New national survey data shows the U.S. rent-to-own industry remains a significant retail sector serving millions of American households while supporting thousands of jobs and local businesses.

According to the 2025 Annual Rent-to-Own Industry Health Survey, the industry generated approximately $11.5 billion in total revenue in 2024, with 5,798 brick-and-mortar stores operating across the United States. The sector employed more than 37,000 store-level workers, paid $1.46 billion in annual wages, and purchased $1.95 billion in new Inventory during the year.

These findings illustrate the scale and economic impact of rent-to-own businesses, which provide flexible access to essential household goods such as appliances, electronics, furniture, and tires.

How Many Americans Use Rent-to-Own? #

The survey estimates that 4.63 million American households used rent-to-own services during 2024, representing approximately one out of every 29 U.S. households.

At any given time, about 2.97 million customers have active rent-to-own agreements, demonstrating the ongoing demand for flexible retail payment options.

The typical household using rent-to-own spent:

• $1,989 per year
• $165.79 per month on average

Many consumers choose rent-to-own because it allows them to obtain products immediately while maintaining flexibility. Customers can return items at any time without long-term debt obligations.

Payment schedules are also designed for flexibility. According to the survey:

• 61% of customers pay weekly or bi-weekly
• 39% pay monthly

This payment flexibility allows customers to align purchases with their personal income schedules.

Economic Impact of the Rent-to-Own Industry #

The rent-to-own sector contributes significantly to local economies through employment, purchasing, and retail activity.

Key economic metrics from the survey include:

• $11.5 billion total U.S. rent-to-own revenue
• 5,798 retail locations
• 37,078 store-level employees
• 42,115 total employees
• $1.46 billion in annual wages
• $1.95 billion in Inventory purchases

On average, each rent-to-own store generates approximately $1.09 million in annual revenue, demonstrating the economic footprint of the industry in communities across the country.

Beyond store-level employment, the industry also supports manufacturers, logistics providers, service technicians, and vendors that supply products and services to rental dealers.

Consumer Protections and Service Model #

One of the defining characteristics of rent-to-own is the service model that accompanies rental agreements.

The survey found that most rent-to-own dealers provide extensive service benefits to customers:

• 97% provide free product service and repairs
• 92% offer loaner products while repairs are completed
• 97% provide lifetime Reinstatement options

The lifetime Reinstatement feature allows customers to return a product and later re-rent the same item while receiving credit for payments already made.

These features differentiate rent-to-own from many other retail models by emphasizing flexibility, service, and consumer choice.

Trends in the Rent-to-Own Marketplace #

Despite economic headwinds such as inflation, rising interest rates, and reduced discretionary spending, the industry has remained resilient.

The survey shows that rent-to-own revenue remains higher than pre-pandemic levels, when the industry generated approximately $11.1 billion in 2020.

Dealer sentiment about the future of the industry is also strong.

According to the survey:

• 64% of dealers report being somewhat optimistic about the future
• 30% report being very optimistic
• Only 6% report being pessimistic

This level of optimism suggests continued innovation and growth in the sector.

Vendor and Product Trends #

Suppliers serving the rent-to-own industry also report evolving product demand.

The most common requests from dealers include:

• Higher-end consumer electronics and appliances
• Expanded electronic payment options
• Lower-cost product options to maintain weekly affordability
• Tools to reduce insurance and operational costs

These trends reflect broader shifts in consumer technology usage and purchasing preferences.

Key Rent-to-Own Industry Statistics #

Industry Size #

Metric	Value
Total U.S. Rent-to-Own Revenue	$11.5 billion
Total Stores	5,798
Active Customers	2.97 million
Households Served in 2024	4.63 million

Employment and Wages #

Metric	Value
Store Employees	37,078
Annual Wages	$1.46 billion
Average Employees per Store	6.4

Customer Spending #

Metric	Value
Average Annual Household Spend	$1,989
Average Monthly Spend	$165.79

Industry Investment #

Metric	Value
Inventory Purchases in 2024	$1.95 billion

Why Rent-to-Own Continues to Serve Millions of Americans #

Rent-to-own remains an important retail option for households seeking flexibility in acquiring essential goods.

Unlike traditional credit purchases, rent-to-own agreements allow consumers to:

• obtain products immediately
• make payments over time
• return products if circumstances change
• avoid long-term debt obligations

For millions of Americans, this flexibility provides access to appliances, electronics, and furniture that support everyday life.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Rent-to-Own Industry #