Short answer: yes, but it’s not as simple as renting a sofa. When I moved into a city apartment for a one-year work contract, I wanted a small balcony setup—two chairs, a tiny table, maybe a weatherproof rug—without buying things I’d have to sell or move later. Here’s what I learned.
National furniture rental companies often have outdoor collections, especially in metro areas. You can usually choose a 3-, 6-, or 12-month term, and they deliver, set up, and pick up. The catch is minimum rental periods and fees. Some pieces may be limited to select cities, and not every company stocks patio furniture.
Subscription furniture services are another option. They’re geared toward renters and often let you swap pieces or cancel with notice. Outdoor items might include lounge chairs, bistro sets, umbrellas, and planters. They can be convenient, but read the fine print: monthly cost, delivery, cleaning, and damage waivers add up.
Rent-to-own is also possible. You make monthly payments and eventually own the furniture. It can work if you might stay longer or want to keep the pieces, but the total price is often much higher than buying outright. If you’re definitely leaving in a year, it’s usually not the cheapest route.
Local event and party rental companies sometimes rent patio furniture for longer terms, especially in slower seasons. They’re built for short-term events, so ask if they do residential one-year rentals. Some do; many don’t. Apartment buildings are another hidden source: furnished units, amenity decks, or landlord partnerships may include balcony furniture. Ask your property manager before you sign.
If none of those fit, the practical move is to buy used and resell. I found a sturdy bistro set on a local marketplace for less than three months of rental fees, used it for a year, and sold it for about half what I paid. That’s not rental, but for a one-year stay it’s often the smartest budget hack.
Before you rent, compare the total cost: rental fee x 12, delivery, pickup, cleaning, damage waiver, and any minimum term penalty. Also check your lease, HOA rules, and building policies about balconies and outdoor furniture. Weather matters, too—if you’re in a rainy or windy city, choose materials that won’t rust or blow away. And measure your space; urban balconies are smaller than photos suggest.
So yes, rental options exist for urban outdoor furniture on a one-year stay. They’re just not one-size-fits-all. If you want zero hassle, a furniture rental or subscription service is easiest. If you want the lowest cost, buy used and resell. And if you’re unsure, ask your landlord first—sometimes the furniture is already there.