With home buying reaching a new low, more people are looking to rent. Even with increased demand, Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies found some U.S. cities that are still refreshingly rent-friendly.

1. Des Moines, Iowa

By Roya Wolverson | @royaclare | June 1, 2011 | +

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Des Moines was ranked as one of the top “overall performing cities” in the country during the recession, according to a recent Brookings Institute report. Its low unemployment rate (6.1% in April) has buoyed the economy, while top public schooling and low living costs have made it a magnet for young families. Plus, only 17.9% of renters in this city pay more than 50% of household income for rent and utilities.

Next: 2. Harrisburg, Penn.

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