Understand the cost of renting.

Rent calculators

Costs of renting

Renting concentrates cost into a predictable monthly payment, plus a burst of cash at move-in. These are the line items that make up the total.

Rent

The base monthly payment set by the lease. It usually rises at renewal, at a rate tied to local market conditions and any rent regulation.

Largest single housing cost

Security deposit

Refundable money held against unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear. Many states cap the amount and set deadlines for its return.

0.5–2 months' rent

Application fees

Non-refundable charges for credit and background screening, charged per applicant and often capped by state law.

$25–$100 per applicant

Utilities

Electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, and internet. Which are included in rent varies by building and changes the effective cost significantly.

$120–$350 / month

Renters insurance

Covers personal property, liability, and temporary living costs. Increasingly required by leases.

$12–$30 / month

Moving costs

Movers or truck rental, packing materials, and time off work. Costs peak in summer and at month-end.

$400–$3,000 per local move

Pet fees

A one-time pet fee, a refundable pet deposit, monthly pet rent, or some combination. Terms vary widely.

$250–$600 upfront, $25–$75 / month

Parking

Assigned parking, garage access, or permits, often billed separately from rent in dense markets.

$0–$400 / month

Other rental fees

Amenity fees, storage, trash valet, administrative charges, and late fees. Read the fee schedule attached to the lease.

Varies by building

Renting guides