First Apartment Costs — Complete 2026 Price Guide
Book Professional Carpet Cleaning
Deep cleaning. Pet stains. Same-day available.
💰 Cost Breakdown
| Item | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security deposit Typically 1-2 months rent; refundable if apartment left in good condition | $800 | $1,500 | $3,000 |
| First month rent Due at lease signing along with security deposit | $800 | $1,500 | $3,000 |
| Application and admin fees Non-refundable fees for credit checks and lease processing | $50 | $150 | $300 |
| Utility deposits and connections Electricity, gas, internet, water setup fees and deposits | $200 | $400 | $800 |
| Renter insurance (annual) Required by most leases; protects personal belongings | $120 | $200 | $350 |
| Basic furniture essentials Bed, couch, table, desk, dresser - varies greatly by quality and new vs used | $1,000 | $3,000 | $8,000 |
| Kitchen essentials Cookware, dishes, utensils, small appliances, food storage | $300 | $600 | $1,200 |
| Cleaning and household supplies Vacuum, cleaning products, laundry supplies, basic tools | $100 | $200 | $400 |
| Moving costs Truck rental, gas, moving supplies, or professional movers | $150 | $400 | $800 |
Security deposit
Typically 1-2 months rent; refundable if apartment left in good condition
First month rent
Due at lease signing along with security deposit
Application and admin fees
Non-refundable fees for credit checks and lease processing
Utility deposits and connections
Electricity, gas, internet, water setup fees and deposits
Renter insurance (annual)
Required by most leases; protects personal belongings
Basic furniture essentials
Bed, couch, table, desk, dresser - varies greatly by quality and new vs used
Kitchen essentials
Cookware, dishes, utensils, small appliances, food storage
Cleaning and household supplies
Vacuum, cleaning products, laundry supplies, basic tools
Moving costs
Truck rental, gas, moving supplies, or professional movers
💡 Money-Saving Tips
Look for apartments that include some utilities to reduce monthly costs
Buy furniture gradually from thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and estate sales
Ask family and friends for hand-me-down household items before buying new
Consider furnished apartments for short-term savings on furniture costs
Shop end-of-season sales for linens, small appliances, and household goods