back and forth between houses?

due to divorced parents, I have to stay at both houses for an about equal time each week. my two boys are currently at one house, and I was thinking of getting another cage for the other house to take them with me when I go back and forth between houses.

would this be too stressful for them? should I just leave them at one house?

I think that depends on the rat. I have had a few I wouldn’t do that with but most of mine were more stressed at not being with ME vs. not being in the same cage.

It would likely be helpful if you had the same cage set up the same way at both homes
I have travelled with my rats and they have been fine
but I assume that you do not have to go far

Set the cages up the same way and out some of their scent in the new cage. My girls would be freaked out if I disappeared for half the week.

I would certainly give it a try.

I'd definitely take them with me! and if you can get another cage it'll save you having to move theirs back & forth...
I crittersit ratties, I've had quite a few different groups, and most clients use a cage I set up for them here, rather than transport theirs. The kids always seem very happy & excited to have new space to explore, and don't act stressed at all with me, so I don't think yours will have any issues with the changes.
You could always put a used hammock or hideyhouse in the new cage the first time you transfer if you think it will give them comfort, after that they'll certainly remember both cages as home.