When explaining her reasons for leaving England for the United States, she claimed that she had been getting excessive attention from journalists and British tabloid newspapers, and had just ended a relationship, factors which lead to her decision to settle in the United States for a period of time.

In the United Kingdom, it was certified Silver by the British Phonographic Industry, indicating sales in excess of 200,000 copies.

Critics praised Dido's intrepretation of lyrics, claiming that with "Life for Rent", she has "taken the limitations of her voice and made them strengths".

[4] Since its release, "Life for Rent" has been credited as "capturing the hearts of listeners around the world with its introspective lyrics and unique blend of pop, trip-hop, and electronic elements".

It's "evocative imagery and thought-provoking lyrics have sparked numerous interpretations, inviting listeners to delve deeper into the meanings and emotions" as claimed by one critic.