1.5-2 sq ft. per rat is most ideal for pet rats. 

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Rats are fossorial creatures, which in this case means they generally prefer burrowing (and need burrowing) and low spaces over climbing up high. If you want to go all out and get a huge cage for your rats, many owners and breeders swear by Critter Nations. However, rats can be messy and shove bedding out the bars or urinate down the sides. This can partially be prevented by installing appropriately sized cement mixing tubs (commonly found at hardware stores). Sometimes the edges need to be trimmed before they can fit inside. You would insert the tub into the bottom of the cage and fill with bedding like normal. That way, it's easier to clean and is much more sanitary. 

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Bin cages are another favorite among breeders. Bin cages are usually 110+ qt. and can be purchased from places like Target or Walmart for around $13. Click here to see one! That is just a standard size for a few rats, you can definitely go bigger if you have the space! Some people have used clear Christmas tree tubs as well, which are usually sold around the holidays and are gigantic. 

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I will be adding a tutorial with photos on how to make these bins at some point, but for now I will explain. 

First, cut windows out of at least 2 sides of the bin. This part is very important, ventilation is a must. Don't cut them too low or the rats will shove bedding out the sides and make a mess. You can also cut out the lid if you want, which can provide even more ventilation, but it's optional. (be careful on this part, some bin lids warp and won't close properly if cut too much) 

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Measure and cut hardware cloth to fit the windows. Cut holes around the windows to attach the hardware cloth. You can do this with zip ties (metal ones), bendable wire, or nuts and bolts. Make sure it's secure and tight and that the rats can't fit their heads through any spaces, and make sure the wire is placed from the INSIDE of the bin (this prevents chewing the plastic). Once the hardware cloth is attached, make sure no wires are poking out to avoid injury. 

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Add bedding, toys, hides, and rats once completed! It is still possible to hang hammocks, even in bin cages. It's a little easier if you cut a window in the lid, but you can easily attach them on the sides of the bin with wire as well. If you got an especially large bin, you could also put in wheels and many more toys! 

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(these are just photos gathered from Google and do not belong to me, but they are good examples of bin cages!)

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