Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR) (NYSE: EQR) is a publicly traded real estate investment trust focused on the acquisition, development and management of high-quality rental apartment properties in the United States. The company’s portfolio emphasizes multi-family residential communities, offering a range of housing options from studio units to luxury high-rise apartments. Its business model centers on generating rental income through professional property management, targeted renovations and selective leasing strategies designed to enhance resident experience and long-term asset value.
Headquartered in Chicago, Equity Residential’s footprint spans major coastal and high barrier-to-entry markets, including New York City, Boston, Washington, D.C., Seattle, San Francisco and Southern California. The company’s assets encompass both garden-style complexes and urban towers, with an aggregate of over 80,000 apartment homes. Its geographic focus on high-demand rental markets supports stable occupancy levels and aligns with demographic trends favoring urban living and fractional homeownership alternatives.
Since its founding in 1993 by real estate investor Sam Zell, Equity Residential has grown through strategic acquisitions and selective development. A notable milestone was the acquisition of Archstone from The Blackstone Group in 2013, which expanded the company’s presence in key metropolitan areas. Over the years, EQR has pursued value-add opportunities, repositioning aging properties and integrating sustainability practices to meet evolving tenant preferences and regulatory requirements.
Equity Residential’s executive leadership team is led by Co-Chief Executive Officers Michael J. Mullen and David J. Neithercut, with Mark J. Parrell serving as President and Chief Operating Officer. Under their guidance, the company maintains a disciplined investment strategy, emphasizing operational efficiency and resident service. This leadership continuity supports Equity Residential’s objective of delivering consistent rental income streams and long-term shareholder value.
