2,500, that translates to an extra $125 per month.

• Fewer Inquiries: Furnished listings attract 14 inquiries on average before leasing, while unfurnished units draw 30 inquiries. This reflects a smaller, more niche pool of renters actively looking for furnished housing.

• Longer Leasing Times: Only 12% of furnished properties leased within 30 days, versus 32% of unfurnished units. Average days on market also favors unfurnished — 27 days vs. 34 days for furnished units.

Because furnished units tend to have a narrower audience and longer lease-up times, we also see a higher rate of furnished listings being pulled from the market. In many cases, owners decide to pivot to short-term rentals or even sell the unit instead.

Why These Differences?

Furnished rentals cater to a different type of renter: typically those in transition, relocating for work, or seeking short-term flexibility. While these renters are willing to pay more for convenience and flexibility, they’re a smaller slice of the market. This can lead to slower lease-ups and less competition for your property, even as the price premium holds up.

Location Matters

It’s worth noting that these stats are national averages. In some markets — especially those with large corporate, tech, or medical hubs — furnished units can be a strong differentiator and see even better returns. But in others, where long-term residents tend to have their own furnishings, sticking with an unfurnished approach might be the better move.

Should You Furnish Your Rental?

If you’re thinking about furnishing your rental, ask yourself:

✅ Does my local market have strong demand for furnished units (corporate relocations, traveling nurses, digital nomads, etc.)?
✅ Am I comfortable with potentially slower leasing and higher turnover?
✅ Do I have the time to handle added wear and tear and extra maintenance?

For many owners, the answer depends on personal flexibility and the property’s location. If you’re unsure, consider starting with one unit and testing the market.

Need Help Pricing Your Rental?

Deciding between furnished and unfurnished is just one piece of the pricing puzzle. At Nomad, we work with landlords to analyze local demand, set competitive prices, and maximize your rental income.

Check out our in-depth guide on pricing strategies here: How to Get the Best Price for Your Rental Property.