Why Renters Want EV-Ready Living & Why It Matters for You.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a fringe movement—they’re everywhere, and they’re accelerating fast. With global EV sales projected to top 20 million units in 2025 (IEA), and battery prices down more than 90% since 2010, EVs are more affordable, accessible, and in demand than ever.
And one group is driving that demand: renters.
EVs Are Mainstream. Renters Are Ready.
Today’s renters are younger, more urban, and deeply sustainability-minded. In fact:
34.9% of U.S. households are renters (U.S. Census Bureau, 2025)
Gen Z makes up 47% of recent renters (WSJ, 2025)
23% of renters own an EV
14% of those in multi-unit properties own an EV
29% of renters and 23% of those living in multi-unit properties plan to buy an EV within 3-years (2023 Electric Vehicle Residential Customer Survey)
58% would pay more in rent for on-site EV charging (Multifamily Executive)
Renters want more than granite countertops—they want green living, and EV charging is at the top of the list.
Gen Z Renters Are Driving the Push for EV Charging.
If you're not thinking about Gen Z (i.e., 20-30 years olds), you're already behind. In 2025, Gen Z makes up 47% of recent renters (WSJ), and they're reshaping the expectations for multifamily living—with sustainability leading the charge.
This generation isn’t just eco-conscious—they’re action-oriented. According to PDI Technologies, 91% of Gen Z consumers prefer to buy from sustainable companies, and 77% are willing to pay more for sustainable products and services. That same mindset extends to where they choose to live—and what amenities they expect.
In an era where EV ownership is surging, Gen Z renters are looking for EV-ready communities that match their values. They want to see visible commitments to clean energy, and on-site EV charging is quickly becoming a non-negotiable feature.
And it’s not just about attracting them—it’s about keeping them. 67% of Gen Z say they’re more likely to stay loyal to brands they trust, and 60% would stop engaging with a company if that trust is broken. For multifamily property owners, that means investing in sustainable amenities like EV charging isn't just smart—it's essential to earning and keeping the trust of tomorrow’s residents.
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s a leasing strategy.
If you're not thinking about Gen Z, you’re missing the moment. As the dominant force in the rental market, this generation isn’t just eco-conscious—they’re action-oriented:
91% want to support sustainable companies
77% are willing to pay more for eco-friendly products
67% are more loyal to brands they trust
60% will walk away from brands that don’t live up to their values (PDI Technologies, 2025)
They’re not just buying electric vehicles—they’re choosing to live where sustainability is visible, authentic, and part of the everyday experience. That’s why EV-ready communities are becoming non-negotiable.
If you're not thinking about Gen Z, you’re missing the moment. As the largest generational cohort in the rental market today,
Gen Z isn’t just changing what people drive—they’re changing where and how people want to live.
For property owners and developers, this presents a clear mandate: Gen Z renters are not just looking for a place to live—they’re looking for communities that reflect their commitment to a cleaner, smarter future.
They want to see visible investments in sustainability—from rooftop solar and energy-efficient appliances to EV charging stations they can actually use.
EV-ready living is no longer a bonus feature—it’s a baseline expectation for a generation that chooses with both their wallet and their conscience.
And the payoff? Properties that align with Gen Z values don’t just attract attention—they earn loyalty, drive referrals, and stay ahead of what’s next.
The Charging Gap Is Real.
While 80% of EV charging happens at home, only 5% of multifamily properties offer on-site EV charging (Canary Media, 2024). That’s a major disconnect.
For millions of renters, the lack of at-home charging isn’t just frustrating—it’s a dealbreaker. 31% say it’s a primary reason they haven’t gone electric. And even though the number of public chargers has doubled since 2020, home remains the most convenient and preferred place to plug in.
According to Pew Research, people who live within a mile of a charger are significantly more likely to buy an EV—but proximity alone isn't enough. Renters need charging where they live.
The Opportunity: EV Charging Is a Strategic Advantage.
Adding EV infrastructure isn’t just a feel-good upgrade—it’s a high-impact investment that pays off:
Attract and retain high-value tenants
Increase property value and lease-up speed
Boost sustainability credentials (LEED, ENERGY STAR, ESG goals)
Future-proof against shifting regulations and renter expectations
In cities like LA, San Francisco, and Seattle, EV infrastructure is already required in new builds—and more municipalities are following suit.
Incentives Make It Easier Than Ever.
With billions in funding available, there’s never been a better time to install EV charging:
Colorado – Charge Ahead grants offer up to $11,670 per charger; Xcel’s Make-Ready program covers infrastructure and maintenance.
New Jersey – “It Pay$ to Plug In” offers up to $6,000 per port, with additional support from Charge Up NJ.
Denver – Mobility Incentive Program prioritizes multifamily charging projects.
Nationally – A 30% federal tax credit is available, and utilities like BGE (MD) offer rebates up to $5,000 per port.
Your Renters Are Ready. Is Your Property?
Installing EV charging today means you’ll:
Stay ahead of local code changes
Stand out in a crowded rental market
Attract tenants willing to pay moreSupport a cleaner, smarter, more connected future
Let’s Plug In—Together.
At National Car Charging, we help multifamily property owners make EV charging simple, affordable, and successful. From navigating rebates to turnkey installs, we’ve got you covered.
📞 Call us at (866) 996-6387
📧 Email info@nationalcarcharging.com
🌐 Visit nationalcarcharging.com
Curious to learn more?
READ: Why Owning Your Charging Infrastructure Pays Off.
Third-party charging may sound easy—but ownership offers better ROI, long-term control, and greater flexibility. Explore NCC’s guide to EV charger ownership.