Update: You can download our new Printable Apartment Budgeting Worksheet and use it to estimate your rent and budget for all your expenses.
We get questions all the time about how much rent should you pay based on your income.
For example, here is a recent comment from Alen:
“I have found a apartment for 800 a month with hot water and water included. I make 1139 net pay every two weeks . Do you think this is doable ? Thanks in advance.”
And another one from Jude:
“Hi, my bf and I are thinking about moving into our own place. We found a loft we really like to rent but we are trying to figure out if we are able to make that step. The monthly rent is $1700 w/out utilities . Combined we bring in $3800 before tax. Also we will be splitting rent and utilities. I’ve saved up about $2700 so far. My car is paid off and my parents pay my phone and car insurance. My bf makes his car payments so that will be an extra expense. Will a place like this be affordable to us? I appreciate if you can help us out.”
There are two simple ways to estimate how much rent you can comfortably afford on your income, depending on whether you have a fixed salary or are getting paid variable amounts, based on hours worked at different jobs, or tips earned.
Calculation 1 – Salaried Employee:
Take your annual salary – before taxes or any deductions – and divide that amount by 40. That is the standard measure many landlords use to decide whether they’ll rent to you. This number varies somewhat by market and by landlord. For example, in New York City some large rental companies divide by 45, requiring higher income for the same apartment, while some landlords in other markets may use 35, giving you the apartment with lower income.
In Jude’s example above, the couple makes $3,800*12= $45,600 a year. Divide that by 40 and their target monthly rent is $1,140.
This formula shows that they should not rent a $1,700/month apartment – it is more than $500 over their limit. With utilities, their monthly housing expense would be approaching $1,900, half of their pre-tax income. Even worse, their rent and utilities costs would take more than 60% of their after-tax paychecks.
In addition, Jude and bf should plan to save an amount equal to 3 times their expected monthly rent before the move. This will cover the first month’s rent, one month security deposit and other moving related expenses, and even leave a little money for some basic furniture.
For Jude, a target rent of $1,100- 1,200 would be more reasonable, particularly in light of the bf’s car payments.
Calculation 2 – Hourly Employee:
Take your average monthly take-home pay and multiply by 0.35. With this formula you’ll spend 35% of your cash income on rent. If your pay fluctuates widely, calculate an average monthly take-home over 2-3 months, or if you want to be really safe and conservative, use the lowest month.
In Alen’s example above, $1,139*2 monthly pay periods = $2,278* 0.35 = $797. So, the $800 a month apartment is affordable and leaves enough money to pay utilities, other living expenses and savings.
If you get paid every two weeks, like Alen does, using this formula you’ll be able to save the 2 extra paychecks you get each year. (Check the calendar and you’ll see that there are two months in every year with 3 pay periods.) You can use those extra paychecks to start saving for your own place. (If you get paid on the 15th and the last day of the month, there are no extra pay periods.)
Click here for a longer post on the costs of living on your own.
Hi I live with my daughter but she’s moving. I don’t work I just receive $890. mthly I just could afford about $300.a mth. Where can I go to get help I need 1 bedroom only.
Hi im Kesha. I make 10.50 an hour. I make around 1500 a month. My phone bill is 87. My WiFi is 70. The apartment I’m looking for is 625. Will I be able to afford this and utilities.
I currently live in Texas and collect $1728/month social security disability. Car paid, phone $70, internet $53, utilities and gas between $125-175/month. Never carry balances on my credit cards. I would love to move back to Massachusetts but could I afford to live there? Prefer to rent a house rather than apartment because I have a dog and would like a small yard.
I can afford 500 to 600 and pay deposit not three times the rent pet freindly in carencro or scott or duson
I’m currently looking for a 3 bedroom 2 bath house I just had carpal tunnel surgery and I don’t work I’ve applied for my disability my kids receives SSI. I don’t have a car yet so no worries I do have a fiancee.Can you please help me to find a place
Making $500 a week so 2,000 a month. No car yet so no payments being made in that area. Or phone bill. What range should I be looking into?
Hiiiii, really need some help looking a 1-2 bedroom apartment with one bath, work two jobs.. my first one I get paid every 10th and 25th at around 1,100-1,200 every paid check. My second job I get paid every 15th an 30th ranging around 400 a month. I have a car payment of 326.00, phonebill of 200, car insurance 200. Wondering if I should wait or if I should continue saving and move out !!! Any advice would be great.
I’m a single mother I work 30 hours a week only get paid every two weeks making 10 an hr my car payment is 283 a month my car insurance is 145 my phone bill is 198 a month and groceries I spend 150 sometimes a month just depends. I’m trying to move out from staying with my mother. How much can I afford in rent?
Hi Jasmine,
Use this budgeting worksheet to estimate what you could afford. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
You list $776 in monthly bills before rent and utilities. Your monthly income is somewhere around $1,200. This means that right now you do not have enough cash left over for rent. Try to increase your hours or cut your expenses. Your car is taking more than a third of your income and your phone is also very high. Look for a better phone deal and you may have to trade down your car before you can move.
Good luck!
Hello, I’m looking to rent a 1 bedroom apartment. I make 16 an hour 40 hours a week. Car is paid off. Phone is 70$. Student loan is 73$. Car insurance is 96$, and rent would be 750. Could I afford it?
Hi Iris,
Looks like the formula rent of $750 should be doable for you, but use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to double check. Aim to have at least $350-$400 left over after all your fixed bills for discretionary expenses. Good luck!
I make 33.50. I’m looking to move out on my own. Car paid off. No students loan. Will I be able to life comfortably with a 1000 dollar rent apartment?
Get paid 2 twice a month, working full time.
Im looking at a place that is $730 a month. I make roughly $1500-1600 a month with a car payment of $341, insurance of roughly $160 and a cell phone of $60
Hi Tyler,
Use this worksheet to figure out how much you can afford. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ $730 in rent, with your other bills, is too much. Unfortunately, your car expenses eat into your rent budget. Going though the worksheet you’ll probably realize that a roommate share is your only option at this time. Good luck!
hello i make 16.80 a hour i work full time and im being told by different property management that i don’t make enough. for $750 rent
385 car not and 295 car insurance
49 a week child care
Hi Mani,
A typical landlord should approve you for $750, unless your credit report shows high loan and /or credit card payments. The basic formula calculation to figure your max rent is $16.80*40hrs*52wks = $34,944 divided by 40 = $874 max rent. Even if your hours are 35, you should still qualify for $750.
However, we just saw your second comment. It’s because of your high car expenses you are not getting approved. Use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to estimate how much you could afford with all your other expenses. Good luck!
I make 11 dollars and hour. I get over time a lot , I’m currently renting a one bedroom that is 425 . My and I had a baby girl and it’s getting smaller and smaller. My wife is a stay at home mom for now. So it’s just me taking care of the bills. Please let me know what I can afford for my family.
Hi Anthony,
You did not give us much information about all your current monthly bills, so we have to assume that you don’t have a car and no credit cards or loans. (Use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ for a more accurate estimate.) Assuming that your steady overtime will allow you to build an emergency fund and give some breathing room with bills, you could probably safely go to about $550 in rent. Hopefully, that will get you three a bit more space in your housing market. Good luck.
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Annual Salary (see below 1.) $22,000
Less: Estimated taxes 10% (see below 2.) -$2,200
Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
Estimated annual take-home pay $19,800
Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,650
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent -$550
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$110
Car loan or lease payment
Car Insurance
Gas
Commuting -$125
Groceries/Food -$450
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone & Verizon -$80
Student Loans
Credit Cards
Child care
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,375
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $275
Savings (target 10% of take-home)
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $275
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if public transportation
1.) If you are paid hourly, estimate annual pay by multiplying weekly hours by hourly rate by 50. Example: 40 hrs * $20 *50 = $40,000.
(Yes, we know there are 52 weeks in a year, but many hourly earners do not get paid sick or vacation days, so we use 50 paid weeks.)
2.) % varies by income and filing status; use a tax calculator, for example at https://www.hrblock.com/tax-calculator/.
3.) Health insurance: include here, if not deducted from salary or paid for by parents.
4.) Clothing, vacations, hobbies, entertainment, etc.
My rent is 1700 my brother and my father we split rent in half but my brother no longer stay with me so we had to split his share in half so my father and I can pay the rent in the rest of the bills but I work at a part time job that barely pays anyting so now I have to pay 800 for rent but my checks is barely even $200 how can I go about that
Hi Tiara,
It sounds like you need to add a roommate to split the rent. Good luck!
Hi I’m wondering how much would I need saved up to get apt that with rent and utilities would come up to 1100 when I make 1200 monthly with taxes taken out like if I have a certain amount saved up with that work with month to month rent while working or will it not work out ?
Hi Rosa,
You have to be able to pay your rent and all your expenses out of your current income. If you have to do it out of your savings, what happens when your savings run out? If you start with $10,000 in the bank, you can last a year. In fact, a professional landlord will probably make you prepay a big portion of your first year’s rent because you don’t have enough income to cover both your expenses (food, commuting to work, etc.) and rent out of your income. Keep on saving and work to increase your income, before moving. Good luck!
Hi! I make $14.42/hr which is $30,000 per year. Im single, have no kids, no student loans to pay, my car is already paid off and i dont have to pay car insurance since my parents help me out with that.
All i pay per month is:
cellphone:$71
Credit card: $42/
Music streaming: $10
Gas: $160
Food: $120
Health/dental insurance from pay check:$100
Miscellaneous: i dont go out alot so it varies
***im still living with my parents but need to move to the city to be closer to my job. My job is in nashville tn. How much rent can i afford for a 1 bed/1bath? Thanks!
Hi Amy,
It looks like a target rent on the $600-$700 range would work for you. We increased your food/grocery budget to a more reasonable level and added some money for laundry/dry cleaning, costs that could surprise you when you are on your own. While you are still living with your parents pay off that credit card balance, and after it’s cleaned up get into a habit of paying the full balance monthly. After you move out on your start going out more with friends and live a little! Good luck!
Double check the numbers using this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Annual Salary (see below 1.) $30,000
Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$6,000
Less: Health insurance(26 pay periods * $100) -$2,600
Estimated annual take-home pay $21,400
Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,783
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$624
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$125
Car loan or lease payment
Car Insurance
Gas -$160
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.) See above
Cell Phone -$71
Student Loans
Credit Cards -$42
Child care
Other fixed bills -$10
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,372
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $411
Savings (target 10% of take-home) $178
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $233
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if public transportation
1.) If you are paid hourly, estimate annual pay by multiplying weekly hours by hourly rate by 50. Example: 40 hrs * $20 *50 = $40,000.
(Yes, we know there are 52 weeks in a year, but many hourly earners do not get paid sick or vacation days, so we use 50 paid weeks.)
2.) % varies by income and filing status; use a tax calculator, for example at https://www.hrblock.com/tax-calculator/.
3.) Health insurance: include here, if not deducted from salary or paid for by parents.
4.) Clothing, vacations, hobbies, entertainment, etc.
i make $13 and i am about to rent a 850 apartment. no car
Hi Brisco,
Look at this chart https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/. It shows that if you work a 40 hour week and make $13 an hour your max. rent is $650. If you pay $850 you’ll be paying close to half of your take-home income for rent and you’ll have difficulty affording other living expenses. Luckily, you do not have to pay for a car expenses, so it may be manageable, but only if you learn to live frugally. Learn to cook, to start with, and bring lunch to work. The biggest danger of overpaying for rent is that you fall into the trap of using your credit cards to bridge the gap between income and expenses and build yourself a credit card balance that will be hard to pay off. Good luck!
Hello I’m making 17.00 per hr and I would like to know if I could qualify for a low income rent. Everything is way to expensive
Hi Giuliana,
Use this post to estimate your max rent target. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/ . It looks like you could afford as much as $850, if you work a 40-hour week, but double check your numbers with this worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. Good luck!
Hello, I am making 17.15 an hour totaling about 515 a week after tax and all. I can not seem to find anything decent under 1,100 per month. Will I be able to get approved for an apartment of this cost?
Hi Dany,
It depends what kind of a formula your landlord will use. They will look at your gross annual income as a starting point, about $36,000 ($17.15*40*52) in your case. If they divide by 40, then their max. is $900. Some landlords, in less competitive markets, divide by 35, so they would approve you for $1,000. You can always try to pay extra security deposit that might give the landlord enough incentive to approve you for higher rent. On the other hand, if you overextend on rent, you will be cutting into your discretionary spending. Do you really want to be sitting at home in your nice apartment with an empty pocketbook when all your friends go a concert? Use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to budget all your income and expenses, and aim to have about $100 a week for discretionary spending after all other expenses are covered. Good luck!
According to this the only thing I can afford is a room but I need a 2 bedroom , I need to find a way to make more money without killing myself with overtime
Hey Tiffie! Check out this post to get some ideas on side hustles to help make a little cash on the side. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/01/part-time-work-ideas-to-stretch-your-cash/
Hello
I make $3,208 a month. I have a car payment $460 a month I only have 5 payments left, cell phone $160, hair cuts $60, car insurance $221. Can I afford to move out into a 2 bedroom apartment?
Hello
Can u advise us of we can afford to rent a house we’re looking into. Between my husband and I we bring home roughly $6000/month. My biweekly take home pay is $1900-2100 and his is $1300 biweekly.we are applying for a home that is $1850/month plus utilities in Central WA state.
We have two car payments $330 and $312. $200 student loans, $205 car insurance, $85 month daughters dance lessons, $110 cell phone bill. Roughly $400/ month groceries.
Those are our necessities. Can you please give me some insight on if this is reasonable? Thanks
Hi Irina,
You are making very good money. We hope that you are taking advantage of any savings plan, such as 401K, your employer offers. Also, consider starting a 501 college savings plan for your young dancer, if you have not yet done that.
As to your rent target, it looks like you can comfortably afford that $1,850 and still have plenty left over for savings and discretionary expenses. Double check that your numbers with this worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ A few years of powersaving and you’ll be ready to buy your own place. Good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $6,000
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent -$1,850
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$370
Car loan or lease payments -$642
Car Insurance -$205
Gas -$100
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
Groceries/Food -$400
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$110
Student Loans -$200
Credit Cards
Child care
Other fixed bills – dance lessons -$85
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$4,022
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $1,978
Savings (target 20% of take-home) $1,200
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $778
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if public transportation
1.) If you are paid hourly, estimate annual pay by multiplying weekly hours by hourly rate by 50. Example: 40 hrs * $20 *50 = $40,000.
(Yes, we know there are 52 weeks in a year, but many hourly earners do not get paid sick or vacation days, so we use 50 paid weeks.)
2.) % varies by income and filing status; use a tax calculator, for example at https://www.hrblock.com/tax-calculator/.
3.) Health insurance: include here, if not deducted from salary or paid for by parents.
4.) Clothing, vacations, hobbies, entertainment, etc.
make take home 2000 a month. Have a car. How much rent can I afford
Hi Debra,
Use this worksheet to estimate https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
The basic formula is 35% of your monthly after tax take-home pay. Good luck!
Hello. My husband makes about 640-700$ a week. Our rent is 800. Water is 40, electric bill is about 120$ I don’t work and we have a 3 yr old.
Is rent too much?? What can we afford?
***I pay 100 for student loans, 100 for my phone, and about 40 combined for various subscription services.
Hey! I make 65k annually, pre-tax and I live in New York. Is it reasonable for me to afford a studio for $1500?
Hi Devin,
Yes, it looks like you can afford a $1,500 studio, if you can find one and as long as you don’t have a car. (You don’t need a car in NYC. Unlimited 30-day Metrocard is $121.) However, for $1,500 a month you are probably looking at a roommate share in pretty nice place or a pretty bad 5th floor walk-up studio in an iffy neighborhood. Here’s an article from NYTimes you should read. https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/01/realestate/guide-getting-first-apartment.html? Good luck!
I left out that my phone bill is 45 dollars a month
I make 400+ a week. 348 car loan, 130 car insurance, rent would be 545 a month, gas about 30 dollars a week plus utilities only trash is included. Im pretty frugal when it comes to food. Will I be able to afford everything.
Hi Tiffany,
With your high car expenses you are not in a position to get an apartment at this time. See below. Double check the numbers, but it seems that even a roommate share is not doable. Try to boost your income, or trade in that car for a much cheater transportation alternative. Good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,600
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent -$545
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$109
Car loan or lease payment -$348
Car Insurance -$130
Gas -$120
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$45
Student Loans
Credit Cards
Child care
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,637
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$37
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if public transportation
1.) If you are paid hourly, estimate annual pay by multiplying weekly hours by hourly rate by 50. Example: 40 hrs * $20 *50 = $40,000.
(Yes, we know there are 52 weeks in a year, but many hourly earners do not get paid sick or vacation days, so we use 50 paid weeks.)
2.) % varies by income and filing status; use a tax calculator, for example at https://www.hrblock.com/tax-calculator/.
3.) Health insurance: include here, if not deducted from salary or paid for by parents.
4.) Clothing, vacations, hobbies, entertainment, etc.
Hey,
I make $800 a week and im looking at renting a place for $200 a week. My monthly payments include $80 phone bill and $100 loan payments on a laptop.
Cheers.
Hi Isaac,
Looks like you should be fine, but double check your numbers with this budgeting worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/Good luck!
Hello, my name is Brandon my gf and I are looking to move in together I currently bring in $530 a week(after taxes) but have opportunities for overtime which is time and a half and an extra $130. After bills I take home roughly 1740/monthly and after bills she brings in 1850. we are looking to rent a place for $1750 is this affordable or what should we look for. just fyi we reside in Miami fl,
Hello, my name is nick I make about 400+ a week but when winter time comes I make 300-200, I’m consider a 1099 meaning the company I work for doesn’t take out tax’s so I would have to pay tax’s at the end of the year. I do pay for my gas and everything else that comes with owning a car except car insurance or my phone bill my dad and I split the cost. I plan on going to college soon On my own dime, and Having a roommate isn’t ideal. Any advice on what I can afford and still have money to buy food clothes etc….
Hi Nick,
Being a 1099 worker is a real tax trap at the end of the year. Estimate 20% of each paycheck for social security (FICA) and income taxes. Having a roommate may not be ideal, but depending on where you live, you probably cannot afford your own place until you make more. Use this worksheet to estimate a budget. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Good luck!
Hi my name is kyle I make roughly $700 every two weeks with a $370 car note and it roughly $100 insurance and I have a dog and his food is roughly around $20 a bag I feel like I would be okay with the roommates but at very much rather be by myself how would I manage this thank you
Hi Kyle,
As long as 35% + of your income goes to pay for car expenses, you’ll be really hard pressed to afford anything but a very inexpensive roommate share. Your rent budget is going to car payments.
Use this budgeting worksheet to figure out what you could do. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Good luck!
My problem is I make 230 a week, sometimes 350 to 420 if its busy and can’t find an apartment for 100 a month. I wanna move out of my parents house but doesn’t look like its possible at the moment.
Hi my name is Jevon. I am making $15.50 40 hours a week.paid weekly. I pay 90 in child support a week. Phone bill is 89 a month, insurance is 100 a month.i am trying to see what a affordable range on an apartment. I haven’t did the the food, entertainment,etc. Yet.help please.
Hi Jevon,
We did a rough budget with the limited information (car loan payment??) you gave and it looks like you should be targeting rent in the $600. That would still leave you with about $100 a week for discretionary expenses, such as clothing, entertainment and taking your little one to the movies every now and then. Print out this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and double check the numbers. Good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Annual Salary (see below 1.) $31,000
Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$6,200
Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
Estimated annual take-home pay $24,800
Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,067
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent -$600
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$120
Car loan or lease payment
Car Insurance -$100
Gas -$50
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$89
Student Loans
Credit Cards
Child care/support -$360
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,659
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $408
Savings (target 10% of take-home)
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if public transportation
1.) If you are paid hourly, estimate annual pay by multiplying weekly hours by hourly rate by 50. Example: 40 hrs * $20 *50 = $40,000.
(Yes, we know there are 52 weeks in a year, but many hourly earners do not get paid sick or vacation days, so we use 50 paid weeks.)
2.) % varies by income and filing status; use tax calculator at https://www.totaltaxinsights.org/Calculator for better estimate.
3.) Health insurance: include here, if not deducted from salary or paid for by parents.
4.) Clothing, vacations, hobbies, entertainment, etc.
Hi,
I make $29,310 per year but my job was underpaying since I’ve been here they’re not fixing the issue. i want to rent an apartment that is $700 per month with all utilities included. i have a $172 monthly childcare expense, a $182.60 car payment and $233.88 car insurance payment a $35 monthly credit car bill and a monthly $9 credit card bill. I will be promoted next month and my annual gross will be 31,891. Right now my monthly income is 2180 before taxes and my net income is 750 bi weekly. Can i afford this apartment
Hi Imani,
Even if we estimate that your monthly take-home increases from $1,500 to $1,700, with the new tax law and pay increase, you still cannot afford $700 rent with your expenses. If fact, if we estimate typical expenses for other essentials, you’ll end with a monthly shortfall of close to $300. Use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to estimate your budget in more detail. Maybe you’ll find some savings that make it work. Good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Monthly take-home pay Est. $1,700
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent -$700
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) $0
Car loan or lease payment -$183
Car Insurance -$234
Gas -$50
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
Groceries/Food -$450
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$80
Student Loans
Credit Cards -$44
Child care -$172
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,973
SHORTFALL before Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$273
hello, i make 1145 every 2 weeks after taxes with an additional 600 to 800 a month on commission. i would like to know what would be my max in rent to seek? my expenses are 230 a month on car note, 177 on car insurance, 156 on cellphone , 130 on life insurance and around 300 on credit cards.
Hi Victor,
It looks like you could go as high as $900 a month, although that would leave you with no extra money for savings. We estimated your income with the lower commission amount, so you could have a little room for savings in the high commission months. Assuming that your participate in your company’s 401K plan, after you have built an emergency fund of at least 3 months of expenses, put all extra savings to bring down your credit card balance. Double check your numbers with this worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Monthly take-home pay $2,890
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$900
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$180
Car loan or lease payment -$230
Car Insurance -$177
Gas -$50
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) $0
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$156
Student Loans $0
Credit Cards -$300
Child care
Other fixed bills -$130
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,463
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $427
Savings (target 10% of take-home)
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $427
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if public transportation
1.) If you are paid hourly, estimate annual pay by multiplying weekly hours by hourly rate by 50. Example: 40 hrs * $20 *50 = $40,000.
(Yes, we know there are 52 weeks in a year, but many hourly earners do not get paid sick or vacation days, so we use 50 paid weeks.)
2.) % varies by income and filing status; use tax calculator at https://www.totaltaxinsights.org/Calculator for better estimate.
3.) Health insurance: include here, if not deducted from salary or paid for by parents.
4.) Clothing, vacations, hobbies, entertainment, etc.
Hi I make 15/hr and every paycheck (biweekly) I make is about $930-980. I will be living with my fiance who makes about $680-700 biweekly. His car payment is about 270 and mine is 200. I pay 74 in car insurance. we pay 140 for our phone bill, and I pay 100 on my student loans. do you think we would be able to afford an apartment around $600-700?
Hi Emily,
If the numbers you gave include all your fixed bills (for example, fiance pays no car insurance?), then you could afford that $700 rent and still have room in your budget for savings. See below. However, you need to double check all your numbers using this printable worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. Good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Monthly take-home pay ($930+$680)*2 $3,220
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent Est. -$700
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$140
Car loan or lease payment -$470
Car Insurance Fiance’s insurance missing -$74
Gas -$100
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
Groceries/Food -$450
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$140
Student Loans -$100
Credit Cards
Child care
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,234
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $986
Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$322
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $664
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if public transportation
1.) If you are paid hourly, estimate annual pay by multiplying weekly hours by hourly rate by 50. Example: 40 hrs * $20 *50 = $40,000.
(Yes, we know there are 52 weeks in a year, but many hourly earners do not get paid sick or vacation days, so we use 50 paid weeks.)
2.) % varies by income and filing status; use tax calculator at https://www.totaltaxinsights.org/Calculator for better estimate.
3.) Health insurance: include here, if not deducted from salary or paid for by parents.
4.) Clothing, vacations, hobbies, entertainment, etc.
Hi I make $11.00/hour averaging 80 hours and get paid bi-weekly. I looked at 2 apartments one for 490 and the other for 500. I have car note for $250 phone bill for $85 utilities for $200 that I’ve calculated car insurance $160. Would i be able to afford the rent?
Hi Shay,
Unfortunately, your current expenses are so high relative to your income that you don’t have enough room in your budget for rent. See below. Use this planning worksheet to make a more detailed estimate, with actual expenses. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Annual Salary (see below 1.) $22,000
Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$3,300
Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
Estimated annual take-home pay $18,700
Monthly take-home pay $1,558
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$500
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$200
Car loan or lease payment -$250
Car Insurance -$160
Gas -$50
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) $0
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$85
Student Loans $0
Credit Cards
Child care
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,585
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$27
Savings (target 10% of take-home)
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car -$27
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if public transportation
1.) If you are paid hourly, estimate annual pay by multiplying weekly hours by hourly rate by 50. Example: 40 hrs * $20 *50 = $40,000.
(Yes, we know there are 52 weeks in a year, but many hourly earners do not get paid sick or vacation days, so we use 50 paid weeks.)
2.) % varies by income and filing status; use tax calculator at https://www.totaltaxinsights.org/Calculator for better estimate.
3.) Health insurance: include here, if not deducted from salary or paid for by parents.
4.) Clothing, vacations, hobbies, entertainment, etc.
My Gf and I make together about $3k a month. Can we Afford a $680 apartment?
Hi Hero,
According to our formula your max rent target at 35% of your take-home of $3,000 is $1,050, so $680 should be fine.
However, we don’t know what other bills your may have. Use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to double-check your numbers in detail. Good luck!
Our combined income is 2,260.00 monthly can we afford a 800 monthly?
Hi Kalia,
Assuming $2,260 is after your take-home, our max. rent formula says that most you could afford is 35% of that amount, or $791. However, that is just the first step, you still need to test if that number works with all your other obligations. Use this budgeting worksheet to double-check you numbers. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Good luck!
I got neither of those categories I get paid based on performance and half of it is out of my control. I’ve earned as little as 200 in a week to as much as 1200 in a week. Can I afford a 500-700 apartment?
Hi Felipe,
You need to estimate your average income over time, at least 3 months. Start by pulling together your weekly paychecks for the last 3 months, drop the largest and smallest amount and average the rest. Multiply this weekly average by 4 to get a monthly average (you’ll have 4 months with a fifth paycheck, but try to save those) and multiply that monthly number 0.35 in order to get your maximum rent target. Then double check the number by using our printable budgeting worksheet.https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
If your monthly average is about $2,000, then you could possibly afford $700 in rent, if you don’t have many other fixed expenses (car loans, student loans, etc.).
Good luck!
Hello me and my boyfriend want to move to an apartment, he makes 11 an hour and I make 9 an hour, we both get paid biweekly and we both work closely to 80 hours in 2 weeks, combined we make 1,400$ can we afford 800$ apartment?
Hi Ashley,
The answer is no, you cannot afford the $800 rent if it takes almost 60% of your take-home income. Your affordable rent target is $400-$500 a month. Use this budgeting worksheet to estimate what is affordable. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Good luck!
Hi, my boyfriend and I are planning on moving out together. We are both going to university and both making 12$ the hour. How much rent are we able to afford if we are splitting the costs? And how many hours would we need to work in order to afford it? I don’t pay any car insurance at the moment or for my phone bill.
Hi Soyy,
Use this two step budgeting process:
1.) Find your max. rent target at various weekly hours in this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/ . For example, if you each work 20 hours a week at $12, you can each pay max. $300 a month in rent.
2.) Print this budgeting worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and put in it your target rent and all your other must-pay bills. The example in the post shows what they may be. Then see how much money you’ll have left each month. Test it out at various rent assumption to find out the level of hours that work best. Because you are both students and have to limit hours worked, you probably cannot save any money, but don’t overextend on your rent so much that you have no money for some fun and activities outside work and studying.
Good luck!
Hi I just got a new job making 10.28 an hour full time 40 hours with some overtime. I was looking at an apartment with a rent of 550. I don’t have any debt or car insurance to pay. Do you think I’ll be able to afford this and still be able to go out once a month and save for a new car
Hi Ashley,
Use this two step budgeting process:
1.) Find your max. rent target in this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/ . The chart shows that at $10 an hour with 40 hours a week, $500 a month is your max. rent.
2.) Print this budgeting worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and put in it your target rent and all your other must-pay bills. The example in the post shows what they may be. Then see how much money you’ll have left each month. Ideally, you’ll have enough to put 10% into savings and still have about $100 a week for discretionary expenses.
Good luck!
Hi I’m a single parent of a beautiful 2 yr old, monthly I’m taking home about $1600. Could I️ afford to rent at $900?
Hi Babymomma,
The simple answer is no. Print out this budgeting worksheet and be realistic about what you could afford and still pay all your other living expenses. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Good luck!
Hi, my name is Dy’Mon I just started a new job getting paid training $10 an hour I work 40 hours per week I get paid bi weekly after 30 days of training I get paid $12 an hour I work at a call center job and depending on how much I want to bring home I can make up to $20 an hour I do have a car payment that’s 294.97 I have car insurance that $254.67 I have a $130.00 phone bill and personal loan of $75 I have to pay back as of right now I’m aiming to move out mid march I didn’t fail for taxes last year I’m a working student so I was using my taxes from last year & this year and also money I’m getting from taxes for being in school towards money for my apartment but I’m aiming to afford something in the$750 range beings though if I don’t qualify for a certain amount I can always increase my wage depending on billable I just need help Lol… I’m a little lost.
Hi Dy’Mon,
Right now you are not in a position to move out at $12/hr 40 hour week. If you get to $20 on a steady 40 hour basis, then you could probably qualify for $750 a month rent, but not before. Right now, your car/phone/loan will take such a big share of your take-home income that there won’t be enough left over for rent, even for a really cheap roommate share. Stay where you are for now, bring your pay up and pay off that loan, before you move out. Good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Annual Salary (see below 1.) $24,000
Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$4,800
Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
Estimated annual take-home pay $19,200
Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,600
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent 35% of take-home -$560
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$112
Car loan or lease payment -$295
Car Insurance -$255
Gas -$50
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) $0
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$130
Loans -$75
Credit Cards
Child care
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,817
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$217
Savings (target 10% of take-home)
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if public transportation
1.) If you are paid hourly, estimate annual pay by multiplying weekly hours by hourly rate by 50. Example: 40 hrs * $20 *50 = $40,000.
(Yes, we know there are 52 weeks in a year, but many hourly earners do not get paid sick or vacation days, so we use 50 paid weeks.)
2.) % varies by income and filing status; use tax calculator at https://www.totaltaxinsights.org/Calculator for better estimate.
3.) Health insurance: include here, if not deducted from salary or paid for by parents.
4.) Clothing, vacations, hobbies, entertainment, etc.
Ok so i just got a job and i work 9-6 Monday through Friday and make $9.50 an hr how much rent could i afford
Hi Adreona,
First, check out this post to find out your formula max. rent.
https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/
Then print out this worksheet and input all your actual income and expenses, in order to see if that rent is affordable to you.
https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Good luck!
Hi me and my girlfriend are looking for an apartment together. We both just graduated and have started our full time jobs. We will be bringing in together roughly $5100 a month after taxes. We were looking at apartments with rent at about $1600 per month. Do you think this is attainable?
Hi Mike,
Using the most basic formula for max. rent or 35% of your take-home, you should be able to afford up to $1,785 a month. Use this detailed worksheet to double check. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
You have a very nice combined income so you should be able to afford to save at least 10% of your take-home each month. In addition, if your employers offer 401K plans, make sure you save at least enough to get the match.
Good luck!
I make $1800 a month, paid bi-weekly. I do not have a car not just insurance that is $145 a month. My cellphone bill is $60, and I have no other current debts. Could I afford a place around $725 or less a month?
Hi Kameron,
You probably could pay that much, but it would not leave much room for savings. You would be safer in $630 range, or 35% of your take-home. See below, but double check you expense with our printable worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,800
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent (35% of take-home) -$630
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$126
Car loan or lease payment $0
Car Insurance -$145
Gas -$50
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$60
Student Loans $0
Credit Cards
Child care
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,351
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $449
Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$180
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $269
1.) If you are paid hourly, estimate annual pay by multiplying weekly hours by hourly rate by 50. Example: 40 hrs * $20 *50 = $40,000.
(Yes, we know there are 52 weeks in a year, but many hourly earners do not get paid sick or vacation days, so we use 50 paid weeks.)
2.) % varies by income and filing status; use tax calculator at https://www.totaltaxinsights.org/Calculator for better estimate.
3.) Health insurance: include here, if not deducted from salary or paid for by parents.
4.) Clothing, vacations, hobbies, entertainment, etc.
Hello there! Pretty soon I will be getting a new job. I will start off making $15 an hr for 40 hrs a week and I’m assuming that I get paid bi weekly. I am currently looking at apartments and I have one in mind. Rent monthly is $685. Would I make enough to afford it?
Hi Jordan,
According to our formulas in this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/ you max. affordable rent is $750, if you don’t have unusually high expenses.
Double check our number by using this budgeting worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Good luck!
Hi, I bring home $3400 home after tax and my retirement contributions. Would it be advisable to rent a 1bed 1 bath at $1681 a month before utilities?
Hi md88maddog,
You will be spending, including utilities, almost half of your take-home on rent and over half with utilities. It is too much according to Hud guidelines that put the upper affordable rent limit at 30% of your pre-tax income and our guidelines that set the max at 35% of your take-home. However, without knowing your other expenses we cannot really judge. Use the printable worksheet in this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to estimate how much money you’ll have left after your essential expenses and bills.
Ideally, you’ll have enough left over to put at least 10% of your take-home into savings and still have about $100 a week to cover all your discretionary expenses. Good luck!
My wife and I together make $17 an hour. We bring in $1750 a month together. Rent is high where we live and finding a house for cheap can be difficult. Can we afford a house that is $795 a month, nothing included? We have $3,000 in our checking currently. Down deposit is $600 and first months rent. Also have to turn on water in this area and electric. The highest we’ve rented before was $675 with water included and are a little scared to go this high in budget.
– Cell phone is paid every 3 months, $260
– Gas is $55 a month (will live 10 mins from work)
– Internet $55 a month
– food bought is all used with tip money
– Car payment $0
– Insurance $192 a month
– (passed experience with water bill) $35
– (passed experience with electric bill) $110
Can we do it? and how do you think we would be living? Tight budget?
Hi Brandon,
Looks like you could squeeze by with no room for additional savings, but use our budgeting worksheet to double check. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ We’d like to see at least $600 a month for a couple after essential expenses and you only have $400, but you do have a little cushion in that tip money that pays for food/groceries. Let us know how it turns out and good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Monthly take-home pay $1,750
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent Est. -$795
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$159
Car loan or lease payment
Car Insurance -$192
Gas -$55
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
Groceries/Food $0
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$87
Student Loans
Credit Cards
Child care share Est. $0
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,348
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $402
Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $402
I make 15.10 an hr full time, I pay my car 252 every two weeks plus insurance $100, phone bill $60 , phone $70 / every 2 weeks , I want an apt $688 rent Can I afford it ?
Hi Sofy,
It looks to us that $688 is too high rent for you, leaving you over $130 in the hole after you pay all the fixed monthly essentials. See below. But please double check the math by using our printable budgeting worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ It is unclear what you mean with your car payment “$252 every two weeks” and phone “$70/2 weeks”. We calculated the monthly amounts by doubling, but that may not be correct. In any case, you can do your own calculations by using the above worksheet. If those are actually monthly amounts, then you’d have $190 a month left after fixed bills, still too low but if you know how to live frugally, cook at home and cut down on utilities, you might be able to squeeze by. Try to put a little something into savings, too. Rent in the $500-600 range would be safer. Good luck!
First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
Your Budget
Annual Salary Est. (see below 1.) $30,200
Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$7,550
Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
Estimated annual take-home pay $22,650
Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,888
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent -$688
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$138
Car loan or lease payment $252*2 -$504
Car Insurance -$100
Gas -$50
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.)
Cell Phone -$60
Student Loans
Credit Cards
Child care
Other fixed bills phone $70*2 -$140
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,020
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$132
Hi my name is angel I work full time 40+ hrs and make 10 a hrs everyweek also i work a 2nd job 12.00 hrs part time 8-16 hrs every 2 week im looking at a apartment for 410-500 but i pay 352.12 for school on the 15th plus 30.00 for phone bill. Will i be able to afford to move next month
hi this is angel also my utilites are included in these apartment
Hi Angel,
According to our max. rent chart https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/ you should be able to manage up to $500 in rent on your full time job income. However, you need to double check by printing out our apartment budgeting worksheet and adding to it all your expenses. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
With your second job as a safety, you should be OK even with your school payment, unless you also have car loan and insurance payments.
Good luck!
I make 14.90 I bring home at least between 400 and 430 bar is 281 insurance is 220 and phone is 140 can I afford 775 a month nothing included.
Hi Jamison,
We are assuming that the $282 is for a car, not bar. Because if it is your bar tab, you have bigger problems to deal with than rent!
Use this printable budgeting worksheet to estimate how much rent you can afford. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
If you take home about $1,600-$1,700 a month, you cannot afford $775 rent plus maybe another $125-$150 in utilities and all you other expenses. Like many of our readers, your car expenses are so high that there is not enough left over for rent. Maybe you can find an inexpensive roommate share, but use the budget worksheet to estimate what your max rent is. Good luck!
Hi I work 40 hrs a week. 13$ per hour and I get paid every other week. Would I qualify for a 500-600$ low income apartment. I have no car single
Hi Ana,
Check out this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/
It looks like a typical landlord would approve for up to $650 rent, depending on your credit score and other fixed bills.
Good luck!
Hi i make 8.10 i get paid weekly i work about 36 hours but i can seem to find an apartment of i dont make enough
Hi Gennie,
We sympathize with you, the rental market is tough to crack if you are just starting out and earning just above minimum wage. According to our chart https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/ your max. affordable rent is in the $350 range a month and there are few places where that will get you your apartment. Fortunately, it may be enough for a roommate share. Hang in there and good luck!
Hi I make 11.75 and get 40 hours a week. Will I be able to afford a 640.00 apartment?
Hi Javonte,
It looks a little too high for your income but it also depends on what your other expenses are. Use our printable budgeting worksheet (link below) to make a detailed estimate of your income and expenses and see if that rent leaves you enough money to cover all your expenses and, hopefully, a little bit to savings. Good luck!
https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Hi there. I bring home about $2000 bi-weekly and have no car. I currently pay about $1000 for rent. I’m thinking of moving to a nicer place that runs $1700 monthly. I do expect to get a raise in the next 3 months to $2700 bi-weekly. Student loan payments are $100 and will be paid off in 6 months.
Hi Lauren,
With your high income and low fixed expenses plus that upcoming big raise, you could comfortable carry that $1,700 rent. Use our printable budgeting worksheet to double check your exact numbers. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
The more important question is what are your longer term plans. Do you want to remain a renter or are you planning to buy your own place at some point. With your relatively high income, you get some very nice tax deductions from owning a place and the after tax cost is often less than your rent for a nicer place. But, to get there you need to have savings to cover the down payment. Living below your means and turbo-charging savings is an option worth considering. (Caveat: Wait to buy until the tax reform being talked about gets closer so you know whether these deduction remain.) Good luck!
I make roughly around 1200 bi weekly . Looking intI an apartment with a monthly rate of 950 in riverside california. Other utilities not included. Car is paid off. I have a newborn to take care of.
Hi Randy,
Congratulations on the new baby. It would be nice if you could afford that $950 apartment, but it seems unlikely to us assuming that you have to also pay for all the other typical living expenses plus all the baby’s expenses. Those diapers are not cheap!
Use this printable worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and drop in your real expenses. It will tell you how much rent you can afford and still cover all your other expenses. Good luck!
Hello! I want to live in Atlanta. I bring in $2020/month after taxes. My phone bill is $100/month. Car insurance is $78/month. Car note is $233/month and no student loans or credit card payments. Can I afford rent for $850?
Hi Halie,
You can make your own budget by using this printable worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. We did a rough plan below and it looks like at $850 rent it’s too tight and does not leave enough for discretionary expenses and savings. If you can find something in the $700 range you would be much better off. Double check the numbers. Good luck!
Monthly take-home pay $2,020
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$850
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$170
Car loan or lease payment -$233
Car Insurance -$78
Gas -$50
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) $0
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.) $0
Cell Phone -$100
Student Loans
Credit Cards $0
Child care
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,821
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $199
Savings (target 10% of take-home)
One more point, car insurance for no fault is 135 a year. For full coverage its 600 a year. I qualify for food stamps and because im disabled i get Puerto rico government health care. I think having all my bills paid and having 150.00 at the end of the month for a old guy like me is doable. Im single also.
Hi Knight,
It is hard for us to estimate if $150 is doable in Puerto Rico, but if that is after housing, food and transportation it may be OK. Assuming that you do not start dating some high-maintenance lady out there! Good luck!
Lol. Im going to live a very modest life, high maintenance women???? Lol. I dont think so. Thank you for your input.
Im moving to Puerto rico, I found a house for 350.00 a month. Im on SSD and get 850.00 a month my total bills come out to 700.00 a month that includes the rent. I will have gov health insurance and food assistance. Does that sound do reasonable?? I think so
Hey I bring home a month $1650. Car paid off insurance $145 , phone bill $50 & loans a month $100. Can I afford a $730 rent
Hi Ashley,
Even if you go on a full Ramen diet, $730 is too much. Your target rent should be in the $500 range.
Print out the budgeting worksheet and play with your rent levels to find the affordable range. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Good luck!
Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,650
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$730
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$100
Car loan or lease payment $0
Car Insurance insurance -$145
Gas -$50
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.) $0
Cell Phone -$50
Student Loans -$100
Credit Cards
Child care
Other fixed bills
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,515
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $135
Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $135
Hi, I have searched tons of sites on what is and isnt affordable. So currently I bring home about 1428 monthly, but I live in Illinois and things are much more cost efficient than in NYC. I was considering an apartment for 535.00 with water, sewer, and trash included. This leaves me responsible for electric, wifi, and my $56.00 phone bill. I do not have a car payment. I utilize public transportation for $80.00 a month. Can I afford this apartment? I gross 1820.00 a month. Please help.
Also can you help me with a budget? I so need Help!!!!!!!
Hi Ashlee,
Print out our new budgeting worksheet and do your own, more accurate calculations. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Based on the numbers you gave, it looks like you could manage that $535 rent, but it does not leave any room for savings, unless you are really frugal and cook at home and don’t have expensive entertainment or clothing tastes. Let us know if the budgeting worksheet is helpful. Good luck!
Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,428
Monthly Essential Living Expenses
Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$535
Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$107
Car loan or lease payment $0
Car Insurance $0
Gas $0
Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$78
Groceries/Food -$300
Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
Health Insurance (See below 3.) $0
Cell Phone -$56
Student Loans $0
Credit Cards
Child care
Other fixed bills $0
Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,116
Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $312
Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
Cash left for Discretionary Spending, $312
Hi! So together the hubby and I make $3000 a month now, after taxes (there will be no fluctuation in this). No car payments (both paid off), $200 for car insurance, $120 combined phone bill, no debt, both excellent credit. We’ve saved up nearly 90k. Should we continue renting or start looking to buy?
When I put in our annual income on a mortgage calculator though, it says we cant afford much (where we live). I know it’s recommended we only spend $900 a month on rent/mortgage. But..we could get a nice house if we paid $1300 a month total on mortgage. Could we live on $1700 a month after rent? Or just stick to renting? I’m in my mid 20’s, the hubby in early 30’s and we would still want to do fun things in our city occasionally.
I’m trying to afford a 700 dollar apartment and I make about 2000 before taxes
Hi Beau,
At your pre-tax income level your maximum rent formula is $2,000* 12 or $24,000 annually, divided by 40 = $600. If you have any other fixed bills – car loan, credit cards, insurance, etc. – it will be very tight at $700. Good luck!
Hi Beau,
Use this printable budgeting worksheet to estimate what you can afford. Good luck!
https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Hi, I make about $35000 a year, can I afford a $1200 monthly mortgage? Thank you!
Hi Sonia,
The simple answer is no, you cannot afford $1,200 rent. (If you actually mean mortgage, you need to get that answer from your bank.) $35,000 divided by 40 is $875. That’s your max. affordable rent. Good luck!
Hi Sonia,
Use this printable budgeting worksheet to estimate what you can afford. Good luck!
https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
Hi there, i am looking for a new living situation, hopefully a studio or one bedroom. This is my first time venturing off and taking care of my own expenses. I’m a full time nanny in oakland making 900 a week (after tax).
I am trying to save for a car right now and at the same time trying to see how much I can spend on rent.
At the moment I am renting a room for $750.
Phone bill is 60 per month.
How much can I afford on rent and how much should I be able to put aside for my car?
I also have extra weekly expense of $60 for brother who needs help with his medical bills.
Thanks so much for your help !!
Hi I make roughly 500 a week and trying to afford a 1 bedroom 1 bathroom apartment for 740 a month
Cable and bge not included in rent. I also have a car payment of 150 every two weeks.
Hello I make roughly $4000 a month before taxes but that’s with commission. Without commission it looks more like $1920 a month. If my rent is $667, plus a $200 car payment and other living expenses will I be okay
Hi Bobby,
If your commissions are pretty steady, then you probably take home about $3,000 after taxes each month. At our basic formula for max. rent of 35% of your take home, your number is $1,050. That $667 place seems to well within your means and will leave plenty of room for expenses and starting an emergency savings fund. Good luck!
Is $1300 for rent each month ok? If I’m being home 1300 each two weeks?
Hi Dennis,
So you plan to pay half of your take-home in rent. That will make you the definition of rent-poor. After you pay your utilities, commuting to work, food and other necessities of living, you’ll have very little left for entertainment, clothing or taking your SO out, not to mention for putting a little something into savings. Anything over $900 or so is too high rent on your income. Good luck!
Looking for a 2 bed/1-2 bath apartment for a roommate and I for college. I will have a student loan but not sure how much I need yet. Currently I work part-time 25-30 hours/week and make anywhere from $800-$1,000/month after taxes with a salaried job. The rent at the apartment that we’re looking at is $625 max with a $350 security deposit. My roommate and I will be splitting rent and deposit. We’re supposed to have a steady monthly income of 3 times equal/greater than the rent, but I’m not exactly sure what that means. Will we be able to afford the apartment?
I’m looking to move in the next few months in a one BD/one BR apartment. The rent is 750 monthly with ultitiles included. I make 640 weekly but I pay 300 for my car note/170 for insurance and a min. of $100 for my credit card plus $75 for my cell phone. Would I be able to stay afloat for rent?
Hi Rachel,
If the $640 a week is after taxes, you can afford $750, and even have enough left over after your bills to save 10%+ of your income. If the pay is pre-tax, then you would be looking at rent in the $500 range. Good luck!
Rachel’s Budget:
Per month take-home est. $2,560
Max. rent -$750
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) $0
Car payments -$300
Car insurance -$170
Gas est. -$50
or Commuting est. $0
Groceries/food est. -$300
Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
Cell phone -$75
Credit Cards -$100
Health Insurance $0
Student Loans $0
Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$256
Cash left for all other expenses/Month $519
Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
I know i’m one of many to ask, but I need the help and the reality check lol.
I’m a single female searching for an apartment. I make $27,560 annually and I pay $407 for my car currently, but I am looking to refinance by the end of the year. I don’t pay for my cell phone bill, or my car insurance, and the apartment i am looking at only makes me pay electricity/cable (no water, sewage, trash, etc.) in addition to the 1170 rent. And laundry is included in the unit. Also, I pay $21 for health insurance. Could I afford the apartment? Anything below that range in my area isn’t great :/
Hi Lena,
We are sorry to say but you cannot afford $1,170 rent, you’d end up with almost $400 shortfall. A roommate share in the $500 range would be more in your price range. That car payment is taking too big a hunk of your income. Good luck!
Lena’s Budget:
Salary $27,560
Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($6,890)
After tax take-home $20,670
Per month take-home est. $1,723
Max. rent -$1,170
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (10% of rent) -$117
Car payments -$407
Car insurance $0
Gas est. -$50
or Commuting est. $0
Groceries/food est. -$300
Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
Cell phone $0
Credit Cards $0
Health Insurance -$21
Student Loans $0
Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
Cash left for all other expenses/Month -$383
Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
Hi, my fiancé brings home 804 a week. I’m wondering what we can afford. We also have car insurance, cell phone bill, 2 dogs and a toddler!
Hi Jen,
Looks like you could manage rent in the $1,100 range and still be able to save about 10% of your take home. Double check the expenses and make sure no big fixed bills are missing (credit cards? health insurance? car loan?). Good luck!
Jen’s Budget:
Cash take-home -combined $3,216
Rent -$1,126
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$225
Car payments $0
Car insurance payments -$150
Gas est. ($50 each) -$100
or Commuting $0
Groceries/food est. for 3 -$600
Laundry/dry cleaning est. for 3 -$80
Cell phone est. for 2 -$160
Credit Cards $0
Student Loan $0
Target savings 10% of take-home -$322
Amount left for discretionary expenses $454
*Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
Hi, me and a friend will be looking to move into a 3 bed2 bath house and the rent will be around 1200 a month. We would both be bringing in around 1300 a month.
Hi Bruce,
Realistically, you two cannot afford that house and you need to get a third roommate. Luckily, it’s a 3BR. Good luck!
Bruce’s Budget:
Cash take-home -combined $2,600
Rent -$1,200
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$240
Car payments $0
Car insurance payments $0
Gas est. ($50 each) $0
or Commuting $125 each -$250
Groceries/food est. for 2 -$450
Laundry/dry cleaning est. for 2 -$60
Cell phone est. for 2 -$160
Credit Cards $0
Student Loan $0
Target savings 10% of take-home $0
Amount left for discretionary expenses for 2 $240
*Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
I’m a single male looking for an apartment. I bring in about $2750 a month. My car note is $228, insurance $88, phone $80. How much would a $1100 apartment leave me with for myself, or better yet, what is the most I can spend on an apartment?
Hi Vin,
Assuming that the $2,750 is after taxes and deductions, you can afford that $1,100 apartment and have enough money even to save about 10% of your take-home. Of course, if you can get a great place for less, more to your savings! Good luck!
Vin’s Budget:
Per month take-home est. $2,750
Max. rent -$1,100
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$220
Car payments -$228
Car insurance -$88
Gas est. -$50
or Commuting est. $0
Groceries/food est. -$300
Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
Cell phone -$80
Credit Cards $0
Health Insurance $0
Student Loans $0
Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$275
Cash left for all other expenses/Month $369
Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
Hi! I was looking at apartments and make 930 every 2 two weeks. Car is paid off, only thing I really pay that’s big is school loans. Which is 150 a month. What kind of rent do you think I would be able to afford while still saving money? Thank you!
Hi Whitney,
You should be able to manage a rent that will take about one third of your take-home or somewhere around $600, and still save about 10%. The wild card is who pays for your car insurance. If you have to pay, then that changes the numbers. Good luck!
Whitney’s
Per month take-home est. $1,860
Max. rent -$600
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$120
Car payments $0
Car insurance (who pays?) $0
Gas est. -$50
or Commuting est. $0
Groceries/food est. -$300
Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
Cell phone -$80
Credit Cards $0
Health Insurance $0
Student Loans -$150
Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$186
Cash left for all other expenses/Month $334
Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
Hi i make $500 a week consistently and the place im looking to rent is $750 including all utilities, the only actual bills i need to pay is car insurance which is $100 a month and food. Will i be able to afford this place?
Hi Amber,
It looks like you’ll be in good shape with $750 rent and even be able to save at least 10% of your take-home monthly. Enjoy your first apartment and good luck! P.S. Make sure you have $2,500-$3,000 in the bank before you sign the lease.
Amber’s Budget:
Per month take-home est. $2,000
Max. rent -$750
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) $0
Car payments $0
Car insurance -$100
Gas est. -$50
or Commuting est. $0
Groceries/food est. -$300
Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
Cell phone -$80
Credit Cards $0
Health Insurance $0
Student Loans $0
Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$200
Cash left for all other expenses/Month $480
Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
I make 11hr and work about 37-40hr a week. And want to rent an apartment that’s 540 a month. Will I be able to rent this?
Hi J,
It depends what the landlord’s guideline is. If they just look at your annual income and your tax returns show that you make somewhere around $22,000 a year and use the formula that you must have income 40 times your rent, then you should get it. But it will be a little tight managing all your monthly fixed and discretionary costs, but if you know how to live frugally it should be doable. A few hours of overtime would be a good help. Good luck!
J’s Budget:
Hours 38.5
Pay/hr $11.00
Total/yr (50 wks paid) $21,175
Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($4,235)
After tax take-home $16,940
Per month take-home est. $1,412
Max. rent -$540
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$108
Car payments $0
Car insurance $0
Gas est. $0
or Commuting est. -$125
Groceries/food est. -$300
Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
Cell phone -$80
Credit Cards $0
Health Insurance $0
Student Loans $0
Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
Cash left for all other expenses/Month $219
Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
Me and my girlfriend are looking to move into our own place sometime this winter. My pay varies due to working an odd number of overtime hours weekly, but on average I bring home about 1400-1700$ biweekly while my girlfriend brings home about 800$ biweekly herself. My other expenses add up to around 800$ monthly while hers add up to around 400$ or so. The apartment we are looking into at the moment runs about 1200-1300 includes water. Would we be able to afford this?
Hi Ricky,
Looks like you are in good shape even with the $1,300 rent. We estimated that with your relatively high fixed expenses you would still be able to save 15% of your incomes. And that is with your lower paychecks. When you have the higher paycheck months, you should put all that extra into savings. Make sure you mind your credit score so that in a couple of years you’ll be ready to get a place of your own. As always, double check the numbers. Good luck!
Ricky’s Budget:
After tax take-home – Ricky (50*$700) $35,000
After tax take-home – GF (50*$400) $20,000
Cash take-home -combined $4,583
Rent -$1,300
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$260
Ricky’s fixed payments -$800
GF’s fixed payments -$400
Gas est. ($50 each) -$100
or Commuting $0
Groceries/food est. for 2 -$450
Laundry/dry cleaning est. for 2 -$60
Cell phone est. $0
Credit Cards $0
Student Loan $0
Target savings 15% of take-home -$688
Amount left for discretionary expenses $526
*Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
I am 20 years old, I average 55k a year. My car payment is $350, insurance $200, phone bill $60 and my other bills include groceries $400, $150 for credit card payments. How much can I afford on an apartment?
I will be making 19 an hour.looking at a great rental for 850 all bills included . Is this doable
Gotta pay off credit card and save for retirement I am 55
Hi Brenda,
Check out this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/ that estimates max. rent based on hours worked and pay rate.
We did your rough budget on 40 hours, but it may be too much. Also, the two missing pieces of your expenses are 1.) health insurance premiums, since unlike many of our readers you are not on your parent’s plan, and 2.) credit card payments. Use the budget below as a starting point and adjust it for your actual take-home and expenses. Overall, based on the limited information you gave, you should be able to afford the $850 rental and save for retirement. Good luck!
Brenda’s Budget:
Hours 40
Pay/hr $19.00
Total/yr (50 wks paid) $38,000
Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($9,500)
After tax take-home $28,500
Per month take-home est. $2,375
Max. rent -$850
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) $0
Car payments $0
Car insurance $0
Gas est. $0
or Commuting est. -$125
Groceries/food est. -$300
Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
Cell phone -$80
Credit Cards ?
Health Insurance ?
Student Loans $0
Savings (target 20% of take-home) -$475
Cash left for all other expenses/Month $505
Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
I make 13.00 work 32to 30 hours .my rent 900
Cable $150 light $100
Phone bill $80 and car insurance $190
Also am having a baby
What can I do to help myself?
Hi Karla,
Does you baby have a daddy who will be able to help? Right now you cannot afford on your pay the expenses you have, let alone childcare and other baby costs. You need to cancel your cable and take a roommate to share your rent, immediately. Even then you’ll have under $200 left for discretionary expenses. If possible, you may need to move in with your family for a while after the baby comes so that you can get back on your feet financially. Good luck with everything!
Karla’s Budget:
Hours 30
Pay/hr $13.00
Total/yr (50 wks paid) $19,500
Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($2,925)
After tax take-home $16,575
Per month take-home est. $1,381
Max. rent -$450
Utilities, incl. cable/internet -$100
Car payments $0
Car insurance -$190
Gas est. -$50
or Commuting est. $0
Groceries/food est. -$300
Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
Cell phone -$80
Credit Cards $0
Student Loans $0
Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
Cash left for all other expenses/Month $171
Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
Hi! My brother and my friend are looking for a place. We all work the same job and each bring home about 1600 every month. I also have a $280 car payment and my insurance is $220. What can I afford?
Hi Nick,
Our basic formula estimates that your max. rent is 35% of your take-home, or $560. However, your rent money is going to your car payment, insurance and gas, estimated at $550 a month. With typical living expenses, and leaving some money for discretionary items, it looks like you can only afford about $250 a month for your share, maybe $300, if you really try to economize. Even that does not leave any room for savings. If your brother and friend have lower fixed expenses than you, they maybe able to pay more. If they also have pretty high car cost, you should look for a place in the $750-$900 range.
Nick’s Budget:
Per month take-home est. $1,600
Max. rent -$250
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$50
Car payments -$280
Car insurance -$220
Gas est. -$50
or Commuting est. $0
Groceries/food est. -$300
Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
Cell phone -$80
Credit Cards/ Gym Membership $0
Student Loans $0
Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
Cash left for all other expenses/Month $330
Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
So I plan on getting a job at a bookstore that pays $10.10 a hour..and there’s a place I’m eyeing that’s $600 a month in rent. I’m going to be in college part time and only have online classes. I have nothing else to pay for except food (I ride a bike and don’t really go out much and my parents pay for my cell phone bill, I also go to my parent’s to do laundry) will I be able to afford it?
Hi Emily,
Did you check this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay ? It shows that with your pay and 40 hour week, your max. rent is $500. However, it sounds like you will not have any commuting expenses and some other typical costs, so $600 should be doable for you. Make sure you have some money in an emergency fund before you move out. Good luck!
My girlfriend and I are currently searching for an apartment to rent this summer. This will be our first time living on our own. I current bring in about $3000-$3600 and she’s current at $2300-2600 a month. Together I guesstimate we are about $5700 a month. How much do you think we should spend on rent? 1B+1B. We bother also are saving 5k a piece before moving. DMV AREA
Thank you, MFA Editor
First, a reminder to all our commenters. Just give your first name, or a name your pick, and limit disclosing identifying information. This is the internet, after all!
Hi James,
You live in one of the most expensive rental markets in the country. (I checked DMV and found that it’s shorthand for the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia.) Luckily, both you and your SO make good money, so you can afford a $2,000 a month apartment and still be able to continue saving 10% of your incomes. You also have nice savings. You ask how much you should pay for rent. You should pay enough to get a nice, safe place with a reasonable commute to work, and that you’ll be happy to come home to. You may be able to get the right one for less than $2,000. We estimated that you have two cars with typical expenses, but you should do your own real budget with actual expenses. Good luck!
James’ Budget:
Cash take-home $5,700
Rent -$1,995
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$399
Car payments -$600
Car insurance payments -$300
Gas est. ($50 each) -$100
or Commuting $0
Groceries/food est. for 2 -$450
Laundry/dry cleaning est. for 2 -$60
Cell phone est. -$160
Credit Cards $0
Student Loan $0
Other fixed monthly bills $0
Target savings 10% of take-home -$570
Amount left for discretionary expenses $1,066
*Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
Me and my boyfriend are looking to get a place together I make roughly 1400 a month and he brings about 1600 a month the only other priority bill we have is his car not that is 285. so how much should we spend on rent?
Hi Kira,
Using our max. rent formula, take-home * 35%, your rent should not be more than $1,050 a month. It should work in your case because you don’t have high other fixed expenses. But your question is how much you should pay in rent. You should pay just enough to get a place that decent, safe, meets your main requirements and makes you happy to come home after work, but no more than the formula maximum. Depending on where you live, you may get a really nice 1BR for well under $1,000 or cannot find anything but a roommate share for even $1,050. Good luck!
I make about $1,400 a month after taxes. How much should I spend on rent? Giving that water and trash and sewer are included in the ren?
Hi Jeremiah,
You should not spend more than 35% of your take home pay, or $490, on rent and $400 range would be a safer level. You’ll have to also budget for electric and internet, about $100 a month and make sure you include in your budget all your other expenses. See rough budget below. Like most first time renters, consider starting with a roommate share. Good luck!
Jeremiah’s Budget:
Per month take-home est. $1,400
Max. rent 35% of take home -$490
Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$98
Car payments $0
Car insurance $0
Gas est. $0
or Commuting -$125
Groceries/food est. -$300
Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
Cell phone -$80
Credit cards $0
Student loan $0
Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
Cash left for all other expenses/Month $267
Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
I take home about $2,964 a month. The problem I’m running into is the area that I live in (Washington DC) I know my max that I can pay on rent is around $1250. But that’s nothing in the DC area. I’ve been renting a room out for $700 a month and have saved a little over $5,000. Do you think with how I’ve been saving I could afford something a little more? Like in the $1,300? Or should I try to keep it simple and find a studio around $1,200.
Hi. Me, my sister and boyfriend are trying to rent out an apartment for 900 max a month. I make about 1,400 or a but more a month. He makes about 1,200 a month roughly and she makes 2,000 roughly a month. We will be splitting the rent three ways. Is this doable?
Hi Luz,
At $300 rent plus maybe $50-$75 more for utilities, internet, etc., you should all be able to make it. The BF will have most trouble carrying his share, but your sister will have no problem. It might get a little tricky if your sister wants to do things with the apartment that the other two cannot afford. Good luck. Let us know how it works out.
I make $15/hr car payments $200 daycare $130 phone $126 insurance $100 how much in rent ?
Hi S,
Did you see the post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/. You can check your max. rent from that chart – at $15/40 hours it’s $750. However, the numbers will be really tight for you because of your other expenses. Here’s how it looks, under $170 a week to cover all your other expenses. It’s not a lot because you have two to support. If you can find a place in the $600 range a month, you would have more breathing room. Good luck!
S’s Budget:
Hours 40
Pay/hr $15.00
Total/yr (50 wks paid) $30,000
Est. taxes 15% ($4,500)
After tax take-home – $25,500
Per month take-home $2,125
Max. rent -$750
Utilities (20% of rent) -$150
Car Payment -$200
Car insurance -$100
Daycare -$130
Phone -$126
Cash after fixed exp. $669
Per week $167
was wanting to know If I’m making $800 a month Should I be looking for something in the $500 or less range
According to this algorithm you are looking at a $80 a month apartment. I think you need another job.
Hi Nick,
If you take home $800 a month, you should be looking for a roommate share in the $250 range and even with that it will be tight. Good luck!
Hi. I’m thinking about moving out in a couple of months. I take home around $1500-1700 a month. I also pay a car note that’s $343 a month. I found an apartment that’s $550 with water included. Do you think I would be able to afford it?
I take home 1450 a month after taxes and a 228 car payment. What could I afford?
Hi Diddles,
If you want to have about $200 a week or $800 a month, after rent, utilities and car payment, let’s see how it looks: $1,450 – $800 = $650 – $228 = $422 max. rent and utilities. Looks like you should be looking at roommate shares, unless you live in a really low cost housing market. If you think that you can manage with $150 a week or $600 a month for all your other expenses, then $1,450-$600-$228 = $622. You’d be looking at about $500 in rent and $100 or so in utilities. Just remember, when you are on your own you have to pay for everything, including laundry detergent and toilet paper. Make sure you have saved $1,500-$2,000 before you move. Good luck!
My question is about buying a coop. Me and my girlfriend are interested in possibly taking over my uncles coop which I have to talk to him about. The only problem is that I have a jail record and bad credit but I had an idea of just putting her name on it and not mine. I know she would have to go through background checks and credit checks but I’d like to know that would this work or would I also have to go through a background and credit check check?
Hi,
Just couple of pieces of advice from a layman’s perspective. If your girlfriend’s name is the only one as an owner in the legal documents, the coop is hers. If you ever break up she can kick you out. If she has good enough income, assets and credit rating to pass the coop board, she should be able buy the coop without you. What would she say if the board asks who will be living in the place? That might bring out your name and bring out your background. Talk to a lawyer who can advice you about all the legal ramifications of this potential deal. Good luck!
Hi there, thanks for the easy formulas…but what about those who are self employed? I’m a sole proprietor and my gross annual income averages $128,000. My net annual income is about $99,500. Could I rent an apartment that is $3200 a month?
Hi Bunch of Daisies, (Love that email handle!)
When you are self employed you need to jump through some extra hoops before landlords will rent to you. If you have 3 years of tax returns that show steady income at the level you mentioned, the landlord will most likely approve you based on your net income of $99,500, after your business expenses, or at about $2,500. However, if that income level is recent, you may need extra support, maybe letters from steady clients stating that you continue to work for them and statement from your accountant outlining your current business income and expenses. Another way to ease landlord’s worries is to prepay some rent or give extra months of security deposit. Good luck!
Thanks so much for answering my question so quickly! And glad you like a “Bunch of Daisies” :)
You answer is so helpful! So for the self employed, take your total profit for the year and divide by 40 to get the recommended monthly rental.
And thanks for the extra tips! I have enough saved up to pay for a whole year, as I thought the only way I may find is place is to pay it all up front.
Hi Daisies,
Just wanted to clarify one item. The formula rent is maximum rent you should pay, not recommended. If you can get a nice place for less, more power to you!
Hi MFA Editors, my girlfriend and I have a combined salary of 86k per year, approximately 63k after taxes and deductions. Our monthly take home is about $4850/month. We both have 0 debt. Our communiting costs to work are a little high. She spends about $320/ month to commute and I’ll be spending about $250. We are looking at an apartment that is $1700/month utilities not included. Given our combined take home is this reasonable or a bit on the higher end?
Hi Dario,
If we use our formula for max. rent on take-home pay, or 35%, the amount is $1,698, so $1,700 is doable at the high end. If we start with your combined salaries, a typical landlord would be willing to rent you a place up to $86,000 divided by 40 or $2,150. It looks like you’ll be able to easily manage that $1,700 rent and have almost $2,500 a month after rent, utilities and commuting for all your other expenses and savings. Good luck!
Hi, my boyfriend and I are considering moving to a 3B/2B apt. for $1200/month. We currently live in a 2B/2B and pay $1166.44 total with water included + approx. $120 more for electricity, also a washer and dryer is included here as well as a microwave. The new place will not include water or a W/D or a microwave and will only have a refrigerator upon move in. We both take home approx. $1300 a check bi-weekly with approx. $600 in bills a piece/ month (high car payments, car insurance, etc.) besides the rent we currently split as approx. $500 for his and approx. $600 for mine. I pay an extra pet fee of $25. He has excellent credit, mine is fair. Would we be foolish to move to this more expensive place for the extra bedroom we so desperately need?
My husband takes home about 3400 a month after taxes and we are looking for a new place to rent . How much can we afford a month ?
Hi Lindsay,
Our basic formula is that you should not spend more than about a third on your rent, max. 35% In your case that is $3,400 * 0.35 = $1,190. Of course, you need to budget in all your other expenses to see if you can manage the formula rent and everything else. We often see that people’s budgets are blown up by high car payments and insurance costs, and student loan payments. Good luck!
I make about 1700 a month. I want to rent a 2 bedroom for $825 and lights are the only thing I would need to pay, should I be able to afford this?
Hi Tiana,
With your take-home of $1,700, your max. rent target is 35% of that or $595. At $825, at least $900 with electric, you will be severely rent challenged, with more than half of your income going to housing. Do you need a 2BR? With your pay, 1BR would better fit your budget. Good luck!
hi im about to be hopefully to be making 10an hour this september i m 24 year. old. im lookin at an aprtment thsats 649 i make 9.50 an hur right now working full time is it a possibility at all
Hi Manuel,
Did you see our post about estimating affordable rent when you get paid hourly. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/
If you work 40 hours/week and get paid $9.50/hr, then your max. affordable rent is $450-$500. $649 will be really pushing it. You’ll be “rent poor” and have really live frugally. Have you considered starting out with a roommate share? In any case, try to save a nice nest egg before you move, at least $2,000. Good luck!
Hi my name is Esmeralda and I work full time with $10 an Hour , i work 36 hours a week and I get payed every other week . Would I be able to rent a $465 studio apartment ?
Hi Esmeralda,
Take a look at the chart on this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/. It shows that your max. affordable rent is $438, at 35 hour week. $465 is pushing it a little, but if you really love the place, don’t have big credit card, car or other bills, and can live frugally, it should be doable. Good luck!
I just got this job paying $7.80 an hour and am anticipating becoming a first apartment renter of an apartment estimated $385 a month….Can I Go Thru With It. What Are My Options/Obstacles??
Hi James,
Did you see this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/ that has a chart showing your max. rent at various hourly wages and weekly hours? Your max. rent falls in the $350 range so $385 is not a big stretch. Our rough estimate is that you’ll have about $120 or so a week for all your other expenses (commuting, food, clothing, etc.). Only you know if that’s enough. Good luck!
James’ Budget:
Hours 35
Pay/hr $7.80
Total/yr (50 wks paid) $13,650
Est. taxes 12% ($1,638)
After tax take-home – $12,012
Per month take-home $1,001
Max. rent -$385
Utilities -$100
Cash after fixed exp. $516
Per week $129
I make 50k a year. About $3,098 after tax a month. How much in rent can I afford if I have about $300 credit card debt?
Hi Athena,
One way is to estimate on your salary – $50,000 divided by 40 = $1,250. Or take 35% of your take-home pay – $3,098*0.35 = $1,084.
If you don’t have car payments, student loans or other big bills, you could even spend the higher amount, but why don’t you aim at rent in the $1,000 range and put all extra money towards your credit card debt. Get that stone off your neck as quickly as possible. Carrying a balance and paying high credit card interest is one of the worst financial moves you can make. Good luck!
I make roughly 500 dollars a month working part time ( i got to college as well) my boyfriend works a 9-5 job and makes 25.00 and hour working monday through friday. what would our maximum budet be for renting a house or appartment ? keep in mind his car payment is 515 a month… i dont have car payments its paid off.
Hi Imzuzujulie,
Did you see our post on how to calculate your affordable rent when you have hourly pay. In your case it would be safest to base the rent target on his pay only, since your work is more uncertain and you may not be able to work during exams. Also, that approach would give you two a little extra safety because he has high car payments. If you look at the chart on the above mentioned post you’ll see that your max. rent is $1,094-$1,250, depending on if he gets paid for 35 or 40 hours a week. Good luck!
I want to rent a house in Clarksville TN for 1200$ mo I make 42k yr will I get approved ?
Hi Marvin,
You might not get approved in a very competitive rental market, where your max. rent would be $1,050 on your salary. If there are many rentals available in your market, try to negotiate with the landlord for a little break in the rent. You never know- it could work. Tell them you love the place, you have a good steady job, but you don’t want to spend more than $1,000. Maybe you split the difference at $1,100. Just make sure you have other options if the answer is no. Or maybe the landlord could sweeten the deal with free parking spot or another amenity. Let us know what happens. Good luck!
My fiance and I are young adults with a beautiful daughter and are trying to get our own place. Together we make 1,217 a month will we be able to afford living in an apartment?
Hi Marissa,
Your max. rent at 35% of your take-home pay is only $425. Depending on where you live that may or may not be enough for any rental. If you live in a high rent area, there maybe some rent assistance available to your family. Check with local social services. Good luck!
I make about 1350-1400 every two weeks. I am looking at a studio costing 625. I also pay about 550 in student loans along with other bills. Is renting an apartment for 625 decent For what I make?
Hi Korki,
Assumimg that what you make is after taxes, your formula max. rent is as much as $945, so $625 is well within your means, even with your loans and other bills. See below. Plus looking at this from the point of 4-week months, you’ll still have the 2 extra bi-weekly paychecks a year to build an emergency fund.
Korki’s Budget:
Monthly take-home $2,700
Rent $(625)
Utilities (20%) $(125)
Monthly bills $(550)
Cash for other expenses $1,400
Per week $350
Ok, so I’m starting a new job where I should be getting paid $45/hr. I will get paid biweekly. How much do you think I can afford in rent?
Hi Rokia,
First, congratulations on getting a highly paid job!
Your target rent depends on how many hours a week you work.
Take a look at the chart in this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/. It will show your maximum affordable rent at various hours. Since the chart does not go up to $45 an hour, you can add together $15 and hour and $30 an hour estimates or use this formula (hours/week * $45 * 50 weeks)/40. So, at 35 hours, you’ll get ($45*35*50)/40 = $1,968.75. The reason we like to use a 50 week year in the formula is that many hourly workers do not have paid vacations or sick days, so they end up getting paid for fewer than 52 weeks each year. It look like you can go close to $2,000 a month in rent, but as we always point out, if you can get a place you’ll be happy to come home to for less, it’s better for you and let’s you save more.
Good luck!
if i make to 2,800 a mouth and my girlfriend makes 1,000, with a grand total of 3,000 a month, could we afford a one bedroom apartment for 2,000 a month.[keep in mind we live in Mass.] in other words. after car insurance and phone bills that leaves about 800$ dollars to use for gas,food and other things. is this a realistic budget.
Hi Caleb,
$800 a month for 2 people is too little. We like to see at least $200 per person per week for living expenses and savings after all your fixed bills (rent, utilities, car, loans, etc.). Based on your combined income, if your numbers are after tax, you should be looking for places in the $1,300 range. Good luck!
Question,
I take home $3,270.00 a month in NYC. I’m looking for a studio. I currently have a personal loan payment of 220 a month and school loan of 160 a month and I like to pay down my CC balance about 250 a month. What can i afford?
Hi Steven,
If we use the formula max. rent of 35% of your take home, and 10% or so for utilities and deduct your other fixed payments, you would do OK. See below Budget 1. (Re: utilities – in NYC, your rent typically includes heat, water and trash collection, so you only pay for electric and cable/internet, therefore we use lower % estimate.)
However, you are not likely to find a studio in NYC for $1,145. You’ll probably find a roommate share with a lengthy commute to Manhattan, if that’s where you work. To get a studio, you need to increase your rent target to closer to $2,000, which we estimate leaves you only $130 a week for food clothing, commuting, etc. (see budget 2.) Another problem you’ll have is finding a landlord who would rent to you a clearly unaffordable apartment. Can you find a guarantor who makes at least $160,000 a year (80 times your rent)? Do you have high savings to have as an emergency fund? Most young people moving to NYC start with a roommate share and it looks to us that it would be the best option to you also. Good luck!
Steven’s Budget 1:
Per month take-home $3,270
Max. rent -$1,145
Utilities (10% of rent) -$114
Credit cards -$250
Student and Personal Loans -$380
Cash after fixed exp. $1,381
Per week $345
Steven’s Budget 2:
Per month take-home $3,270
Max. rent -$2,000
Utilities Est. -$120
Credit cards -$250
Student and Personal Loans -$380
Cash after fixed exp. $520
Per week $130
Hello my name is nyja Stewart I am a crossing guard I work for the city
of new York I make 400 every two weeks how can I get an apartment with that someone please help I really need a place of my own.
We make 1850 every 2 weeks and that’s. After taxes
OK, Amanda, that changes things quite a bit. You and your BF, make 2 * $1,850 or $3,700 after taxes in a typical two pay check month. (You have an extra pay period twice a year, but use that money for savings.)
If you pay maximum 35% of your take-home for rent, or $1,295 a month, plus up to 20% for all utilities, below is your starting monthly budget. It looks like you two would be safe to spend in the $1,300 range for your rent and would qualify for that with most landlords. My question is, do you have to spend that much in your area for a place that you’d be happy to come home to? If you can pay less, you can save more, which is always a good thing long term. Good luck!
Amanda’s Budget:
Per month take-home $3,700
Max. rent -$1,295
Utilities (20% of rent) -$259
Car Payment -$339
Car insurance -$260
Cash after fixed exp. $1,547
Per week $387
My bf and I are planning to move together 2017 do you think we can afford it I work 36 hours a week a full 6day check is around 1050 and my bf full time 40 hour check is 800 and I have a 339 car payment and he has a 260 car insurance payment. What would be our limit
Hi Amanda,
We have to do this two ways, because it’s not totally clear if your pay is pretax or after taxes.
If after taxes, you net $1,850 a week, or $7,400 for 4 weeks. If you spend 35% on rent, or $2,590, you’ll still have plenty of money for your car, etc. other payments and savings.
If the number are before tax, $1,850 *52 weeks = $96,200 /40 = $2,405 max. rent. Either way, it looks like you could afford up to $2,500 or so in rent. Depending where you live that may be enough for a 4BR home or a studio apartment. Either way, you can definitely afford to move in together. Good luck!
I my wife and son are thinking of renting a place for 325 a month. I make about 1100 monthly do yo think this is doable on my income?
Hi Tim,
If you used our rent
rent calculator, see results below, it says that you could afford as much as $385. However, you have family to support, so you need to look carefully at all your expenses. If you take the $325 apartment and add about $100 a month for utilities, you have only $675 a month or $168 or so a week after housing costs for all your other bills. It seems tight for 3 people. You do not mention if you have any savings. If not, can you delay your move, until you have saved $1,500 – $2,000 or so for initial moving/security deposit, etc. expenses, with a little emergency fund left over? Of course, whether you move now or later depends also on what’s your living situation right now. If it is untenable, you may have to take the apartment and live super-frugally, while you build up your family’s income. Perhaps you’d be eligible for some housing assistance. Good luck!
Total per 2 pay period month: $1,100
Affordable Monthly Rent: $385
Estimated Utilities: $77
Maximum Affordable Housing Expense: $462
Target Savings To Move Out: $1,155
Hi. My girlfriend and I are thinking about moving out together. We both make 12.50 and hour and each get about 35-40 hours a week. Apartments in my area seem to range from around 1100-1300 a month. I’m a little stressed about how much money we would have to spend. Is this doable?
Hi J,
At $12.50 and 35 hours, each of you can pay about $550. See this chart https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/
That gives you a target of $1,100 in total, so your rent is doable. Good luck!
I get payed every two week and only get $287 pluse I have to small chihuahuas and I’m looking for a one bedroom can someone please help me
After all of my obligations are paid for I have about 1600$ what should my rent be?
Hi Heidi,
If all your obligations (car, loans, cell phone, credit cards, etc., etc.) are truly paid, then plan to target at least $200 a week free cash after rent and utilities. If you pay $650-$700 in rent and $100 or so in utilities, you’ll have $200 a week left. That should be enough to cover all your other living expenses, such as food, clothing and entertainment plus leave something for savings. Good luck!
Hello! I get paid every 2 weeks (my pay has been 640 per paycheck). I am thinking about moving into an apartment that’s $691 (sewer, garbage, and cold water is included). Do you think this is doable? Thanks
Sorry to break it to you Megan, but no, we don’t think it’s doable. You would be paying more than half of your income income in rent, even before electric and internet, making you “extremely rent-burdened.” Can you find a roommate share in the $450 range. That would leave you enough money to enjoy your first apartment experience rather that always live in stress about having the rent money. Good luck!
Hey me and a friend of mine is trying to get an apartment for 750 we both on disability. We will be getting 1506 a month would we get the apartment
I am planning to rent a 2 bedroom apartment with 3 roommates . The rent is 1,445 . We will be splitting the rent 3 ways. My income is 1,283 . They both make 500 every two weeks is it possible to get the apartment?
Hi Cynthia,
It looks like your incomes combined of about $3283 a month (excluding from calculation the 2 extra paychecks your roomies get each year in a 3-paycheck months). If that is after tax, then your max affordable rent $3283*0.35 = $1149. If that is before tax, your annual combined incomes are $1283*12=$15396 + 1000* 26 pay periods =$26000, totaling $41396. If landlords in your area require you to make 40 times your rent, then $41396 divided by 40 = $1035.
So, the rent is too high based on our standard formulas. However, your market may have more apartments than renters so landlords may be more flexible. The only way to find out is to talk to several landlords and see what they say. Just keep in mind that even if someone rents you a place at $1445, each of you will be spending almost half of your income in rent and utilities.
Good luck!
So I’m 20 years old and go to college full time and have two part time jobs. I am a busser who makes tips that add up to about $10-$12 hourly. I just got hired and this is my third week and plan to get about 20+ hours there a week and am paid weekly. My other job pays $9 an hour and I get about 15 hours a week there and is biweekly pay. Roughly 35 hours a week. I am also looking to move out in the next month, two months at the latest. I have $4k saved up to pay for next semester which is about $2700 including books and such. Whatever is leftover will go towards a down payment on an older car I’m looking to finance. Based on all that, is it possible I can afford an apartment where my half would be $415-$490? Plus a $70 monthly phone bill and car insurance around $150? Opinions are welcome since I have no idea what I’m doing and don’t know how to calculate everything to see if I can even do it. I’m on my own with this moving out thing so…:/
Hi Sara,
Full time college and 2 part time jobs is heavy load. Kudos to you for managing all that. Let’s say you make 20 * $10 = $200 week in job 1 and 15 * $9 = $135 in job 2, or $335 total per week or $1,340 a 4 week month (we leave a little slack for days you may miss for exams, etc.). See below for a rough budget. It looks too tight to us. Do you have to have a car to get to your jobs? Can you stay where you are one more semester and continue to save aggressively? If you can save a good emergency fund ($1,000) before your move, we’d feel a lot better. Good luck!
Sara’s Budget:
Monthly pre-tax $1,340
Taxes 10% ($134)
Per month take-home $1,206
Max. rent -$450
Utilities (20% of rent) -$50
Car insurance -$150
Est. car loan -$100
Phone -$70
Cash after fixed exp. $386
Per week $97
Hello! I work 8:30-4 for full time at $11.25 a hour. I was looking for a apartment for myself for 800. Would that be too much? Thank you
Hi Desiree,
Did you check our chart on hourly pay and rents. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/hourly-rent-target/
It tells that your max. rent is somewhere between $500 and $550. $800 is way too much, especially if you have any other fixed expenses, such as car payments, student loans, credit card debt, etc. Keep on looking for more affordable places. Good luck!
Hi there!
With my current income at $1400 I know I can’t afford to rent an apartment in Manhattan,NY but I am looking to rent a room. The max I will be paying for a room is $700. Nothing more than that and I have pretty good credit. Is this possible???
Hi Veronica,
You should be able to find a roommate share for $700, but it will be in the outer boroughs. Check out for shares in Upper Upper West Side (Hamilton Heights) and Bronx. Be prepared for a 45min to 1 hr commute if you work in Manhattan. While rents are high in NYC, there are so many things that you can do free or cheaply that you should be able to manage, even if you pay half of your income in rent. Get a monthly Metrocard, don’t Uber or taxi, cook at home, and hang out with people in your income bracket. You’ll have a great first apartment experience. Good luck!
You’ll
Hi MFA,
You are soo right. Manhattan is where I plan on being and she told me today that upper Manhattan will be the only locations in Manhattan to rent a room for that price. She mentioned Hamilton heights, west Harlem and Washington heights which is located in upper Manhattan and also the other boroughs. Thanks!
Hello there, I live in New York City where the rent rule is you gota make 40x the rent. And since I have no personal guarantor, I discovered a guarantor agency where you pay a one time fee and as long as the guarantor makes 50x a year with good credit, it’s almost guranteed youl get an apartment. Also the person renting an apartment has to make at the least 27k with good credit. That’s a huge break since the average person doesn’t make even close to 40x the rent. Of course it depends on which landlord accepts it. It’s almost like hiring a guarantor.
With that being said, my question is, if my income is 2,200 a month can I rent an apartment that’s $1500 or is that stretching it
Hi Todd,
$1,500 is definitely stretching it!! Even if that $2,200 is after tax, it will be tight. If it is before tax, even worse. But we do understand NYC rental market. $1,500 is not much here, but you probably can get a roommate share for $1,000 or less, especially if you don’t mind a longer commute.
Do you know how to cook? Do you plan to brown bag lunches? Do you shop for clothing at thrift stores? Do you always travel by subway or bus (monthly pass $116.50) or Citi Bikes ($14.95/mo.), never Uber? Do you hang out with people in your income bracket? Do you look for free or cheap entertainment option? Can you budget your expenses to the penny?
If you answer yes to all these questions and $2,200 is after taxes, you might make it even at $1,500 rent, but you’d have to put Scrooge to shame with your frugality. Good luck!
Hi MFA Editors
Thanks for the response. To answer your question I make a bit over 2,200 AFTER TAX. I do buy a monthly metro card but that’s just for work and coming home. I guess if I was 21 years old who goes out every weekend, then yes I agree that’s stretching it. But in my case, I’m a home body so I don’t go out a lot. So I’m not worried about entertainment since I really don’t go out a lot. Plus by the time I’m ready to rent, il have over 20k in my account and I’m willing to negotiate a deal with the landlord where I might be willing to pay some extra security deposite. And my credit is great. Please tell me your thoughts on this.
Thanks again
Todd,
You need to get out more! There are tons of things in NYC you can do that don’t cost any or very little money. Are you participating in the Broadway ticket lotteries? If you are lucky, you can 2 tix to Hamilton for $10 each.
I does look like you will be able to handle that $1,500 rent with your quiet lifestyle. You’ll also have nice savings account in case of an emergency. Just don’t spend all those savings on rent. If you prepay rent, make sure you put each month the rent money back into savings account. And finally, congrats on your great credit score. It will help you in so many places, even get you a good rate on renter’s insurance. Good luck!
MFA Editors,
Yes maybe I should go out more but right now saving for that great apartment is my number one priority. I’m so grateful to the person who told me that there are places where I can get a guarantor for a one time fee since in my case, I don’t know any relative or friend who’d be able to meet the requirements. If it wasn’t for the guarantors office people like me would never be able to rent an apartment here.
Hello MFA, me and my fiance are both employed, with 37,560 being our annual income. We’re looking at a 1362 figure for a rental. Water/heat and gas are included in the rent. Would we be able to make it work? We have approx 375 in car ins bills together, cellphone bills at 100 aprox together, a bank bill at 50 approx, gas at 60, internet/phone at 80. Groceries at 100-200. We are not sure at electric so we’re assuming 200-300. Thank you in advance.
Hi Dee,
According to our basic formula, your max. rent is $939 on your combined incomes,so you are looking to pay more than $400 more. With the expenses you have that makes your budget far too tight. See below. You have little room for saving an emergency fund and what will happen if one of your cars has a problem? You might be able to get by for a little while, but any little hick-up will put your over the edge. Cutting it so close, moneywise, will also put extra stress in your relationship. We hope there are more affordable options in your area. Good luck!
Dee’s Budget:
Total/yr – Combined $37,560
Est. taxes 15% ($5,634)
After tax take-home – $31,926
Per month take-home $2,661
Max. rent -$1,362
Utilities (20% of rent) -$200
Car -$375
Gas -$60
Phones/internet -$180
Groceries -$200
Loan -$50
Cash after fixed exp. $234
Per week $58
Hey MFA I live in Texas my brother and I was thinking about moving into a apartment that monthly rent is $980 and we split it we have no other bills just electric bill and we both make $9 a hour , is that possible? To do
Hi MN,
It depends how many hours your work a week.
Check out our rent table for hourly pay. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/
You can see that your each have to work 45 hours a week to afford comfortably $980 rent. You could squeeze by even at 40 hours, but less than that it would be iffy. You must have other expenses than electric. How about commuting to work? Make sure you take all of those kind of bills into account before you sign the lease. Good luck!
Hello. I make 10.50 an hrs full time (40 hours). I am looking to rent a place that runs 649. This is a little over (maybe by 100) but is it doable?
Hi Jessy,
Did you check our max. affordable rent chart for hourly pay?
https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/. It shows that your max. rent at your pay and hours is $525. Whether you can afford that depends on what other fixed monthly expenses you need to cover in addition to rent and utilities. Good luck!
I make 10.50 a hour 40hrs.. With no other bills except for $50 phone bill.. Will I be able to handle $800 a month rent.. Untilites not included?
Hi Mark,
$800 in rent is far too much on your income (see below). You hardly have enough for basic necessities (food, gas, clothing, etc.) and no safety margin. You should look for a place in the $500 range. Good luck!
Mark’s Budget:
Hours 40
Pay/hr $10.50
Total/yr (50 wks paid) $21,000
Est. taxes 15% ($3,150)
After tax take-home – $17,850
Per month take-home $1,488
Max. rent -$800
Utilities (20% of rent) -$160
Phone -$50
Cash after fixed exp. $478
Per week $119
Thanks Danny and mfa for the feedbacks. So as I stated earlier all I can do for now is rent a room. My current salary is about $1400 a month so I’m looking to rent a room between $650 and $700. I’m willing to pay a bit higher for a room because I personally don’t want to live with a whole bunch of people. Just one or MAYBE two people will be ok for me but no more than that. Here in New York City, rent is crazy high so I’m guessing that if I pay something like $650 or higher, chances are good it will be one person or MAYBE two people ….vs rooms that are $500 or below, more people would be living there. And I’m looking to rent a room in an apartment in Manhattan…….. My question is, with my current salary, ($1400 a month) can I rent a room that’s between $650 and $700?
Thanks again
Hi Tony,
The answer is yes, you should be able to rent a roommate share in an apartment where someone else is the tenant on the lease. Then it’s just up to you to explain your roommate(s) how you will be able to pay your share of rent & utilities and still cover all your other living expenses, such as food, commuting to work, etc. The fact that you have nice savings will help you to convince them. As we answered to Danny’s comment:
“You have the greatest flexibility if you look to take over a share in an existing group house where your “landlord” will be the roommates whose names are on the lease. Renting in NYC you also have to be on the lookout for scams and never hand over money until you know for sure that the rental is legit. Scammers have been known to rent airbnb apartments for a weekend and advertise bargain priced roommate shares to rent, collect deposits and disappear.”
Good luck! Let us know what happens.
Good evening MFA Editors,
I deeply appreciate your tips and advice. You’ve been a great help. Just a couple more questions that I have.
1) I guess depending on who I rent the room from, would I be able to lease the room for atleast a year or more? I’m assuming that I can do it since I’m going to be saving more than a years worth of room rent. That would help me a lot in saving money until I get my own place.
2) I noticed that many rooms come furnished, however I’m looking to possibly get into an unfurnished room since I’m not that comfortable sleeping on a bed that someone else used. Do some rooms come unfinished ? And if so, how do I find them and if you know of a website that lists unfurnished rooms, that would help me a lot!
3) Finally, I understand exactly what you mean about scams that are out there. Would you happen to know the best websites that I can use to find rooms for rent when I’m ready to make that move. Last thing I want is to be scammed.
Again, thank you so much for your tips. I will certainly keep you updated on everything and I will save this website on my computer so that I can ask you more questions if I need to. Have an awesome evening!
Hi Tony,
In reply to your questions:
1) I guess depending on who I rent the room from, would I be able to lease the room for atleast a year or more? I’m assuming that I can do it since I’m going to be saving more than a years worth of room rent. That would help me a lot in saving money until I get my own place.
When you rent a roommate share, and you are not a tenant on the lease, you just have to negotiate the length of your stay. It can be month-to-month but continue for years if everything works out. Or you may hate the situation and move out next month. Just have a clear understanding, preferably in writing (for example, as an email confirmation of what was agreed when you took the place. Check out this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2005/11/roommate-agreement-checklist/ about what types of things you should discuss before taking a roommate share.
2) I noticed that many rooms come furnished, however I’m looking to possibly get into an unfurnished room since I’m not that comfortable sleeping on a bed that someone else used. Do some rooms come unfinished ? And if so, how do I find them and if you know of a website that lists unfurnished rooms, that would help me a lot!
Have you ever stayed in a hotel? Anyway, some rooms come furnished, some unfurnished. Just keep in mind that having your own furniture means moving costs, especially if you have a large mattress. When your search for a roommate share look for unfurnished. We don’t know of any site that would specialize in them.
3) Finally, I understand exactly what you mean about scams that are out there. Would you happen to know the best websites that I can use to find rooms for rent when I’m ready to make that move. Last thing I want is to be scammed.
There are so many apps for apartment hunting, like the ones mentioned in this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2013/05/rating-the-best-apartment-hunting-apps/. We have not rated roommate hunting apps separately, so your best bet is to ask your friends what they have used. Just be careful!
Good evening Mfa Editors,
For the most part, you’re right about everything except for one slight thing. When renting in the borough of Manhattan, for the most part, you do have to make 40x the rent. That part we can agree on. However, if one is planning to move further uptown in Manhattan, that 40x rent rule gets a bit more relaxed simply because those areas are a bit sketchy. Not dangerous by any means, but just a bit sketchy. Because of this, uptown Manhattan is also more affordable. Especially when you’re talking about areas such as Harlem and Washington Heights……… Now when we are talking about downtown Manhattan, that is a whole different ball game. To rent in downtown Manhattan, not only do you have to make 40x the rent, but the rents are just ridiculously high and to me, you don’t get what you pay for. I personally would never pay $3500 or more to live in a tiny closet. That’s just nuts. Most areas of downtown Manhattan are just that…apartments the size of closets with very high rents….vs…..uptown Manhattan the rents are more affordable and the apartments there are much bigger. But again like I said, anybody wanting to only live in Manhattan and don’t want to pay high rent, your best bet is to look into uptown Manhattan. Neighborhoods such as Harlem and Washington Heights would be your best bet. Areas there are more affordable AND some landlords don’t care if you don’t make 40x the rent.
Im going to tell you just a bit about my situation so that you can answer my questions and I have a few questions. In my case, I am currently working for a temp agency which seems to be the “norm” now a days for MANY people since most companies refuse to hire people straight off the bat. Apparently millions of others are in the same boat as I am. However this agency always finds me work. Some lasting a few weeks, some lasting several months depending on what’s available. When a job is complete, the longest I’ve been out of work is only a couple of weeks and then they find work for me again. Again, before you answer my question, I would appreciate it if you don’t judge me for working for temp agency or say something like…….”why are you choosing to go through temp agencies instead of through the company?”…………because as i stated before, now a days it’s EXTREMELY difficult to find work within the company itself.
My current situation is as follows: I have no car, my credit is great, I have no debt, I hardly go out and spend money. I’m planning on saving up to about $13,000 before I start room hunting.
So in my case, I know for a fact that for now, I have no choice but to rent a room. Relocating from where I am is not an option, and has to be done, My monthly pay check at this temporary job is about $1385 a month (almost $1400) when you round it off. My price range for a room that I believe would work is between $600-$750. Would that work or is it cutting it a bit close?
My other question is, are there some owners that would be understandable with me working through an agency being that I have good credit, I pay my bills on time or have enough money in the bank?
When I can afford my own place I’m looking to move in the Washington Heights area in New York City. I heard from people that in this particular area (especially west of Broadway) you have to make 40x the rent…vs..areas east of Broadway, the landlords or owners may not care as much about that. My question is, if I want to live in an area where I have to make 40x the rent but don’t make that yearly income, and if my credit is good and I can put down a large deposite (maybe even a years worth of deposite) would some landlords make an exception?
Thank you!
Hi Tony,
We know that NYC is crazy expensive and many people pay half of their income in rent, which is what you think you’ll be paying. You probably cannot afford your own place even at $600-750, so you should look for a roommate share in an existing group house. Then you don’t have to deal with the landlord and make 40X rent and you might get something by just paying couple of months of security. You have done well with savings and getting your credit score up. That’s great for your next step, when you find a permanent job and can look for your own place. Good luck!
Lol I feel like I’m not talking to a real person here because you didn’t answer all my questions. Are you telling me that every single landlord will reject me because I’m at a temp agency, even if I’m making much money per month? I also hear that more private owners are more lenient with people who work for temp agencies and who don’t make 40x a rent. Is this true? Thanks
Hi Tony,
A typical NYC landlord will want to see your last 2 tax returns, last couple of months’ bank statements and pay stubs plus a letter from your employer attesting to how much you make. The fact that you are long-term employed by a temp agency should be fine, if you can prove that you your income is steady and you make 40 times your rent. If you don’t clear that 40X hurdle it does not matter if your income comes from General Motors. The landlord’s main concern is that you can pay your rent on time, in full, every month. There are rental markets where you might be able to negotiate, but not in NYC, where the the landlord knows that he can always find another tenant who’ll meet the guideline.
If you don’t make 40X your rent, you can find a guarantor for your rent, but they have to make 80X the rent. Or you can pay a year of rent in advance. It a cruel world out there for first time renters.
PS. Danny is right that some private owners may rent to you even if you don’t meet the guideline, but even those apartments are expensive and would cost most of your income. A large majority of young first time renters in NYC start out in roommate apartments that are less expensive and more flexible.
Hello MFA Editors,
I actually have a comment about Tony’s post. As far as the 40x rent rule, I hear that the 40x rent rule is a general rule to rent an apartment here but at the same time, every landlord is different. Not all landlords here in New York City require you to make 40x the rent. But those landlords are usually more private owners. Those you can probably find on Craigslist. However they might look at other things such as your credit score, employment history etc. remember, every landlord has different requirements. One just has to shop around. The ones that have that 40x rent requirements are usually real estate offices where they are strict on that rule . However I’ve heard that even with some of those real estate offices, you can put down a larger deposit if you don’t make 40x the rent. Many landlords and real estate agencies accept a larger deposit if you don’t make 40x the rent but not all of them do. Thats like a 50/50 deal that you can get away with putting down large amount of deposit. Also having good credit is very essential to renting an apartment. The ones that say “Bad credit is ok” are usually scams and I would stay away from those ads
Hi Danny,
Yes, there are some private landlords that do not use the 40X formula. For example outside Manhattan you can find basement apartments (many illegal conversions) for rent in single family homes. But even those landlords want to see income and, as you rightly point out, credit scores that I high enough to show your ability to pay your rent. However, they may be more amenable to overlook things if the renter pays several months in advance or extra months of security deposit. And these apartments are not cheap either. Therefore first time renters moving into the city typically go for a roommate share. You have the greatest flexibility if you look to take over a share in an existing group house where your “landlord” will be the roommates whose names are on the lease. Renting in NYC you also have to be on the lookout for scams and never hand over money until you know for sure that the rental is legit. Scammers have been known to rent airbnb apartments for a weekend and advertise bargain priced roommate shares to rent, collect deposits and disappear.
I make $2400-$2500 a month after taxes (paid biweekly). This is just an internship for a few months, so I’m not taking out a 401K or insurance or any thing else unless required. Will a $1092 rent with about $100 in utilities be affordable? I spend about $300 on public transportation and $400 on food per month usually
Hi Karen,
If you have only an internship for a few months, how will you pay your rent after the internship is over? Even if the internship would continue or turn into a job, $1,192 housing expense would take half of your take-home. and after food and transportation leave you only about $125 a week for other living expenses. Why don’t you save the rent money while you have the internship and plan to move when you get a permanent job. You’ll have by then nice savings and you’ll be in a much safer position to move. Good luck!
I currently bring home $3100 a month. I found a really nice spot for $1300/month.
I’ve already saved up about 40k for my first home but I need to rent for a year.
Do you think I should find a place cheaper?
Hi Chris,
$1,300 a month is a lot of rent on your pay. Try to find a place in the $1,000 range and add the difference to your savings. You’ll be happy to have the extra money when you move to your place. You’ll be surprised how many expenses pop up at the closing when you are buying a home. For example, check out this post about the types of expenses you would have if you want to buy a condo. http://www.myfirstcondo.com/2014/03/how-much-should-you-budget-for-condo-closing-costs/
Good luck!
I’m planning to move with my girlfriend into at least a studio in LA. We both make a monthly income of about $800. I get paid biweekly and she gets paid weekly. All i have is car insurance to pay which is $100 for now. What do you suggest
Hi Chris,
Assuming that your pay is after taxes, your combined monthly income will be $1,600. You should not pay more that 35% of your take-home in rent, so your max rent is $560. You also need to budget at least $100-120 for utilities. If all you have in terms of other monthly bills is your car insurance, maybe you could push the rent to $600. However, if you have cell phone, credit card payments, long commute to work or any other fixed type of expenses, then stay in the $500 range. Good luck!
I currently make 24,900 a year how much rent can I afford before utilities?
Hi Jasmin,
The typical landlord formula is that you have to make, before tax, 40 times your monthly rent. So, $24,900 divided by 40 = $622.50.
That is the maximum. Good luck.
Hi, I make around $1900-$2000 a month. Would it be safe to go after a $900 a month apartment or should I stay in the $800 zone? This will be my first house/apartment that I’m renting by myself and I just want to be sure I have everything I need.
Hi John,
You should budget your rent based on the lower month’s income or $1,900. If that is your after tax take home, then 35% or max. you should pay for rent, is $665. If the $1,900 is before tax, or you make $at least 22,800 a year, then your max. rent is $22,800/40=$570.
You need to make sure that after paying rent and utilities you still have enough left over for all your other living expenses (car, insurance, food, clothing, entertainment, etc.) and even a little left for savings. Good luck!
Hi! I am looking to move into a new place and my friend is looking for a roommate in her affordable $600 a month 2 bedroom apartment. I currently (looking for other career related jobs) work at a retail store and make, after taxes, anywhere from $255-$280 a month. I wanted to know, in your opinion, if this would be a safe start as a first apartment as well as any other input. Thank you!
Hi Joe,
If you really make under $300 a month, you clearly cannot afford to pay $300 in rent. If, however, you make $255-280 a week, you can do it. You should not spend more than a third of your take-home pay on rent, so if you get $1,000+ a month, $300 is doable. Good luck!
Hi me and my girlfriend both make around $750-$800 we found a place for $525 a months and she has a car payment $325 so we would split it and each pay about $163 a month. We plan to save about $3,000 before moving out. Please. What’s your input on this?
Btw we will be married
Hi Brandon,
It looks really tight, especially in the lower income months. We assumed that your numbers were after tax. If not you need to take off another $150 or so a month for payroll taxes leaving you too little for food, etc. We added car insurance into the budget even though you did not mention it.
Can you boost your hours at work so you each get closer to $1,000 a month before you move. Saving $3,000 before moving is a great plan, but don’t get a place where you use your savings for rent. After paying first month’s rent and security deposit and basic furniture, the rest of the savings should be for your emergency fund (car breaks down, doctor bill, or like unanticipated expense.) Good luck!
Brandon’s Monthly Budget:
After tax take-home – Brandon $750
After tax take-home – GF/Wife $750
Per month take-home $1,500
Rent -$525
Est. Utilities (20% of rent) -$105
Car Payment -$325
Est. Car insurance -$125
Cash after fixed exp. $420
Per week $105
I’m moving out in 3 months, but I’m still trying to figure out a comfortable rent amount. I bring in an average of $2800 monthly after taxes. My car note is $336 with plus $100 insurance. Thanks for the help!
Hi J,
Here’s what our Rent Calculator says:
Do you get paid every other week or twice a month? Yes
What was your after-tax pay last pay period?
$1,400
Previous pay period?
$1,400
Total per 2 pay period month: $2,800
Affordable Monthly Rent: $980
Estimated Utilities: $196
Maximum Affordable Housing Expense: $1,176
Target Savings To Move Out: $2,940
J’s Monthly Budget:
Per month take-home $2,800
Rent -$980
Est. Utilities (20% of rent) -$196
Car Payment -$336
Est. Car insurance -$100
Cash after fixed exp. $1,188
Per week $297
Looks like you can afford about $1,000 monthly rent, but it does not mean you should do it. Rent below your means and boost up your savings so you can get your own place in a few years. And if your company offers a 401K match, make sure you save enough to get the full match. Good luck!
I am 26 and net about $2548 a month (50k salary). I am looking at getting an apartment next year for about $1000/month. I don’t have a car payment, and by next year all of my student loans will be paid off. Could I afford the rent?
Hi Chris,
The short answer is yes, you can afford $1,000. If we take $50,0000/40 your max. target rent is $1,250 a month.
Your monthly net indicates that you have about 40% taken from your salary for taxes, insurance and other deductions, so you are probably also putting some money into a 401K account. At 26, you are in a good financial shape for future.
Good luck!
Thanks. I know I could afford to pay $1000/month, but how much would you recommend?
Hi Chris,
As little as you can pay and still feel really happy with your place every time you open the front door. It’s not just a question of money. There is such a thing as quality of life also. Since you obviously have plenty of flexibility in picking a place that is right for you, why would you want to live in a place that you don’t like? Good luck!
I am a minimalist, and I make 104K. I dont want to buy a house and I am trying to get a $600-800 dollar apartment. Is it even possible for me to get a lease for one or am I forced to get my own property.
Hi Michael,
Congratulations for picking a field that pays really well. Any landlord would love to rent to you a $2,500 a month apartment, let alone a $600-800 one.
However, you are in a perfect position to buy your own property and get a nice tax benefits of mortgage interest and real estate tax deductions because with your income your are in a relatively high tax bracket. Save $20,000, buy a $100,000 starter condo and you’ll probably pay after taxes less than $800 a month, while building equity. (Check out our other site MyFirstCondo.com for advice on buying a condo.). Meanwhile, you’ll let someone who can only afford a $600 place get it.
Good luck!
I’ve also been apartment searching. I currently rent an apartment for $499… 2 bedroom. (I got it on a deal, originally for $699 a month). I make about $1,787 a month. No debt, excellent credit, no car insurance or car note. I’m trying to find just a one bedroom. What should be my max?
Hi Tori,
Did you try our rent calculator https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2015/09/rent-calculator/?
If you plug your 1787 in (click NO until you get to place that asks do you get paid every two weeks. Then input the take home $ from last two paychecks. If that number is $1,787, then you Max. rent is $625.
You are in good position because you don’t have other fixed monthly expenses. Keep up your good credit rating and keep up your savings. Good luck!
Hi I have been apartment searching and I found a nice one in a nice area for 1085. I bring home 2400+ a month, I have zero loans, great credit, and about 11k saved up. Can I afford this place?
Hi Kay,
That rent is $245 more a month than our maximum rent target for your income. Because of your nice nest egg could probably carry the higher rent, but why take the risk of having to use your savings for everyday living expenses? Look for a place in the $840 range, continue saving and buy your own place in a few years. Good luck!
Hello,
Wanting to rent a nice cabin on our cities lake. They are asking $600/month without utilities, but use their own well, which makes water cheaper. It’s small in size, so the electric won’t be as high either. I get paid monthly, a little over $2000 a month with about $12,000 saved up. I don’t have any loans or other payments that are needed to be paid. Would I be able to afford this place for at least a year?
Hi Jordan,
$600 a month rent is within guidelines on your income, even with $100-120 in monthly utilities. Congratulations for having managed to save a nice nest egg, which will back you up in case of any emergency.
Re: well water. Make sure you have it tested, so it’s safe to use for everything including cooking and drinking.
Good luck!
I am currently bringing home 920 after taxes,I was thinking of saving about 4000 before moving out and i also pay my car note which is 335 and insurance which is 100.00 how much could i afford for rent monthly?
Hi,
Is the $920 after taxes per week? every 2 week? per month? We need to know that before we can estimate.
I am currently bringing in about $2890 after taxes per month, or $4000 before taxes per month. Also I have a $410 monthly payment for my vehicle. While still being able to save about $500 a month, how much should I look to be able to pay for a decent apartment? This will be my first apartment.
I have also saved $5000+. I do really like an apartment that is about $1200 per month buy am worried about being apartment poor…
Well done on the savings front! See our full answer to your rent question below.
Hi Jay,
Did you check out our Affordable Rent Calculator?
You can let it estimate the rent for you both from pre-tax and after-tax incomes.
Here’s the pre-tax base on annual salary of $48,000 ($4,000* 12):
Do you have an annual salary? Yes
What is your annual salary?
$48,000
Affordable Monthly Rent: $1,200
Estimated Utilities: $240
Maximum Affordable Housing Expense: $1,440
Target Savings To Move Out: $3,600
Based on after-tax the calculation is:
Do you have an annual salary? No
Do you get paid weekly? No
Do you get paid every other week or twice a month? Yes
What was your after-tax pay last pay period?
$1,445
Previous pay period?
$1,445
Total per 2 pay period month: $2,890
Affordable Monthly Rent: $1,011
Estimated Utilities: $202
Maximum Affordable Housing Expense: $1,213
Target Savings To Move Out: $3,033
If you target your housing costs at no more than $1,200, including utilities, you’ll have $780 a month left after your car payments and $500 into savings or about $200 a week. You should be OK, especially since you have already $5,000 in savings (great start!), but only you know what other expenses you have. If you have student loans or other debt that needs to be factored in, too.
You are definitely ready for your own apartment, with your healthy income and diligent saving. Congratulations and good luck!
I currently make 1912 a month. I am on disability and the rest of my income is from the GI bill. How much apartment can I afford.
Hi Chanel,
We are assuming here that all your income is tax free.
If you use our Affordable Rent Calculator (https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2015/09/rent-calculator/), here’s what you see:
Do you have an annual salary? No
Do you get paid weekly? No
Do you get paid every other week or twice a month? Yes
What was your after-tax pay last pay period?
$1,912
Previous pay period?
$0
Total per 2 pay period month: $1,912
Affordable Monthly Rent: $669
Estimated Utilities: $134
Maximum Affordable Housing Expense: $803
Target Savings To Move Out: $2,007
The calculator says that your maximum target rent is $669. Hope this helps.
Good luck.
If i make about $2600 a month and my girlfriend makes about $500 (so $3100 before taxes), what amount for rent would you say is reasonable? Thanks
Hi Jared,
If the two of you make $3,100 pre-tax in salary, that is 12*$3,100 = $37,200 a year. If you input that number to our Affordable Rent Calculator https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2015/09/rent-calculator/
here is what you see:
Do you have an annual salary? Yes
What is your annual salary?
$37,200
Affordable Monthly Rent: $930
Estimated Utilities: $186
Maximum Affordable Housing Expense: $1,116
Target Savings To Move Out: $2,790
Note: Because you gave pre-tax numbers you need to use the salary-based calculator. If you want to double check, click No to the first question, Do You Have an Annual Salary? and go down to a section that calculated the max. affordable rent on after-tax take-home pay, which you need to input from your pay check stubs.
It looks like a safe rent zone to you is somewhere in the $900 a month range. Good luck!
How can i find and apartment when i make only 400 a month
Hi Elizabeth,
You really cannot afford your own place or even a roommate share on $400. Have you considered becoming a companion to an older person and getting a room in return of helping your “roommate” with some tasks, such as grocery shopping, or walking the dog.
Hope you are able to stay in your current place until you make more money or find a suitable alternative arrangement.
Good luck!
I receive a monthly income from social security once a month getting 1,236.00 every month what kind of apartment would i be able to afford.
Hi Camille,
Assuming you owe no taxes on your income, below is what our rent calculator says: max. affordable rent $433. Depending where in the country you live, you may be able to rent a small apartment with that, or at least share an apartment with a roommate.
Good luck!
Total per 2 pay period month: $1,236
Affordable Monthly Rent: $433
Estimated Utilities: $87
Maximum Affordable Housing Expense: $520
Target Savings To Move Out: $1,299
I get paid 598 twice a month sometimes over that but nothing less. what rent cost can I afford
Hi Karteka,
Check out our Affordable rent Calculator. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2015/09/rent-calculator/
See below how it calculated your max. rent of $419 a month, which most likely means that you look for a roommate share.
Good luck!
Do you have an annual salary? Yes No
Do you get paid weekly? Yes No
Do you get paid every other week or twice a month? Yes No
What was your after-tax pay last pay period?
$598
Previous pay period?
$598
Total per 2 pay period month: $1,196
Affordable Monthly Rent: $419
Estimated Utilities: $84
Maximum Affordable Housing Expense: $503
Target Savings To Move Out: $1,257
What advice can you give a person who looking for an apartment in she or she make 345 a week which adds to 1450/month. Is moving on he or her own going to be difficult because of this sort of income?
Serena,
Assuming that the salary you gave is after taxes. here is what our Affordable Rent Calculator says: your maximum affordable rent is $483. See below. Unless you live in a very affordable community, your salary level means that you need to look for a roommate share to start with, and move into your own place as your income increases.
Good luck to you from the MFA Team.
Do you get paid weekly? Yes No
What was your after-tax pay last week?
$345
Previous Week?
$345
Previous Week?
$345
Previous Week?
$345
Total after-tax pay for a 4 week month: $1,380
Affordable Monthly Rent: $483
Estimated Utilities: $97
Maximum Affordable Housing Expense: $580
Target Savings To Move Out: $1,449
So I have a question as well, since I don’t really understand what the formula you used means. Before taxes, I make about $555 a month, since I work 15 hours a week (I’m also in school) and make $9.25. My girlfriend, who makes $8 an hours, makes $480 per month before taxes. With that combined income, could we move into an apartment that costed $650 a month in rent? Split two ways that’s $325 a month, but it’s the cheapest apartment I’ve been able to find. I don’t know how much to expect to pay for electricity, I only know that internet will cost $20-$50 a month, depending on how fast we want our internet to be. And the rent of the apartment includes AC, water, and trash collection, I believe, and we’re both aiming to save up $2,500 before moving out.
Hi Susannah,
The short answer is no, you cannot afford $650 a month rent if you also have to cover all your normal living expenses, such as food.
Let’s say your electric and internet come $100 a month, or $50 each. Your total housing cost of $750 split two ways is $375. Even only taxes you pay are your portion of social security and medicare taxes or 7.65% of your pay (your employer pays the other half) and you qualify for free health insurance, your take-home after-taxes is $512 and your girlfriend’s is $443. After rent and utilities, you’ll have $137 a month or $34 a week and your gf has only $68 a month or $17 a week.
Right now, for you two an affordable apartment would rent for $300-350, or $150-175 each.
Your savings target is good, but you need to double your incomes before you can afford a $650 place.
Good luck from the MFA Team!
By using a simple formula, it’s possible to determine how much rent you can really afford. When looking for an apartment, affordability is definitely a consideration! Living within your means is an important part of building a stable future.