More than one year into the pandemic, renters are prioritizing rent deals that promise more space and better amenities, according to a recent RENTCafé survey. And since nothing says more space and amenities galore better than a high-end apartment, we wanted to see where in the U.S. you could rent a higher-quality apartment at the greatest value: a feasible rent price, generous square footage and a coveted location.

READ ALSO: Phoenix market ranks No. 3 for year-over-year rent growth

High-end can describe a wide range of apartments — from resort-style communities to crisp high-rises with exquisite finishes to unique apartments near plenty of job opportunities, world-renowned restaurants, and entertainment options for every taste. We all dream of living in a larger place in a better location with a great view and a reasonable monthly rent. But, where can you make the most out of living large?

To discover the sweet spots of quality and price, we checked the average rent and size of high-end apartments in more than 600 cities and towns using Yardi Matrix apartment data. And, because having a wide selection is important, we also factored in the share of high-end apartments in each city, as well as how many of those apartments are in what are considered to be top locations within that city.

It turns out that, when it comes to renting high-end apartments, small cities will get you the most bang for your buck.

Looking to live large? Turn to small cities for the best high-end deals

If you’re working with a budget, but still want to live large, small cities are the way to go. With monthly prices in the low $1,000s and apartment sizes between 1,000 – 1,300 sq. ft., these cities are proof that comfort doesn’t have to come at an excessive price.

The best city for renting a high-end apartment at great value in the U.S. is Hoover, AL, the largest suburb in the Birmingham metro. Offering the best mix of quality, size, location and price, Hoover high-end apartments have an average size of 1,147 sq. ft. for less than $1,100 per month. The city is also a great choice if you like your luxury living with a side of golf and boating.

Coming in second for best value is Warner Robins, GA voted this year’s best place to live in Houston County, Georgia. Here, for around $1,000, you can live in a high-end rental of around 1,164 sq. ft. Also recognized as one of the best places to live in the country is Shawnee, KS, third in the top, which has some of the most spacious apartments on the list — 1,231 sq. ft. on average at a price of $1,173 per month.

In fourth place is history-heavy Columbus, GA, a city that can scratch your outdoorsy itch no matter your preferred adventure. River rafting, hiking, outdoor concerts and so much more await you here along with top-quality, spacious apartments at a great value.

Meanwhile, Phenix City sets itself apart with the largest apartments among our top entries, averaging 1,276 sq. ft. Located on the Georgia-Alabama border and taking fifth place in the top, this town of around 40,000 residents may surprise you with the best of both states.

Looking for high end apartments in Arizona? Here’s where to find them:

• Oro Valley is one of the best places to live in Arizona, and number one in our high-end renting areas in the state. With an average rent of $1,374 and apartments averaging 1,026 square feet, Oro Valley offers the cheapest and largest apartments in our top 5, and they are all in great locations.

• Mesa opens the list of Phoenix suburbs. With an average rent of $1,390, apartments here are the cheapest, while offering 990 sq. ft.

• At 1,017 square feet, Gilbert apartments are the largest among the four Phoenix suburbs, but also the most expensive – $1,518. One advantage they have is that over half of them are in top locations (55%).

• The ranking is closed by Glendale – $1,423 for 977 square feet, and Peoria – $1,414 for 942 square feet.

Wondering how Arizona cities rank? Here’s a look.