Housing Costs

Rent

You can expect to pay about $750 to $1100 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, and a $500 to $600 per month for a room in a shared apartment.

Security Deposit

In addition to the first month’s rent, a security deposit, equal to one or two month’s rent, is often required. Your security deposit will be returned after you vacate the apartment, granted you have left it clean and in good condition.

Deposit

A deposit is sometimes requested to hold an apartment until credit checks and/or employment verification can be completed.

Realtors

If you rent through a realtor, they may charge an application fee (generally less than $50).

Payments

Use personal checks, money orders, or traveler’s checks for deposits or payments. A money order can be purchased at banks or an official U.S. Post Office for a small fee.

Utilities

When considering an apartment where the utilities are not included in the rent, you may want to inquire about the cost of a typical winter heating bill, so you can budget for the cost of utilities.