7 Smart Thermostats Perfect for Renters: Energy Efficiency Without the Installation Hassle

Living in a rental property shouldn’t stand in the way of optimizing your home’s comfort and reducing energy bills. The latest smart thermostats deliver energy savings and advanced features—all without the need for complex or permanent installation. Whether you’re looking to control your heating and cooling from your phone, use voice assistants, or set up schedules that adapt to your busy lifestyle, these top picks are perfect for renters who want to make their space smarter and greener.

Why Renters Need Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats aren’t just for homeowners. In fact, renters stand to gain numerous benefits:

• Lower energy bills: Automated temperature schedules and eco-modes save money.
• Remote access: Adjust your climate from anywhere using your phone or voice assistant.
• Minimal or no installation: Many new models work right out of the box, without hardwiring.
• Easy removal: Move the device with you when your lease ends.
• Improved comfort: Personalized settings that fit any lifestyle.

What to Look for in a Rental-Friendly Smart Thermostat

As a renter, you want a thermostat that:

• Doesn’t require wiring modifications (especially in apartments or older homes).
• Supports easy DIY installation and removal without damaging the wall.
• Works with your existing HVAC system (check for compatibility).
• Offers app or voice control for convenience.
• Features energy usage stats to help you track and improve efficiency.

With these factors in mind, let’s explore the seven best smart thermostats for renters seeking energy efficiency and hassle-free setup.

1. Google Nest Thermostat (2020)

Why It’s Great for Renters

The Google Nest Thermostat (2020) is designed with simplicity and DIY installation in mind. Most renters can install it in under 30 minutes thanks to its intuitive app-guided setup, and it works with most standard heating/cooling systems.

• No C-wire? No problem: The Nest Power Connector (sold separately) covers homes that lack a “common wire.”
• Sleek, compact, and modern: Fits into any décor and is easy to remove when you move out.
• Remote and voice control: Works with Google Assistant and Alexa.
• Energy-saving features: “Savings Finder” suggests ways to optimize your settings for efficiency.
• Schedule learning: Automatically adapts to your preferred routines but is easy to reset for new tenants.

Installation hassle: Minimal, no professional required, and no holes larger than standard wall plate size.

2. Wyze Programmable WiFi Thermostat

Why It’s Great for Renters

Wyze is known for affordable, user-friendly tech, and their smart thermostat is no exception. It’s perfect for renters due to:

• Budget-friendly price point: Get smart features without breaking the bank.
• Straightforward DIY install: Clear online guides, plus includes a C-wire adapter for homes without one.
• Mobile and voice control: Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant.
• User-specific schedules: Easily tailor the heating/cooling schedule to your needs and reset for move-out.
• Energy history tracking: Quickly identify energy-saving opportunities.

Installation hassle: Low, with clear install video and phone support if you’re unsure.

3. ecobee3 lite Smart Thermostat

Why It’s Great for Renters

The ecobee3 lite offers robust ecosystem connectivity and installation flexibility—perfect for tech-savvy renters:

• Broad compatibility: Works with most HVAC systems and includes easy-to-follow installation guides.
• Room sensor-ready: Add optional sensors for personalized comfort (great for roommates or larger apartments).
• App and voice integration: Use Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, and SmartThings.
• No complex wiring needed: C-wire support, or use the included Power Extender Kit for older systems.
• Elegant, low-profile design: Looks professional and is easily removed or replaced at move-out.

Installation hassle: Very low, with step-by-step app instructions and compatibility checker tool.

4. Emerson Sensi Touch Smart Thermostat

Why It’s Great for Renters

This highly-rated smart thermostat is quick to install and perfect for anyone looking for an intuitive touchscreen interface within a rental:

• Fast DIY setup: Most renters can install in 30 minutes; detailed video guides provided.
• Broad compatibility: Works with common heating and cooling systems, supports Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
• Mobile app control: No matter where you are, control your climate remotely.
• Energy saving scheduling: Easily program for one-week or variable schedules and instantly return to default before moving out.
• Geofencing support: Adjusts temperature based on whether you’re home or away for extra savings.

Installation hassle: Plugs into existing wiring, and wall plate covers old holes for a tidy rent-ready look.

5. Mysa Smart Thermostat for Electric Baseboard Heaters

Why It’s Great for Renters

If you live in a home or apartment with electric baseboard or in-wall heaters, the Mysa Smart Thermostat is your best choice:

• Purpose-built: Specifically designed for high- and line-voltage systems, which many smart thermostats don’t support.
• Simple installation: Wire-in design, but with clear instructions; ideal for renters allowed to do minor electrical updates.
• Works with smart home hubs: Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and SmartThings.
• Manual override: Landlord-friendly if a basic thermostat needs to be re-installed later.
• Insights and scheduling: Detailed energy tracking and custom scheduling for energy savings.

Installation hassle: Slightly higher than others on this list due to wire-in, but still very manageable for those comfortable with basic home projects (or contact your landlord or a licensed electrician).

6. Sensi Smart Thermostat (Non-Touch Version)

Why It’s Great for Renters

This value-packed, non-touch version of the Sensi is ideal for rental properties for its:

• Super-easy installation: No C-wire required for most setups and uses existing wall plate and wiring.
• Low-profile, familiar look: Blends in like a traditional thermostat—great for landlords who don’t want a flashy device.
• App and voice compatibility: Control via phone, Alexa, or Google Assistant.
• Flexible scheduling and overrides: Easily update schedules or revert to defaults if you move.
• Energy reporting: See how much you’re saving month to month.

Installation hassle: Among the easiest smart thermostats to install—no new holes or complicated wiring.

7. Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat

Why It’s Great for Renters

The T9 is all about smart room sensor integration, making it a favorite for renters who want zoning without rewiring:

• Easy self-install: Comes with an easy-to-mount plate and clear app-driven instructions.
• Room-by-room comfort: Optional smart sensors detect presence and adjust temperature for those active spaces.
• Mobile and smart home integration: