Going green will help save the planet, and could save you money. If you're a renter looking for an eco-friendly apartment, look no further than Tempe, which has come in at #6 on Apartment Guide's new list of the greenest U.S. cities for renters, with a percentage of green communities coming in at 23.33%!
Criteria included green amenities from solar panels and smart thermostats to LEED-certified buildings and available electric vehicle charging station, and more.
A big factor that contributed to Tempe's high rank is the presence of Arizona State University, which lends itself to a young, motivated population, noting that in a city of 200,000, that 50,000 are ASU students.
Just as important, though, is its 3% Native American population, indigenous people who have a history of keeping the environment health and thriving.
And just like Phoenix proper, this desert oasis in the heart of the Sonoran desert, Tempe historically has had to conserve water to combat droughts, limited rainfall, and the scorching temperatures it's known for!
Both owned properties and rental units in Tempe are well equipped with sustainable and conservative measures, including a proliferation of solar panels, water catchers, and natural shade.
Find out which U.S. cities round out the Top 10 here!
