So you're ready to move out on your own!
It's time for an apartment hunting adventure. Whether it's looking for a bachelor/bachelorette pad or moving in with roommates, there are key things you need to know about paying for rent and utilities.
Cost Of Living Per Area
Depending on where you want to live, it could cost you a pretty penny!
Costs of living include:
Housing
Groceries
Insurance
Transportation
Healthcare
Basic Services
Different states have different costs of living:
$100 in Ohio will buy you goods and services that would cost $112.11 in states at the national average price level .
The same $100 in the District of Columbia buys you only $85.47 of the national average .
Hot Tips!
Follow the 50/30/20 Rule for your expenses budget:
50% for living expenses
30% for hobbies & entertainment
20% for emergencies & debt repayment
How Much Should I Spend On Rent?
You'll have to pay monthly rent to your landlord, so here are two rules of thumb for keeping your rent affordable:
40 Times Rent Rule
Your annual salary should be 40 times your monthly rent .
30% Max Rule
You can always cap your rent at 30% of your monthly income.
Hot Tips!
Use a rental calculator to help you plan your rental budget.
Have 2-3 month's rent saved up, as landlords typically ask for a 1 month down payment + first month's rent.
The 40 Times Rent and 30% Max rules don't account for taxes and your own personal financial situation, so make sure to factor those into your calculations.
Quiz
If you make $40,000 per year, how much should your rent cost based on the 40 Times Rent Rule?
What Should You Know About Rental Applications?
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on UnsplashYou'll need to submit a rental application before you get an offer to sign a rental agreement, as your landlord will want to make sure you'll be a good tenant.
Hot Tips!
Credit & Background Checks: have all personal information prepared (i.e. social security, etc.).
Rental History: your prospective landlord might ask for references from your previous landlords.
Proof of Income: have your latest pay stubs ready.
Co-Signer/Guarantor: find someone you trust who's willing to do this for you.
Apartment Application Fee: most charge between $30-$50 but may go up to $100.
Agency Fee: be sure to factor this into your budget if you decide to hire a rental agent.
What Utilities Do I Need?
Depending on your lease, you may need to set up some utilities (but ask your landlord for preferred providers and check your lease for more details):
Internet and Cable
This often comes in a subscription package with home phone options.
Water
Your fees will combine flat rates and consumption rates.
Electricity
You may have different rates according to season and time of day.
Natural Gas
This is used to supply heat to homes in many areas.
Security/Alarm System
Ask your landlord for permission to install one if you need it.
Trash Collection
Some municipalities require bin fees or only offer private collection services.
Hot Tips!
Utility varies by state and municipality — in some places, gas/electricity and water are included in a single bill.
You can set up autopayments with banks and utility companies so that you don't miss any payments.
Take Action
Moving into your own place should be something to celebrate, not fear! You can manage costs with smart budgeting.
Rent + Utility Checklist:
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