Cash before signing
Move-In Cost Calculator
Add up security deposits, first and last month rent, fees, utility deposits, moving costs, and first-apartment setup purchases.
No account required.
Use rough numbers first, then refine deposits, utilities, and recurring bills as you learn more about a specific apartment.
Cash before signing
Move-In Cost Calculator
Use take-home pay
Gross salary can make rent look safer than it feels after taxes, insurance, and payroll deductions.
Ask for fee details
Application, admin, amenity, parking, pet, and utility deposits vary by landlord and state.
Keep a buffer
A lease can be technically affordable and still stressful if move-in drains your savings.