How Much Rent Can I Afford on My Hourly Pay?

2017 Update: You can download our new Printable Apartment Budgeting Worksheet and use it to estimate your rent and budget for all your expenses.

The basic target rent formula that landlord’s use is annual before-tax income divided by 40. When you are on a straight salary estimating the number is easy. However, if your are getting paid hourly, budgeting your maximum affordable rent is a bit more complicated and you have to factor in both your hours and hourly pay rate.  We have built a simple chart below that does the calculation for you at various hourly pay rates and weekly hours. This rough tool is based on the same landlord’s affordability formula: annual before-tax income divided by 40. (Note: We used in our chart a 50-week year, instead of 52 weeks, to leave a little margin of safety.)

You can also use our Affordable Rent Calculator if you want to estimate your target rent from your salary or your after-tax income, even if your income varies week by week. That calculator also estimates your utilities and amount you need to save before move.

The yellow highlighted cells below show an example of how to use the chart for someone working 35 hours a week at $20 an hour. You can also use the chart to quickly estimate your target rent if you are looking with a roommate who works different hours at different rate, by adding up each person’s target rent numbers.

hourly rent target

When you budget your actual expenses, keep in mind that you also need to plan for utilities (estimate at 20% of rent*, or $100 a month, whichever is higher) and all your other expenses (car loan, car insurance, student loan, cell phone, commuting, food, clothing, entertainment, etc.) In addition, you need to plan to save at least 3 times your target rent before your move, to cover first month’s rent, one month security deposit, other moving related costs and some furniture.

* If you live in a high-rent city (for example, NYC, Chicago, LA, SF) estimate utilities at 10% of rent.

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Author My First Apartment
MFA Editors

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Comments (626)

  1. Avatar Brian Hudspeth

    Dude this is just sad times we live in if I a grown adult make 25 a hour and can’t even afford a studio apartment wtf is the point in even trying man I’m really sick and tired of this bs

    Reply
  2. Avatar Ken Kostrna

    If I make $15.50 an hour can I afford an apartment with my brother who is making $13.00 an hour

    Reply
  3. Avatar Anonymous

    I make $35/ hour 40 hours/weekI def want to get a luxurious apartment. I will be living in LA. You have to make a lot more money than that to afford a really nice apartment in a safe area. I’ll use the budget sheet to calculate what I can afford to show me a realistic expectation. Work to live not live to work. I don’t want to get something so crazy expensive that I would not save any money. Looking forward to using the budget sheet.

    Reply
  4. Avatar Von

    I make 15$/Hr 40Hrs a week 275 for my car Note, 215 for car insurance 50 Phone bill other than that no real expenses except gas. What can i afford to start off with?

    Reply
  5. Avatar chris

    I make 16.35 and live about 20 minutes north of new orleans. I work a standard 40 hr week minus 1 hr for lunch so i guess its 35 work week. Is paying rent possible?

    Reply
  6. Avatar Michael DV

    I’m on child support fee. $600.00 a month and pay $150.00 a week. All I make 426 and 463 a week. That’s pretty tough man. Whole month rent is $440.00 sweet spot. Roommate room for rent, studio is $500 to 650. 1 bedroom is 600 to 700 a month. What else I can complain about it? Go bad area to get cheaper and not afraid to die. Shooting and murders don’t concern me. Protect yourself and take care yourself.

    Reply
  7. Avatar Austin Race

    I make 11.50 a week and I work 80 hours in two weeks fulltime, would I be able to afford to rent a $575 apartment with my boyfriend who will be offering up a little bit from how work studies?

    Reply
  8. Avatar Samantha Hernandez

    Hello,

    I’m trying to see what I can afford to pay in rent , I make $17.33 an hour in NJ.

    Only bills I have are ,

    Car insurance $290
    Phone bill $67

    Reply
  9. Avatar Damonay Bell

    Hey so I make $11 a hour and I work full time so 40 hours a week can I afford to $525 a month for and apartment . only thing I pay is a $65 phone bill . And if so the only I would have to pay for is electric everything else is included in the rent

    Reply
  10. Avatar JEAN KEOUGH

    we are being paid way below to afford rent and a vehicle and try to buy food and keep a child in college if i dont get overtime every single week im screwed i always fall behind and i got sick for month if my taxes did not hold us up that month we would have been evicted!! and i work 40hrs week net pay is approx 574.00 rent 1550 month car payment with ins 480.00 plus 4700 for every semester for my 20yrs old i just cannot keep up i go to work without money drive home praying i make it on my gas i dip into my rent to survive only to work 60hrs to pay it back and thats no guarantee !!! i had to let my credit cards fall behind no choice credit sux now my refrigerator is never full or freezer lets get real this is no way to live the landlords are all jumping on the ban wagon of pure greed 2 bed in my area dorchester is 2500 plus utilities really? and i did have 3 jobs ran me almost into the grave !!! i just dont see this ending or getting any better unfortunately …my daughter is always on the deans list she deserves to finish her college 1yr left and i just dont know how …just have no money cannot get loan….i dont know …there are no golden years my golden years were when i was young ….unless you are lucky to have money…

    Reply
  11. Avatar Nwalker

    Hi. I’m currently trying to move out.
    Car payment – 374
    Phone bill-119
    Car insurance- 281
    I’m located in Georgia and I make 14.50/HR
    Do think I could afford to move out. Or would be better to get a roommate.

    Reply
  12. Avatar antonio

    if you pay a car note, no you will need to get a second job or uber for a few hours a week.

    Reply
  13. Avatar Amanda Varela

    I make 11.50 an hr work 40 hrs a week can I afford and single family home which the rent is 750 and all utilities?

    Reply
  14. Avatar Kim

    I live in a small city where a 1 bedroom apartment starts at $999 a month… And that is in Manitoba where there is nothing exciting and rooms for rent start at $600 a month… I am currently on disability so it is hard enough to get a decent paying job even though I am not an idiot it is just my feet don’t like to work, How am I supposed to live off $800 a month for disability.

    I’ve read that Land lords have their building paid off within 4 years with these high rents. And it is just pushing more and more people out on the streets and when it can get as cold as -35 ‘C that is just dangerous.

    Reply
  15. Avatar Lea Smith

    I live ia College town rent is steep. 12.00 per hr is not enough for a place..No wander people are homeless in their cars or tents.
    All gose up but full time job wages

    Reply
  16. Avatar Robert Jackson

    I make 10$ a hour and work 40 hours a week
    I pay 60 $ for phone bill
    What is my price range for my own place

    Reply
  17. Avatar Lori

    I will be starting a new job @ $15hr in Kyle Texas. I am looking to move their, with 40hrs a week, how much rent for a 3 br would I be able to pay?

    Reply
  18. Avatar Lilly

    So basically a person needs to make more than $20 an hour and work a minimum of 40 hours per week. Rents are too expensive where I live & can not find a job making $20 an hour. I want to move but can’t afford it. I’m tired of living with my people. I want my own apartment. The only thing I can afford is a cardboard box living on the street.

    Reply
  19. Avatar Erin

    I work roughly 30 hours a week and make about $10 an hour. How much could I afford if I were to live with a roommate?

    Reply
  20. Avatar Lucia

    I make 15.65 hr / and work 48 hours a week I pay for bus rides right now
    What can I pay in rent “someone help thanks

    Reply
  21. Avatar Kaylea

    I work 80 hours every two weeks and my pay is $10.75 an hour. Would I be able to afford a $675 apartment?

    Reply
  22. Avatar Rachel

    I’m starting a new job on November 11th, it’s going to be 10$ an hour, 40 hours a week. Currently, I live with my husband and his parents, but we are talking about a divorce, and I am trying to figure out if I could potentially afford a place on my own with that income, by February of next year, 2020. My soon to be ex-husband is going to give me the car that is already paid off, so I will only have to pay for rent, food, cellphone, and gas.

    Reply
  23. Avatar M

    I make 21.55 an hour at 40 hrs a week. I also get guaranteed ot of 5hrs a week at time and half pay= $32.32.

    Currently my monthly bills come out to $513.

    Car: 250
    Insurance: 177
    Phone 86.

    Can i afford rent at 1600? I also have a savings

    Reply
  24. Avatar percypierce

    So making 12 dollars an hour and having 2000 dollars a month, I can’t afford a focking 980 or a 1000 dollar apartment? There’s no 600 dollar apartments anywhere! I don’t want a roommate! I have Schizoid personality disorder and i can’t make no friends! and I don’t like sharing!

    Reply
  25. Avatar Robynette

    I make 12.02 hr/ 38 hours. Apartment is 393, car note Is 270, car insurance is 65, and student Bills(600 split into $25). I get paid bi weekly, phone bill is 45. Can I afford my apartment?

    Reply
  26. Avatar Mamp

    Hi,
    I make $27.79/hr working 32 hrs a week. I get paid biweekly. Some of my expenses include
    Student loans $300
    Car insurance $230
    & other expenses that totals anywhere between $200-300
    Most 1br apartments around here are like $1000 & up (ridiculous)
    What’s the highest in rent you’ll recommend that will allow me to have money left over for extracurricular activities

    What’s

    Reply
  27. Avatar Aaron Skates

    I make 11.22 an hour and about 30 hours a week. Car insurance is 83, phone is 106, and 82 for student loans. My Girlfriend makes 14 an hour with 40 hours. How doable is 730 rent?

    Reply
  28. Avatar Deb

    My husband and I make 46000 a year and pay 560 dollars a month in rent Utilities included What percent of are income are we paying

    Reply
  29. Avatar Lorena

    I make 9.75 and work 40-48 hours a week. Could i afford 700$ rent? I have no car bills. and 60$ phone bill?

    Reply
  30. Avatar Mike

    I make 16.60 an hour. And I work 40-52 hours a week, but never under 40.
    I have a $120 dollar insurance bill,and a 30 dollar phone bill.
    I can’t estimate my gas, but my company reimburses 0.58 cents per mile of my gas, so it adds up.

    Reply
  31. Avatar Brendyn

    Hi, I currently make $11 an hour working 38 a week. I want to be able to get my first apartment by October. my phone bill is $60 a month and that’s all. avereage rent here for a 2 bedroom is between 1,100-1,400 how much should my roomate be making in order to be financially sound

    Reply
  32. Avatar Claire

    Hello,
    I work 40 hrs/wk at $12/hr. My car payment is $250, insurance $200 (welcome to Michigan), phone $120; I budget $200/month for groceries and $80/month for gas; monthly entertainment costs are around $35, and I would like to have a little bit of extra. The average 2 bedroom apt around here is around $800. How much do I need to be making an hour before I can afford a place?

    Reply
  33. Avatar Damian

    Hello I make $13 an hour 39 hours a week and my bills add up to $645 a month what could I afford for rent?

    Reply
  34. Avatar Ryan George

    I make 20 an hour. I get o.t often and can work every Saturday if I want. I’m an electrician In Orlando Florida. Rent here is insane. Please help

    Reply
  35. Avatar elyjah paisley

    i make 25hr living in nyc and feel hopeless…..how can i find cheap rent and car insurance??? on a 25hr budget living in ny….this is crazy

    Reply
  36. Avatar Mark Vincent Muriel

    Hello if i make 9/hr have a car insurance of 200 a mont entertainment for 20 a month can i afford $450 apartment

    Reply
  37. Avatar Heaven

    Hey, I looked at your sheet I work 55-60+ hours at a 9.75 dollar hour. Could I afford a apartment at 575$

    Reply
  38. Avatar Clay Hall

    Hi there! I make $15.00 hr and I work full-time, most times I get 1-5 hrs of overtime if that matters. I have an $80 phone bill and a $100+ auto insurance bill right now. Would I be able to afford an apartment at $1,000+ a month?

    Reply
  39. Avatar Pauline L

    Hello,

    I work 40.5 hours a week and I make $19 an hour as my starting pay rate.
    My city has become more and more expensive. Can I afford to move out? I am not willing to pay more than $600 a month in rent

    Here are my current monthly expenses:
    Gas- $250
    Hair care- $75
    Food- $250
    Car note (refinanced to $274.50)
    Car insurance- $162
    Job does not offer health care or 401k/Pension
    Phone- $52
    Entertainment (netlix/xbox/spotify)- $17
    Student loans- $109
    My credit cards will be paid off soon $200 balance, I usually carry a $0

    Reply
  40. Avatar Ashley

    I make $13 a hour 96 hours every two weeks , $216 car note $70 car insurance and $130 phone bill . Plus $245 cable bill can I afford an $725 a month apartment ?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Ashley,
      Use this budgeting worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to see what you could afford. It will be less than $725, because of your higher monthly bills. You need to get better deals for cable and phone to start with. Look for ways to cut the cable cord and go down to internet only plan and use Roku, or other streaming device for TV. You should be able to cut up to $200 a monthly in total from your cable and phone bills. Just call the companies and ask for better deal or leave for a competitor. Good luck!

      Reply
  41. Avatar Troy

    Hi I make $10 an hour with 35 hours a week and my girlfriend makes $7.75 with 30 hours do we make enough to rent anything together?!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Troy,
      You do not mention any other monthly bills you may have to pay, but if they are not very high (no car/student loans, etc.) then $700 range a month should be doable for you two. Take from the rent chart your 35 hours and $10/hr pay and the max rent is $438. Add to that your GF’s 30 hours at $7.75 which is a bit under $300, so combined you should be able to handle $700 rent. Use this budgeting worksheet to do a more detailed estimate. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Aim to have about $500 left a month after your fixed monthly bills for any other expenses and savings.
      Good luck!

      Reply
  42. Avatar Lashay

    Hi I make between $1,200 – $1,400 a month. The average rent out here is $800 and $900 for a 1 bedroom. I have $6,000 in savings. I spend about 40 a week on metro, $50 for my phone bill, $100 a month on groceries and the rest I spend on clothes and maybe a bar once a week ? Is this affordable

    Reply
  43. Avatar Kiya

    Hi, I currently make $12/hr and bring home 300-550 a check or 1,200-2,200 a month. My fiancé makes $15/hr and brings home 1,440 a month. Our max rent that we’ve been searching is $750. We have car insurance $500, groceries $330, gas $80, and phone $30. Can we afford to move ? We’re not moving until December and will have about $13,000-14,000 saves up. I’m worried we’ll struggle being full time students and all

    Reply
  44. Avatar Tomas Ramos

    Hi I get paid $9.00 an hour and I work for 10 hours straight for 3.days how much will I earn in my paycheck

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Tomas,
      We are not tax experts, but if you only work 3 days a week and have no other income, then the biggest tax that will be deducted from your pay check is your payroll tax. Your annual income will be slightly above the $12,000 standard deduction, so you may also owe a few dollars in federal income taxes and maybe a little state taxes. You will definitely pay 6.2% social security tax and 1.45% medicare tax, for a total of 7.65%. You will earn $9*10 hours*3 days =$270 less about $21 social security/medicare taxes = $249. Even after any state and federal income taxes, you should take home at least $240. Good luck!

      Reply
  45. Avatar Joseph Leonard Heyward Jr.

    I’m 25 in Tampa FL make about 9.25 an hour could I possibly even live alone in Tampa?

    Reply
  46. Avatar Tori

    Ok i make 14.25 an hr get paid every week..car note is 528 an my insurance is 293 a mth plus phone bill 80 dollars a mth gas to work is 40 dollars a week i have a 4 yr old son..can i afford 753 for rent?

    Reply
  47. Avatar Scott

    Hi I make 14$/hr and work 30/hrs a week phone paid by family looking at a place for 500$ can I do it.

    Reply
  48. Avatar Riley

    Hey, I currently live in Wisconsin with my parents and have a 40hr 11.17 job. I was wondering what Id be able to afford? Im having trouble finding any kind of average utilities… Any help be appreciated!

    Reply
  49. Avatar Shawn

    HI,

    I’m looking to move out on my own and my hourly pay is 12.16 an hour (when I get my check it totals 40 hours)I also have time and a half on Sunday’s (18.00) which I at least get once a month. My cell is 66.00 and my parents agreed to help me out and they’ll pay the car insurance. I have no credit cards (but was looking to get one for just paying my utilities every month and paying it off from next check) and internet is on auto pay. Is 600 rent workable for me?

    Reply
  50. Avatar Raquel

    Hello!
    Looking to move out on my own for the first time ever. I’ve always either lived with my parents or with a significant other. I get paid $15.85 an hour, 40 hours a week but I also travel for work and every month I usually get an extra $155-$182 a month depending on how much traveling I’ve done.
    My phone bill is usually $100, my gar insurance is $67 & my car payment is $372 a month.
    What do you believe is the smartest and best max rent I should look at including these expenses + utilities?
    (paystubs are usually always $1,018 on the stubs that added travel expense isn’t on. (monthly income usually $2191-$2218) also, I drive a Toyota Rav4 so gas is pretty reasonable.
    Thanks so much!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Raquel,
      First, we recommend that you estimate your rent target on your base pay and put all the travel extra pay to savings. Also, it is not clear if the $1018 take-home pay is every two weeks or twice a month. If it is every two weeks, then twice a year you have a 3 paycheck month.That third paycheck should also go to your savings. Based on your numbers, it looks like you could comfortably afford up to $600 a month in rent and still have enough left for discretionary spending and savings. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Monthly take-home pay 2036

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -600
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -120
      Car loan or lease payment -372
      Car Insurance  -67
      Gas -100
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -100
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -1699

      Cash left and Discretionary Spending 4.) 337
      Savings TRAVEL EXTRA PAY 155
      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 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.

      Reply
  51. Avatar Jenny

    Hi I make $15 hr, I work 40 hr weeks and my gross bi-weekly pay is $1,200.00 and after taxes I make $989.20 which equates to $1,978.40 monthly. I currently pay $382 for my car not, $352 for my car insurance, $117 for my cell phone, $80 monthly for gas, $13.99 for Hulu, $4.99 iTunes, and $44.95 for my health insurance. My credit cards are currently paid off and I have no student loans! What can I afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Jenny,
      Is your car insurance number for a month? It seems high, unless you have a terrible driving record.

      Reply
  52. Avatar Chris

    I make $10 hr 40 hrs week i pay 60 .Month for internet 140 for food i dont drive so no gas or car payments. 70 for phone month. What can i afford??

    Reply
  53. Avatar alejandra

    Hi! I make $11/hr at 40 hrs/week for my first job. Then second job I make $10/hr at around 13 hrs/week. Please help!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Alejandra,
      Try to base your rent target on your FT job and use the second job monies for savings and discretionary expenses. Based on $11/hr and 40 hrs, your max. target rent from the chart is $550, but because you have that second job you could probably safely push it up to $600. Use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to run your actual take-home income and expenses to see what rent makes best sense and still leaves you enough to enjoy your first apartment experience. Good luck!

      Reply
  54. Avatar melia

    Hello I make 14.60 soon 15 40hrs a week I’m looking for 1 bedroom only bill car 400 insurance 100 phone 50

    Reply
  55. Avatar Step O

    I make $18.26 annualized at 38,000. I bring home $1,100-1,200 every 2 weeks.
    monthly:
    Phone =90
    Car insurance&car note =288
    Gas=80
    Food=200
    Student loans=in process
    How much can I afford….

    Reply
  56. Avatar Tiffany McVay

    I bring in 400 per check ever 2 weeks after taxes 770 per month for child support 500 in back pay per month 17.12 a month til i finish paying off bg not wanting to renew bg pass wanting to leave home with family and move out on my own child still potty training 40 for pullups and 25 for wipes per mont so only thing going out is 40 in pullups 25 in wipes and 17.12 in bg pass how much do need for a place of my own

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Tiffany,
      It is a bit difficult to understand how your income breaks down, and what is bg pass?
      Anyway, assuming that you bring home $770 paycheck plus $500 child support each month, you would have hard time affording even $400 a month in rent after you pay for commuting to work, groceries, your cell phone and the baby’s expenses. It leaves you very little left over for discretionary expenses, such as clothing. We like to see about $400 a month and you have $80. See rough budget below. Please print out this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and fill it out with your actual income and expenses, so you can see what you can actually afford. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,270

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$400
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$80
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$400
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care pullups/wipes -$65
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,190

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $80
      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 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.

      Reply
  57. Avatar Olivia

    Hello!
    I’m 23 years old and ready to move out of my parents house later this year as I just secured a job paying me $23.19 an hour with occasional/optional overtime. By the time I will have paid off my credit card debts and my expenses will include:
    Student Loans: $400
    Phone: $50
    Car: $275
    These are what I know I’ll be paying however I haven’t factored in utilities or internet/cable as I’m not quite sure what the cost would be. Can you ball park the range my rent should be? How much can I afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Olivia,
      Based on the limited information you gave us, it looks like you could afford About $1,000 a month for rent. (We added other typical expenses that you did not mention.) This rent does not leave a lot of room for savings so use any overtime moneys to start a savings account. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $46,380
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$11,595
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $34,785
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,899

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$1,015
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$203
      Renter’s Insurance -$15
      Car loan or lease payment -$275
      Car Insurance  -$150
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$50
      Student Loans -$400
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,497

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $401
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $401
      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.

      Reply
  58. Avatar Michael Ziehfreund

    I make $19hr x 40hrs a week.
    I have $600 in total extra loan payments a month / phone is $80 a month.

    Sometimes I get some overtime, and I do get PTO.

    Thank you!!

    Reply
  59. Avatar Valeria

    Hi! I make 13$ an hour, I work 40hrs a week. my monthly payments are Car note 260, insurance 120, and phone 150. Can i afford to live with a roommate?

    Reply
  60. Avatar Angel A Ortiz

    I make 12 an hour i dont have to pay car im looking for a one bedroom apartment whats my range?

    Reply
  61. Avatar Damian

    I make 11.50$ an hour and get paid around 700 every 2 weeks and my car is paid off what would likely be a good apartment for me

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Damian,
      You did not tell what other fixed monthly bills you may have, so it’s hard to estimate. Assuming some typical expense levels, you might be able to handle rent in the $400 range, which indicates a roommate share. If your car insurance is much less than the average and you are a frugal cook, you might be able to get the rent target up to $500. Try to leave room in your budget for some savings to build an emergency fund. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary $11.50*40*50 $23,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$5,750
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $17,250
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,438

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$400
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$80
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  -$150
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,100

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $338
      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 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.

      Reply
  62. Avatar Briana Yvette

    Hey,

    I make $20 an hour on 35 hr work week and i have a cell phone of $30-$40 a month, Verizon bill $150-$200 a month or $130-$150 every 2wks if I’m able and no car right now. My work expenses via commute tally roughly $70 a week. For to n from. What do you think is reasonable and affordable with that breakdown?

    Thanks,
    B

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Brianna,
      It’s a little unclear what all your fixed expenses are, so double check all the numbers below. How we understand your numbers, it looks like you could afford around $750 rent and still have money for savings and discretionary spending. Good luck.

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $35,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$8,750
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $26,250
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,188

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$766
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$153
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Commuting -$70
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone & Verizon -$240
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,569

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $619
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $219
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $400
      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.

      Reply
  63. Avatar Nicole

    I make $11 an hour and it is literally impossible to find any apartment in my area for less than $600 monthly, lol

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Nicole,
      Many, maybe even most first apartments are roommate shares, so explore that route. Or, stay with your family until your pay improves. Good luck!

      Reply
  64. Avatar Tyler

    Hey I make $10.30 a hour. Around $680 every 2 weeks. My phone bill is 50 a month my phone car is $80 a week & insurance is $115.70 a month. How much you think I can afford on apartment

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Tyler,
      If we understood your expenses correctly, as long as your car loan, insurance and gas costs are almost $500 a month, you cannot move out until your income increases. See below. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $20,600
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$4,120
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $16,480
      Monthly take-home pay $1,373

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent @ 35% -$481
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$96
      Car loan or lease payment $80*4 -$320
      Car Insurance  -$115
      Gas -$50
      Commuting $125/mo
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone & Verizon -$50
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,452

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$78
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car -$78
      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.

      Reply
  65. Avatar Aiyanna Bethune

    Hi, I work 40 hours a week while making $11 an hour! Only payments I have to pay right now is my phone bill that is $60 a month and car insurance that is $184, would I be able to afford a place between $500-700 rent..

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Aiyanna,
      It looks to us that $500 rent will be tight if you want to have some money for savings and discretionary expenses and $700 is clearly out of your range. If this is your first apartment, maybe look into a roommate share to start with. Double check the numbers below. 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 (above /12) $1,558

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$500
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$100
      Car loan or lease payment Paid
      Car Insurance  -$184
      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
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,234

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $324
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $156
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $169
      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.

      Reply
  66. Avatar Jay

    Hi my name jay I make 10$ an hour and an 50$ phone bill my car is payed off my gas is about 20$ how much rent I can afford monthly

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Jay,
      Depending on your car insurance expense (we estimated $150/mo.) and any other bills you may have, rent in the $500 range should be doable for you. See below, but double check all the numbers with your actual take home pay and expenses. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $20,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$3,000
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $17,000
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,417

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$496
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$99
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  -$150
      Gas -$20
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$50
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,115

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $302
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $142
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $160
      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.

      Reply
  67. Avatar Antonio

    Hi I make $15.25/hr , how much rent can I afford ?

    My car note is $276/m almost fully paid off as well
    Insurance $190
    Phone $50
    Student loans $20/month almost fully paid off as well

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Antonio,
      Wait until your car loan is paid off. With that loan, you can hardly afford $500 a month, without the loan you’ll move into $600-$700 range. Just make sure you build up a emergency fund, so you don’t get into trouble if your car needs repairs. Double check the numbers below. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $30,500
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$7,625
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $22,875
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,906

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$667
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$133
      Car loan or lease payment Paid
      Car Insurance  -$190
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$50
      Student Loans -$20
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,451

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $456
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $191
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $265
      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.

      Reply
  68. Avatar Ty

    Hello! I make 14.50/hr this isn’t my first apartment but it will be my first apartment alone, so need help figuring out the price range i should Be looking at.

    Reply
  69. Avatar Cris

    Hi. So first time trying to move out since mom wants me to do my own thing. I work 35-40 hrs a week $12 hr biweekly. I only pay for gas, car is paid off and a small loan of $60 a month, cell phone is already getting paid by family. Can I afford anything at this time?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Cris,
      Your mom is right. Moving out and living on your own is a big step on your “adulting” journey, it will teach many life lessons. Because your car is paid off and your family pays for your phone, you can probably afford a rent in the $500-$600 range. It might mean a roommate share, which is how many young adults start their independent life.
      Use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to estimate with real numbers what rent would still leave you about $400 a month for discretionary expenses plus something for savings. Don’t over-reach on rent because that often leads to filling the gaps with credit cards and creates a long term problem. Good luck!
      P.S. Before you move out, ask your mom to teach you some basic cooking skills, if you don’t have any yet.

      Reply
  70. Avatar Chelsea

    MY Husband makes 14 per hour with 40 hrs a week minimum. NO Car note, a two year old son and our phone bills come up to 110 altogether.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Chelsea,
      We added to the budget estimate some typical expenses car insurance, gas, groceries, etc. With these it looks like you could target rent in the $600-$700 range. Make sure you leave some room in your budget for savings, targeting over time to build an emergency fund of 3-months worth of expenses. Double check the numbers with this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $28,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$4,200
      Less: Other deductions
      Estimated annual take-home pay $23,800
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,983

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$650
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$130
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  -$150
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$110
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,600

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $383
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $198
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $185
      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.

      Reply
  71. Avatar Candice

    Hi, I make $15.50 an hour with 38-40 hours per week. I pay $120 for insurance, $200 car payment, $350 in student loans. Am I able to afford $750-$800 with my other bills?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Candace,
      Based on the chart, your max rent is somewhere in the $750 range, but you cannot afford that (see below). Between your car and student loan expenses, your rent budget will be much lower. Us this budgeting worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ , starting with your actual income, to see what rent leaves you enough money after all your other bills are paid to cover such discretionary items as clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc. Ideally, we like to see at least $90-$100 a week after all “musts” are paid and 10% of your income is put into savings. It looks to us that you’ll be starting out in a roommate share, like so may of new grads. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $31,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$7,750
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $23,250
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,938

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$750
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$150
      Car loan or lease payment -$200
      Car Insurance  -$120
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans -$350
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,040

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$103
      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 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.

      Reply
  72. Avatar Vanessa Borgelin

    Hi, I make $9.50 an hour and work 20-25 hours a week. I get paid weekly and I plan on moving with 2 other roommates soon. My monthly expenses are:

    car insurance: <$145
    gas: $36
    credit card bill: $25 min

    I live with my parents so I don't pay for groceries as of yet. But I'd like to know how much can I afford for rent with the income I make. Thank you!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Vanessa,
      Use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to estimate what would be a comfortable rent level. Average your last 3 months of actual income and expenses and use those numbers as a starting point. With the few numbers you gave, and assuming sharing groceries with roomies, it looks like in the lower income months you’ll have hard time making ends meet and could be tempted to fill in with your credit card. That would just build a future problem. Can you stay with your parents until you can get more steady hours at work? Or maybe your parents are already eyeing your room for a new den and are willing to subsidize your rent. It’s been known to happen! Anyway, good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $9,500
      Less: Estimated taxes 10% (see below 2.) -$950
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $8,550
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $713

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$249
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$50
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  -$145
      Gas -$36
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$200
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards -$25
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$705

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $7
      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 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.

      Reply
  73. Avatar Moe

    Hello, i make $19.50 hr and work 40hrs/week. Paid by weekly. Monthly expenses are

    Auto insurance – $140
    Loan – $105
    Cell phone – 75
    Internet – 75

    Could i afford rent at $775 ?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Moe,
      The answer is yes, you can afford it. But double check the numbers below by using this budgeting worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $39,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$9,750
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $29,250
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,438

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$775
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$155
      Car loan or lease payment -$105
      Car Insurance  -$140
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$75
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills -$75
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,715

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $723
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$244
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $479
      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.

      Reply
  74. Avatar Fionna

    OK so I make 12 an hour at 34-42 hours per week. My checks average at around 367 per week. My car payment is 244$, insurance 147$, food runs about 250$, and phone is 100$ even. Can I afford 775$ a month?

    Reply
  75. Avatar 1181rose .

    Ok so I make 28.50 hourly according to this chart I can afford 1400 dollars rent but that’s one whole check(net pay). I get paid every 2 weeks. So from my other check I have to pay food, utilities, internet don’t need cable, cell, transportation for subway, I want to save money, and have money to spend. Is this doable? For reference I live in NYC

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Rose,
      The formula gives you the maximum you could pay with other typical expenses. Use this worksheet to estimate what you could pay, including your savings target. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Living in NYC, you pay more for rent that you would in smaller cities, but on the plus side you don’t need a car that would cost a lot more than $125 or so your monthly Metrocard costs. Another plus for NYC is that there are million things you can do that are free. Good luck!

      Reply
  76. Avatar William

    If I make 11.80 a hour work 40 hours a week making 1,360 a month only expensise are phone 97 food 100 insurance 116 gas 50 and the apartment is 540 a month utilities included can I afford the apartment

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi William,
      It will be very tight, but because you do not have other big bills it may be doable. We are a little suspicious that you can eat and cover groceries for a month for $100, unless all your eat is rice and beans and Ramen. Double check your numbers, to make sure you did not forget anything. Use 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 1360

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -540
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -108
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  -116
      Gas -50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -100
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -97
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -1011

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) 349
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) 136
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car 213
      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.

      Reply
  77. Avatar Parie

    I make 22hr and guarantee 36hr (max 40) a week. Bills: carnote 370
    Insurance 130
    Cc 200
    Phone 60
    Student loan 129

    Can I afford an apartment 893 a month?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Parie,
      No, you cannot. Between your car costs, credit cards and student loan, you can afford no more than $650-$700 rent and still have enough money left for discretionary expenses. Even then you cannot save much for an emergency fund. We like to see at least $90-$100 a week left after all the essential expenses are paid. Use this worksheet to double check the numbers. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $39,600
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$9,900
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $29,700
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,475

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$893
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$179
      Car loan or lease payment -$370
      Car Insurance  -$130
      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 -$129
      Credit Cards -$200
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,351

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $124
      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 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.

      Reply
  78. Avatar Monae

    Hi, I make 14/hr and I’m wanting to rent a apartment for $655. Will I be able to afford rent and the following expenses
    Car note $321
    Insurance $199
    Gas $50
    Savings $100
    Internet $45
    Utilities $130

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Monae,
      The answer is no. See below. You are using your rent money for your car. Use this budgeting worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to double check the numbers. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $28,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$5,600
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $22,400
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,867

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$655
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$175
      Car loan or lease payment -$321
      Car Insurance  -$199
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,820

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $47
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $100
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car -$53
      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.

      Reply
  79. Avatar Rose

    Hi, I make 13/hr and usually work 30-35 hours a week and am trying to rent out a room for $850. Is that reasonable?

    The only expense I have is food which I probably spend around $300 a month on, I do have a laptop bill of $262 a month but that’s ending in December. I don’t have a car so no gas and I prefer to walk most places but I guess if I had to take the bus that’d probably be around $90 a month

    Reply
  80. Avatar Alanna

    I work for a state agency in South Carolina and make $30,359 a year. How much rent could I afford based on my following expenses:
    Car payment: $244.79
    Car insurance: $164.24
    Phone bill: $40
    CC: $28 or more every month (every check)
    I have not yet started paying back student loans
    What would I have left over?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Alanna,
      Based on your expenses your rent target should be in the $600-$650 range. See below.
      Double check your actual numbers using this worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/.
      Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $30,359
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$6,072
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $24,287
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,024

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$650
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$130
      Car loan or lease payment -$245
      Car Insurance  -$164
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$40
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards -$28
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,647

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $377
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $377
      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.

      Reply
  81. Avatar Eliana

    I’m planning to move out soon but don’t know what price range for rent to look at. I make $15/hour plus about 5 hours or more of overtime every week. Don’t have much expenses, car is paid off

    My expenses:
    Car insurance: $50
    Phone payment: $35 ( parents pay phone bill)
    Internet: $60 Max ( theoretically)
    Gas: $80
    Food: $125

    Reply
  82. Avatar Aisha

    Hi, my name is Aisha and I make 13.00/HR and I get 54 hours a week aside from all of those hours I alose receive commission ( I am leasing consultant ) so for every apartment I get is 75$ so if for September I get 8 move ins ( which is my average amount of move ins ) that’s 600$ added to my first check of october normal hourly check so the commission plus my regular check will always be my first check of the month. can I afford a 850 rent?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Aisha,
      You did not give us enough information about your other expenses, so we assumed that you use public transportation and have no debt.
      If that’s the case, you can easily afford that $850 on your salary alone, without having to rely on commissions that can vary. Check the numbers using this worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ In general we recommend that you find a rental you can pay for on your salary alone, without bonuses, and put any extra income into savings. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $35,100
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$8,775
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $26,325
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,194

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$850
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$170
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,565

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $629
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $219
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $409
      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.

      Reply
  83. Avatar Reagan

    Hi, I currently make 15.00 per hour at 40 hours a week. I have no car payment, student loans are about 77 per month. 150 dollars for food every month. Car insurance is 96 per month. My sister pays my phone bill but I burn about 270$ in gas every month. Apartments around my area run for about 1000-1100. Could I realistically move out now?

    Reply
  84. Avatar Fen

    Hi! I was wondering if you could tell me if I could afford $700 rent on a job paying minimum wage. I won’t be using cable, or paying any fees besides internet and public transportation as I don’t have a car and don’t intend to get one any time soon. I have a cat who will be staying with me, which might add extra expenses, but not much I don’t think. Thank you, looking forward to your reply!

    ~Fen

    Reply
    • Avatar Fen

      I forgot to mention, I made this graph; do you think it’s realistic?

      $1400 monthly pay if $12hr
      Average $700 rent
      $745 left over from rent
      $200 groceries for next month
      $200 other necessities like clothes and cat sand (save what I don’t use in emergency fund)
      $50 internet
      $50 for fun (Spotify, movies, fairs, vacations)
      $200 emergency fund

      Reply
  85. Avatar Marie

    I’m looking to relocate to the Philadelphia area. Potential job offer starts at 40$ per hour. It is a full time position at a hospital . I am a single girl in my mid 20s. Id like to continue to put 10% of my salary toward a 401k as well as saving around $300 per paycheck . I pay $400 per month for phone car insurance and to help care for my mom . Most rents I’m finding around around $1700 per month for a 900 square foot apartment with renter being responsible for all utilities . Is it realistic to think with utilities I would be spending around $2100 per month. Would this be something I could afford this ?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Marie,
      First, congratulations for picking a high-paying profession. With your potential for high income it looks like that $1,700 apartment is well within your means. See below. However, double check all your numbers with this budgeting worksheet
      https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and make sure you include all your expenses. You did not mention how much savings you have but realistically you’ll need about $5,000 to cover all your move related expenses. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $80,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$20,000
      Less: Other deductions (10% to 401K) -$8,000
      Estimated annual take-home pay $52,000
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $4,333

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$1,700
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$340
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  ?
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills -$400
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,830

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $1,503
      Savings (target $300/paycheck) $600
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $903
      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.

      Reply
  86. Avatar Samantha

    I work 40 hrs a week but I’m cutting it down to 30. I currently pay 740 a month in rent all utilities included but it’s a room that I rent. I make 13.50/hr I pay 75 for my phone bill with no other expenses. If you add in food what apartment can I afford ?

    Reply
  87. Avatar Kane

    So I see you use 35% of take home pay for rent then add utilities. Would it be accurate to assume 40% of take home for rent and utilities combined? Or if not is there a combined % for both?

    Either way love the app very helpful!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Kane,
      According to our research, utilities range from 10% to 20% of rent, so if you want to adjust our max. rent percentage to include utilities, the range would be 38.5% to 42%. The lower number would apply to apartments in large rental buildings where heat, trash collection, cooking gas and water are usually included in rent. If you are renting in a suburban development, use the higher number because more utilities (such as water and heating) are metered and paid separately. Happy you like the app.

      Reply
  88. Avatar Alex

    I currently make $14.50/hr and work approximately 84-86 hours a week (the extra hours are overtime) I have $100 in student loans, $220 for car insurance no car note . My dad pays cell phone. I would say $200 for groceries .I have $5000 saved up. about $50 for gas / month . I would like to have the internet as well . Could I afford an apartment for $650-700 a month?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Alex,
      It looks like up to $700 would be doable for you, but before you run to sign a lease double check your numbers using this worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. You have built a nice savings account. Make sure you don’t over-extend on rent so that you have to start making up shortfalls from your savings. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $29,580
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$7,395
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $22,185
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,849

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$700
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$140
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  -$220
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$200
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone
      Student Loans -$100
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,450

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $399
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $185
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $214
      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.

      Reply
  89. Avatar Alex

    I currently make 14.50 and work approximately 84-86 hours a week (that extra hours are time

    Reply
  90. Avatar Austin Louis biglow

    I make 585 a week but I bring home 392 a week and I have 367 car payment and 94 dollar phone bill what can I afford for an apartment

    Reply
  91. Avatar Haley

    Hi. I work 2 jobs and bring around 700-800 home every 2 weeks. My fiancé works 40 hours (sometimes more) a week at 13/hr. The only bills I have are my car insurance at $120 a month and gas (around $20 a week) and he pays the phone bill at $200 a month and his insurance around $100. I was just curious of our price range in case we wanted to move out together.

    Reply
  92. Avatar Will

    Making $17/hr, working 40 hour weeks. Currently looking at $174.58 each month for car insurance, but it’s due every 6 months = totals to $1047.48. On the chart I see the max affordable rent is $850, so I have been hunting places for that price. Will also have to start paying cell phone bills. How tight will living on my own will be making $17/hr?

    Reply
  93. Avatar Brandon

    I’m looking at an apartment in Charlotte, NC. It’s $809/monthly. My total bills are approximately $1162 (excluding rent). I’ve factored in utilities and all living costs in this number. My only concern is looking at the $809. I make $18.25 / hourly @ a steady 40 hour week. I have monthly bonus incentives but choose not to include as it’s not guaranteed. Is this feasible?

    Reply
  94. Avatar Raymond

    Looking for a apartment for myself i make 18.20hr work 40hrs a week. Found a 1 bedroom for $1000 furnished heat and hot water included. hard to find anything cheaper in my city.
    car insurance is $120
    Phone is $140
    Mma gym is $150
    I have 10k saved

    Reply
  95. Avatar AJ blount

    Looking at apartments for a family of 3 (wife and 18month old) on a single income. $23.66/hr moving to $27.12/hr guaranteed (signed contract for attended school. Work 40 hrs min so my check is about $720 on 40, normally work 50+ at 1.5x OT (not always though). So often I get $1000-1200 checks after taxes.

    I’ve found a few at $800, can I afford that?

    $390 car loans
    $210 car insurance
    $176 phone bill
    $35 union dues
    $150 in gas (work all around the state)
    $100 give or take for the young ones necessities
    Stay at home mom so there’s no child care bill
    Hopefully I’m not forgetting anything. Thanks.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi AJ,
      To be conservative, we estimated your income on current pay and 40 to see if that rent worked even if you got no overtime. The good news is, it’s close enough. See below. You will have extra flexibility from overtime and when you get your increase you can start pushing your savings up. You should be able to put at least 10% into savings plus take advantage of any retirement savings plan your employer offers. If there is a 401K plan make sure you save enough to get maximum match. Double check all the numbers using this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) ($23.66 at 40 hr/wk) $47,320
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$11,830
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $35,490
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,958

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$800
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$160
      Car loan or lease payment -$390
      Car Insurance  -$210
      Gas -$150
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$176
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care/ expenses -$100
      Other fixed bills – union dues -$35
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,531

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $427
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $296
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $131
      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.

      Reply
  96. Avatar Cheyenne

    I’m currently looking at an apartment that is under $600 a month. I am currently at $9/hour and anywhere from 32-40 hours a week. I get paid every 2 weeks and bring home anywhere from $420-$520. I have no car payment or insurance as my parents pay for that I just have to worry about gas, credit card payment of about $50 per month but I pay a little extra, I also have a small school loan that I pay monthly so that’s $88, a gym membership at $40 a month which I am planning on canceling when I move and a phone bill of $48 every month. Gas for me is normally about $25-$30 per week but should come down after I move as I am trying to get closer to work. An really rough idea for utilities would be $140 in my area that is water, electric, and heating and air. I believe it would be a little lower for me but just rounding up to be safe. Do you think it would be a good idea?

    Reply
  97. Avatar Makayla

    Looking for an apartment, I’m a Shift Lead at beans and brews making 8 an hour with a possible promotion to 11.50 as an assistant manager. I make 5 dollars an hour in tips (regular). I will be going to school up at the U. I do have a car but I don’t need to take on the payments for a bit. Could I afford rent in the 700-800 range? I will mostly be taking trax but I get that for free.

    Reply
  98. Avatar Loni Smith

    Hello. I’m 23 looking to move into my first apartment. I just started a new job and make 15.86/hour, 40 hours per week. I have a $319/ month car note, $170 car insurance & $109 phone bill. I also have to consider a pet deposit and pet rent for a small dog. Is it a good idea financially to move out now?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Loni,
      Double check the numbers, but realistically you can only afford a roommate share. It’s those pesky car expenses that eat up your rent budget. If you don’t have to move, stay put and save a nice nest egg while you wait for your income to go up a bit, or you can trade down or no longer need that car. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $31,720
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$7,930
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $23,790
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,983

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent (35% of take-home) -$500
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$100
      Car loan or lease payment -$319
      Car Insurance  -$170
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$109
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills – pet
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,588

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $395
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $198
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $196
      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.

      Reply
  99. Avatar Elle

    hi there i will be staying a new job at 28/hr and will be working a minimum of 40 hrs a week. after i pass one more registry i will earn 29/hr.

    will i be able to afford 908 rent?
    with 294 car payment monthly
    200 credit card bill monthly
    200 dog walker bill monthly
    food?
    renters insurance?
    and utilities?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Elle,
      Looks like you’ll be able to afford $908 comfortable, but double check all the numbers. Try to pay that credit card balance off while you are in a good financial shape. With your good income, there is no reason to keep that balance rolling over month-to-month. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $56,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$14,000
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $42,000
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $3,500

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$908
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$182
      Car loan or lease payment -$294
      Car Insurance  -$150
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards -$200
      Child care
      Other fixed bills – pet -$200
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,404

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $1,096
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $350
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $746
      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.

      Reply
  100. Avatar Sara

    Hello, I am 29 years old and have never lived on my own. I’m looking to move out to be closer to work as I have an 80 mile round trip commute daily, but I’m really worried about expenses. I make $15.19/hr and I work 40 hours a week. I bring home about $870 every two weeks after taxes and 401K deductions. I have a car payment of $290/mo, I have about $1500 in credit cards which I pay about $100 total each month. As for other expenses I have are my cell phone $60/mo, and car insurance $75/mo. I just have one dog and myself that would be living alone. I have a small savings account, probably about $3000.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sara,
      We are happy to hear that you are putting money into your 401K and it would a shame if you could not afford to do it after you move. As you see from the rough numbers below, at this time you can probably only afford a roommate share on your income and expenses and even that is tight. Why don’t you stay where you are and pay off your credit card debt before you move. Your car expenses are also high compared to your income but with your long commute you need a reliable car. We have no idea how much rents are in your area,
      but in most markets you’d probably have to also trade down your car, if you want to live alone. $3,000 in savings will pay your initial expenses and get you settled in, but you need to continue saving for an emergency fund after your move. If you pay off your debt and continue saving, you are probably in a good shape to move in 3-6 months. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Monthly take-home pay 1740

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -450
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -90
      Car loan or lease payment -290
      Car Insurance  -75
      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 -100
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -1455

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) 285

      Reply
  101. Avatar Danielle

    Hello. I’m looking into getting my first apartment. I plan on getting a car but no car payments, just car insurance and gas. I make 14.00 per hour and get paid bi-weekly (80 hours). The place I’m looking at is $725 in rent. I have 1 toddler and her father said he would give me $100 towards rent and we split daycare payments ($48 per week). My phone bill is $50 per month and two credit cards that I pay on. Would I be ok to move out? I do have a savings account as well.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Danielle,
      It will be very tight, even without the credit card payments, which you did not quantify. Please double check all the numbers and make any corrections. You should target to have at least $100 a week left for discretionary spending after paying all your bills. Being a single mom is a challenge, so we are happy to see that the dad is pitching in. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $28,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$4,200
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $23,800
      Monthly take-home pay/12 $1,983

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent (35% of take-home) -$625
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$125
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  -$150
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$50
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care -$192
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,682

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $301
      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 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.

      Reply
  102. Avatar JC

    Hello I live in Jacksonville FL I make 11.91 an hour. I work nightshift and get a dollar more due to differential pay and a dollar more on weekends. I average about 72 hours with out Overtime.
    My expenses are
    Car payment 370
    Car insurance 150
    Phone bill 149
    Gas 20
    Pet food 21.49
    Where would be able to rent alone?would you reccomend a roomate

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi JC,
      You have decided to put your rent money into your car, so you really cannot move out yet. Most likely, even a least expensive roommate share is out of your reach right now, unless you plan to survive on a 100% Ramen diet. Even if you could find a $350 roommate share, you’d still have only $10 or so left for discretionary expenses each week. See below. Save money, and wait until your income picks up, before you move out. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $21,438
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$3,216
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $18,222
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,519

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$350
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$70
      Car loan or lease payment -$370
      Car Insurance  -$150
      Gas -$20
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$149
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills -$21
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,470

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $49

      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.

      Reply
  103. Avatar Briley

    Hi my name is briley and I currently make 13/HR and I work 38 hours a week sometimes 40 I am looking at a 750 a month apartment can I afford it?

    Reply
    • Avatar Briley

      Oh and I pay no other expenses not even my phone bill lol my phone bill is paid for through credit from my phone company for up to a year I have a son although daycare is paid for through CCIS and I currently receive EBT benefits for food

      Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Briley,
      It’s really tight, but you could probably do with all the help you receive currently, if you know how to live frugally. You’d need to have at least $2,500 saved before you can cover your initial moving expenses, first month rent, security deposit and some basic furniture. Look at the estimate below and make any corrections. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $24,700
      Less: Estimated taxes 10% (see below 2.) -$2,470
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $22,230
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,853

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$750
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$150
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,535

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $318

      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.

      Reply
  104. Avatar Brian

    I live in Canada and am currently making 41800 a year. I have no car, no student loan, and no dependents. I have pretty much all the entertainment I will ever need. Unfortunately, I live in a rather expensive city, and I am looking to move closer to my workspace downtown without actually living downtown. I would like to live alone if at all possible.

    What would you say is a reasonable monthly rent?

    Thank you!

    Reply
  105. Avatar Shaneika

    I make $10 an hour working 30-35 hours. I’m looking at an apartment no more than 550 a month. My cellphone bill is 55 month and my credit card bill is 35 month. My car is owned and my dad pays the insurance. Can I afford it? I’m not sure how much utilities would be, but lets assume $125-160.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Shaneika,
      It does not look like you are in a position to afford your own place at this time. (We did this on 30-hour week, because rent is due regardless how many hours you work.) A roommate share would be a better option to start with. See below what other typical expenses you need to budget for when you live on your own.
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $15,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$2,250
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $12,750
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,063

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$550
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$110
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$55
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards -$35
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,215

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$153

      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.

      Reply
  106. Avatar Joce

    Hi, I make about 600 each paycheck after taxes and make 14.40 an hour and then on the weekend I make 15.35. 4 hours on Friday it’s 14.40 and then the rest of my shifts it’s 15.35 I work 24 hours a week and I can work more if I want too. I pay for phone bill and car insurance and that’s about $200. Looking for places is about 775-850. Can I afford that? Thanks.

    Reply
    • Avatar Joce

      Oh I forgot to add I would share the apartment with someone and split rent. Thanks people pls help.

      Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Joce,
      Looks like $800 range rent is doable for you, but double check all the numbers below. Most of that $3500 savings will be gone to rent, security deposit and initial apartment expenses, so you need to start rebuilding your savings after you move in. The good news is that with your relatively low expenses that should be OK. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,400

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$840
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$168
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  -$150
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$50
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,598

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $802
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $240
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $562
      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.

      Reply
  107. Avatar Carla

    Hello, looking to move in apartment ranged $675-700 1 bedroom. I Make 12.50 an hr 40 hours a week, paid weekly, car insurance is 264, 13 dollar health insurance, gas about 20 dollars that lasts up to 2 weeks. Dont hardly buy groceries maybe fast food every day.I spend about 164 dollars on food a month. and phone bill comes to $65-75. Thats it, just a single lifestyle no kids no spouse.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Carla,
      First, learn to cook. It’s cheaper and healthier that fast food.
      It looks like you need to boost your income another $300 or so a month to cover all your expenses and have enough left over for some entertainment, clothing and other discretionary expenses. Double check the numbers to see if anything is missing. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $25,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$5,000
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) -$676
      Estimated annual take-home pay $19,324
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,610

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$675
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$135
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  -$264
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$70
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,534

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $76

      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.

      Reply
  108. Avatar Morgan C Moore

    Hi i make 16 an hour work about 85 hours bi weekly, car payment 425 insurance 159 phone 40 daycare will be cut out soon. Can i afford 1200 a month 2 bedroom.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Morgan,
      We are assuming that there are two in the family. If that is the case, $1,200 is far too much in light of all your other expenses, including typical expenses for food. Double-check the numbers and see what changes you need to make. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $34,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$6,800
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $27,200
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,267

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$793
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$159
      Car loan or lease payment -$425
      Car Insurance  -$159
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$40
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,136

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $131

      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.

      Reply
  109. Avatar Jennifer

    Hello! I am in a bit of a hard place right now. I have a fiancee that lives out of the country and as a requirement for him to come to the U.S. I need to have an apartment to prove he would not be a public charge. I’m looking into a much better job (hope I get it), it would pay at minimum $13 an hour and an average of 37 hours a week. My current job I get paid $9.50 an hour and average 38-39.5 hours a week. My paychecks are bi-weeky and usually are $545 give or take a few. I do not have a phone bill to pay ( my family pays it) and I pay car insurance semi-annually (about $625). What is a comfortable monthly rent with my current pay and a possible pay? Thank you :)

    Reply
    • Avatar Jennifer

      Also as a side note, I would absolutely need internet which is about $40 a month

      Reply
  110. Avatar Dan

    I am looking to move out this year whether I get a better job or not.(though it’s likely) However I was curious with my current rate and hours where I’d be at. I make 11.25 and hour and do around 40 a week. I don’t drive so no car payments, gas money or insurance. The apartment I’m looking into is 625. Using the information listed, I added 125 for utilities. My phone bill is about 100 and I include about 300 for food. I do not pay for health insurance. I don’t use cable either. Could I afford the apartment at 625?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Dan,
      Do you know how to shop and cook? Do you bring lunch to work? You don’t have much leeway if you pay $625 rent, so you have to learn to live frugally. Are you up to watching every dollar and sweating the rent due day? More manageable rent for you would be in the $500-$550 range. Double check all the numbers below to make sure they are reasonable. On the other hand, maybe having your own place will inspire you to boost your income. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $22,500
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$3,375
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $19,125
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,594

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$625
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$125
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$100
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,315

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $279
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $159
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $119
      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.

      Reply
  111. Avatar Kristy

    Hello I make $14 an hour and get 40 hours a week . I have no kids n I only pay my phone bill which is $85 .i don’t have a car yet can I get an $700 apartment

    Reply
  112. Avatar Mariah Thomas

    Hello, I’m Mariah. i make 8.95 an hour, paid by weekly in two weeks i have worked 80 hours. i’m seeing 600 and something dollar checks i need and apt for my 3 year old and my 6 month old. can i afford 700 dollar rent?

    Reply
    • Avatar Olando Fuller

      You need a based on income apartment. It may not be the best neighborhood but its the best for your pocket. Try to save $20 every check and cut out things like snacks, or cigs if you smoke. Look for a cheaper cell phone plan. Then ask God to give you a better life all around. Be blessed.

      Reply
    • Avatar christian andrew lopez

      You can afford no more than $450 a month for rent. Its going to be very hard for you to make it especially with 2 kids. Where are you working mcdonalds? Find a warehouse or factory to work at nearby. You will make $12-$13 an hour and there is opportunity for overtime.

      Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Mariah,
      If you bring home after taxes about $1,200 a month and have two children to cloth and feed there is no way you could afford $700 in rent. First, you need to have money for transportation to work, then you need money for food and childcare. You have to pay someone to take care of the children when you are working. Print out this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and put in it all your expenses. It will tell you how much is left to cover rent and utilities.
      You should check out with your local housing services to see if you qualify for rent help. Good luck!

      Reply
  113. Avatar Rainae

    I make $25/hr for 32-40 hours a week. Then child support of $620 a month. How much rent could I afford? Have a second job too but only want the first job & support to be considered.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Rainae,
      You did not tell us if you have a car, so we assumed public transportation. If that is the case and you have no other big bills than the child support, you could afford rent in the $900 range. Look at the numbers below and see what is missing. Print out this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and make your own detailed calculations. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $43,750
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$10,938
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $32,813
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,734

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$957
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$191
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care -$620
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,313

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $421
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $273
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $148
      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.

      Reply
  114. Avatar Dione

    I’m thinking about getting a place of my own. I make 12.37 an hour full 40 hours a week after taxes, retirement, and insurance is taken from my check, my take home is around $711 The place I’m interested is $550 a month.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Dione,
      If we take your 2-paycheck month take-home of $1,422, then at 35% your max. rent is $498, so $550 is not that far. But, we don’t know anything about your other expenses, so we cannot tell if that would work. Use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to see for yourself how much you’d have left over each month after your essential expenses. We like to see about $400, so you can live a little too, not just work to pay rent!
      Good luck!

      Reply
  115. Avatar kmtz

    Hello, I get paid monthly, $14 and hour and I work 37 hours a week. I pay 110 on my car insurance and I pay 41 for my phone bill and I spend 20 dollars biweekly on gas. Would I make it to get my own apartment.

    Reply
  116. Avatar Jenn

    Hi I’m looking for my first apartment and I need so much help, I make 16.50 an hour and work 40 hours a week. My car plus the insurance is 160 and my phone is 70

    Reply
  117. Avatar Maddy

    Hi there!! My boyfriend and Inare looking to get our first apartment together. I currently make $10/hour and work roughly 40 hours a week. My boyfriend works with his dad and brings in about $500 a week. What would we be able to pay in rent/utilities??

    Reply
    • Avatar christian andrew lopez

      With two incomes you could afford up to $1000 a month. Also budget $200 for utilities.

      Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Maddy,
      The basic landlord formula is annual before tax income divided by 40. If we assume that you each take 2 weeks unpaid vacation and work 50 weeks a year paid, here’s the calculation:
      Maddy: $10*40*50 =$20,000
      BF: $500*50 = $25,000
      Total $45,000
      Divided by 40 = $1,125 max. rent.
      Est. Util. 20$ $ 225
      Total housing $1,350
      However, a better way is do a real budget because this formula does not include your other fixed expenses, such as car costs. Estimate your after tax incomes and all your other expenses using this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. Only then you can see if that $1,125 will work. Good luck!

      Reply
  118. Avatar Kay

    Hi I make 9.50 An hour an I work 80 hours I get paid every two weeks would I make it for an apartment

    Reply
  119. Avatar Camille Harrison

    So I will be coming out of high school, I make 10/hour for my first job, and 9/hour for my second. The first being on call. I work around 25-30 hours a week. The apartment I’m looking at has free water and free utilities I would only have to pay electric. I dont pay for my car and my work pays for gas. The place is $425, do I have enough?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Camille,
      For us the bigger question is, why are you moving out now? Could you live at home for a while longer and use that time to save some money before you move out. Al least long enough to find out how you like those jobs. If you move out now, about half of your take-home pay will go to rent. Add to other essential living expenses and you have $20 a week for all other spending. See below. We calculated your pay on the lower hours, because the rent is do no matter how many hours you get a month. When the extra hours come, you’ll be in a little better shape. Whatever you do, do not fall into a credit card trap to make ends meet! If you must move and only expenses you have to pay are rent, electric and food, you could probably squeeze by, but there is no room for error and you need all extra hours you can get. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary ($10*25*50) $12,500
      Less: Estimated taxes 10% (see below 2.) -$1,250
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $11,250
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $938

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$425
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$85
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$850

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $88
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $88
      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.

      Reply
  120. Avatar Dell

    So I make 16 an hour, 36hrs a week. My car note is 135 and insurance is 144. My phone is 35. I have no kids and I have a second job where I only go in a day or two and it adds a extra 100. With and without the second job…what can I afford? Thanks!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Dell,
      Based on your expenses, it looks like you could afford rent in the $700 range. We’d like you to get a place that you can afford on your main job only, and use the second job to start building an emergency/savings account. When you are living on your own, you always want have a Plan B if something unexpected happens, and money in the bank is a good Plan B. As always, double-check the numbers. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $28,800
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$5,760
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $23,040
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,920

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$672
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$134
      Car loan or lease payment -$135
      Car Insurance  -$144
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$35
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,510

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $410
      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 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.

      Reply
  121. Avatar Tasha

    This is awesome. I am thinking about going to work a temp job where the pay is $22/hr. I am making a career change and my current pay is $27/hr. I live in Boston so my concern was budgeting on less income with the current expenses I have. However, where I live the rent is 30% of your income which helps in situations like mine. I would definitely have to cut expenses where I can. My car is paid off as well so rent is my highest expense.

    Reply
  122. Avatar Stephanie

    I really needed this chart. So I’m making 11.50 an hour, working 40 hours a week, my fiance is gonna be making around 20.00 an hour working 50 hours a week. Our phone bill is 54.00 but his truck payment is 320.00 and my jeep payment is also 320.00. Our insurance all together is 381.00. What are our options?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Stephanie,
      Even with you relatively high car expenses, you could target rent in the $1,500 range and still be able to save 10% of your paychecks. Of course, if you get a nice place for less, more power to you. Your fiance has a lot of hours at work right now, which really boosts up the rent target. but if those hours drop, it could get tight at $1,500. At least, your savings will have to drop. Double check the numbers. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) Combined $73,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$18,250
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $54,750
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $4,563

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$1,597
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$319
      Car loan or lease payment -$640
      Car Insurance  -$381
      Gas -$150
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$54
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$3,651

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $911
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$456
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $455
      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.

      Reply
  123. Avatar Jordan Greene

    First off, I appreciate the help you’re providing people. I make 15 an hour and average 35 hours a week. My only bills are 60 for car insurance and 45 for my phone. What are my options?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Jordan,
      With your low fixed expenses you should be Ok with the formula rent of $656 for $15/hr 35 hrs/week. However, if you go a little more conservative route and spend in the $600 range, you’ll have enough money left over to put at least 5% of your take-home into savings. As always, make sure to double-check the numbers below. What can blow your budget easily is eating out (and especially the drinks!), so learn to cook and try to limit nights out. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $26,250
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$5,250
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $21,000
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,750

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$613
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$123
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  -$60
      Gas -$50
      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 -$1,230

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $520
      Savings (target 5% of take-home) -$88
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $433
      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.

      Reply
  124. Avatar sabeegahalamin

    “How Much Rent Can I Afford on My Hourly Pay?” which is really very good topic. Now a days paying rent is not easy. We have monthly pay so much things like phone bill, car bill, loans, provisions and so many things are there. Rent also same monthly monthly we should pay. So plan accordingly and do. You gave clear idea about renting. Thank you so much. Keep posting…

    Reply
  125. Avatar halee

    make 14$ an hr work 40 hrs a week. insurance 13 dollar ,car 274 and fne 63 thats it.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Halee,
      For your hours and pay, you should be able to afford $700 a month, but because of your car costs, you should not target more than $600 and even that is a little tight. Make a real budget for yourself, using this printable worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $28,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$5,600
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $22,400
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,867

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$600
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$120
      Car loan or lease payment -$274
      Car Insurance 
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.) -$13
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills fne?? -$63
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,540

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $327
      Savings (target 5% of take-home)
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $327
      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.

      Reply
  126. Avatar Taylor

    Hello,

    I’m looking to move between june-july. I make $21.84hr and my expense are as follow:

    Car payment :$341.26
    CC Bills: $100
    Loan 1: $127.23
    Loan 2: $230
    Car Insurance :$100
    Phone Bill: $94

    Can you tell me how much rent I can realistically afford?

    Reply
  127. Avatar Jessica Tavares

    Hi, my name is Jessica and I recently got a job in NYC that pays 40,000 a year 9-5 FT. Im trying to see what my budget would be for my first place! Other expenses I have are $350 in student loan debt, $100 metro card.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Jessica,
      We have some good news and bad news for you. Bad news is, you most likely have to live with roommate(s) and spend as much as half of your take-home on rent. The good news is, you don’t need a car, commuting is cheap and the unlimited 30 day Metro Card is $121. Also, you’ll find tons of free things to do. Cook your meals, bring lunch to work, limit your Uber to occasional weekend night and you’ll do fine. Get into habit of saving, even if it’s the change in your pocket every day. Use this worksheet to make a detailed budget and stick to it. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. Good luck! Let us know how you are doing in a couple of months.

      Reply
  128. Avatar Destiny

    Hi, my name is Destiny Im 21 and a part time student . I have been using this as a reference for a year for future plans and those future plans are very close and I’m planning on moving out very soon. I now make $14/hour and work 40 hours a week. I have other expenses other than utilities such as car insurance, phone bill and WiFi. How much should I spend on rent then ?

    Reply
  129. Avatar Hubert

    Hope I’m not too late to the party. I make 16.25/hr, work 30 – 35 hours every week. My car note is $242, car insurance $160. The apartment I want is $575/month. Will this work out in my favor ?

    Reply
  130. Avatar Savana

    Hey,
    My sister and her boyfriend and my boyfriend and I have decided to save up and get a trailer (mobile home) together. Not counting the down payment and cutting on utilities, can we afford this? The men make $1500 each a month, and I make $800 roughly. My sister plans to go to work part time as she is having a baby, and childcare is free for her so she should make $600-$800. All of our bills combined is $3,360. Total income after taxes is $4,600/ mo. What’s the most expensive rent and utilities we can afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Savana,
      So, your total income, after taxes is $4,600 (including your sister who’s having a baby?) and your bills are $3,360, leaving you $1,240 to cover rent/mortgage, utilities, any repairs that may come up and any incidental expenses for 4 + baby. It does not sound like you are ready for this move, but maybe we are missing something. Use this worksheet to estimate how your full budget might look like. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
      Good luck!

      Reply
  131. Avatar Sierra Bass

    Hello , I’ve been looking for places for my boyfriend and I to move into. Right now I’m make 9 an hour but will be raised to 11 in a couple of months and 11.50 if I do night shift. We both make the same after the pay raise and on average of 25 hours a week for me. And the same or more for him. What would be the most if the split the bill for all of it down the middle??

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sierra,
      You could probably afford to pay in the $600 range in you don’t have any fixed expenses and can use public transportation. Since you work only 25 hours each, you have plenty of room to increase your hours in a pinch, unless you are students. Double check the numbers with this worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
      Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $27,500
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$4,125
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $23,375
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,948

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = Income/40 -$688
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$138
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$250
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,585

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $363
      Savings (target 20% 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.

      Reply
  132. Avatar Jessica Miller

    HI I see you’re helping people figure out if they can fit their budget.

    I’m making 15 an hour, work 31 hours a week.
    I have a car payment of 289. Car ins of 186 phone is 50 and health ins is 50.

    I’m looking into income based living for my first apartment should be between 564-570

    Internet and electric will be separate. Probably about 100 a month….Can i swing this ?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Jessica,
      The short answer is NO, you cannot swing it. Like so many of our readers, your expenses take a far too big bite of your income. See below.
      Can you get rid of your car and use public transportation? Otherwise, with your expenses, you need to increase your income before you can move out. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $23,250
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$3,488
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $19,763
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,647

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = Income/40 -$581
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$116
      Car loan or lease payment -$289
      Car Insurance  -$186
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.) -$50
      Cell Phone -$50
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,663

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$16
      Savings (target 20% 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.

      Reply
  133. Avatar Sylvia

    Hi, I’ve been wanting to move out of my parents house for a very long time and I might be getting a new job that pays $11 an hour and pays $11.75 on the weekends, the new and only cheap apartment near me is already full so I am looking in the city near where my job is going to be, I’ve found one that would be $650 and one that would be $585 a month
    Do you think I could afford either with a car payment of 256, car insurance of 120 and phone bill of 67?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sylvia,
      Unfortunately, you (like so many of our readers) have too high car expenses that don’t leave enough room for either rent. We like you to have $90-$100 a week left after your essential expenses, for items like clothing, entertainment and emergency saving, so that you have some flexibility to enjoy living on your own. If your car and rent take so much out of your budget that you have no money to leave your apartment to do anything fun, you are not going to be happy. If you can find a place near your work, so that you don’t need a car, you’d be able to afford a place. Double check the numbers with this worksheet 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 (above /12) $1,558

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$585
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$117
      Car loan or lease payment -$256
      Car Insurance  -$120
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$67
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care/support
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,535

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $23
      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.

      Reply
  134. Avatar Beth Reilly

    Hi! My boyfriend is relocating to where I am. He’s thinking about moving into a 269$ furnished studio apartment. He going to look for between a 10 to 11 dollar paying job. Can he support himself with that pay???

    Reply
  135. Avatar Yesenia

    Hello I makes 18$ an hour full time working 40 hours a week , my bills are
    80$ phone bill
    208$ car insurance
    What can I afford ?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Yesenia,
      Looks like you can comfortably afford the formula max. rent of 35% of your take-home pay, even after putting 10% to savings. See below. But before you start looking double check that you remembered all your expenses using this worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single
      Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $36,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$9,000
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $27,000
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,250

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent @35% of take home -$788
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$158
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  -$208
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards $0
      Child care/support
      Other fixed bills $0
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,623

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $627
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$225
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $402
      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.

      Reply
  136. Avatar Sarah Lou

    I’m looking to move out soon but as I am disabled and unable to work due to the nature of my disability I am currently on benefits. Is there a list of affordable rents that would be beneficial to someone on benefits please?

    Reply
  137. Avatar Ash

    Hi im going to be working downtown Chicago at 20 an hour for 40 hours a week. Rental is usually around 1500 a month in the area. What would be affordable rental for a 1 bed apartment and how much would utility bills cost me.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Ash,
      Since we don’t know anything about your other expenses, we can only go by the chart in the post that says your max. rent is $1,000.
      If you use public transportation, you could easily afford that rent, but not quite $1,500, as long as you don’t have any loans or other fixed bills. If you have a car, then it will be much tighter. Us this budget planning worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to double check with your real paychecks and expenses. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $40,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$8,000
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $32,000
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,667

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$1,000
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$200
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone
      Student Loans -$80
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,745

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $922
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$267
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if public transportation $655

      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.

      Reply
  138. Avatar Bryson

    Hey me and my girlfriend is trying to move out and the place we found with rent and utilities included are about $1,130 that’s rent, power, water, trash, cable, and internet
    My income 40 hours a week at $11/hour
    Her income 35 hours a week at 9.50/hour
    Other expenses
    Car-$89
    Phone-250
    Car insurance-250
    Can we afford to do that?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Bryson,
      Looks like you can manage that rent but will not have much room for savings. Our formula estimate for utilities is probably high for you so you may have $100 or so savings there. Your car insurance looks high. Maybe you can lower it. Sometimes, taking a safe driving class can give you nice savings on your insurance. 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
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $38,625
      Less: Estimated taxes 10% (see below 2.) -$3,863
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $34,763
      Monthly take-home pay $2,897

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$1,130
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$226
      Car loan or lease payment -$89
      Car Insurance  -$250
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) $0
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$250
      Student Loans $0
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,505

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $392
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $392
      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.

      Reply
  139. Avatar yonna

    Hi I just got a job making 13 an hour, I found an apartment for 750$ a month water included in rent. I live in Philadelphia it’ll just be me and my son moving in I work 38 hours a week with a possibility of more can I afford this rent

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Yonna,
      Unfortunately, $750 rent looks like too much on your income. See below. It does not leave you enough for discretionary expenses, especially when you have a child. In order to get closer to being able to afford that rent, you should try to grow your income by about $75 a week. If you live frugally and learn to cook basic foods, you might be able to manage with extra $50 or so a week. We are rooting for you and your son to be able to move to your own place soon. Check your numbers with this budget worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $24,700
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$3,705
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $20,995
      Monthly take-home pay $1,750

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$750
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$150
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  $0
      Gas $0
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans $0
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,615

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $135
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $135
      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.

      Reply
  140. Avatar Lauren

    I am hoping to move out of my parents house when I finish college in a few months. The building I want to live in costs $950 a month, then I would have my phone bill $25, student loan $140, and car insurance $113. If I make $20 an hour working 40 hours a week is that rent to high for me to afford? I also work a side job which makes an extra $200 a month (after taxes).

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Lauren,
      The good news is that with a $20 an hour job you should be able to afford $950 rent comfortably. You could even start a very nice savings plan, especially if you’ll bank that extra $200 from your side job. Getting your own place is a big step but you’ll be ready, at least financially. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $40,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$10,000
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.)
      Estimated annual take-home pay $30,000
      Monthly take-home pay $2,500

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent of take-home -$950
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$190
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  -$113
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$25
      Student Loans -$140
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,808

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $692
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$250
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $442
      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.

      Reply
  141. Avatar Sophie

    Hello, I take home about 2,060 a month. My car payment is 480, insurance 100 and my cell phone is 80 a month I also pay the minimum of 25 on my credit card. How much rent can I afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sophie,
      You being tripped up by your car expenses and therefore cannot afford the rent our basic formula calculates, 35% of take-home or $721. It looks to us that you could only afford about $500 in rent and still have enough for all your essential expenses plus close to $100 a week for discretionary expenses and emergency savings. See below. Double-check your numbers with this https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Monthly take-home pay $2,060

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent of take-home -$500
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$100
      Car loan or lease payment -$480
      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 -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards -$25
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,675

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $385
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car

      Reply
  142. Avatar Paulie L.

    Hello, I have an update. Last year my salary was $24,772.08, but I have been offered another position making $32,220. My expenses have not changed much. How much rent can I afford with the following expenses?
    Car note $225 ( I usually pay more than the min.)
    Student loans $150 (this may change)
    Car insurance $169
    Food $250
    Gym membership $25
    Gas $200+ (new job is 35/40mins away)
    Hair care $75
    Cell phone $15
    Netflix/Hulu/Spotify/xbox gold $25
    Pension 1% of gross income
    401K currently 13% of gross income (may change)
    IRA contribution $50
    I don’t pay for health insurance and my credit cards are at $0

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Paulie,
      Look at our answer to Logan, below. You are in a similar situation and with your current expenses could only afford an inexpensive roommate share. If you have to move, you’d need to stop all savings contributions to 401K, etc. That would be very unfortunate. Stay where you are for a while, save what your rent would be and build a nice emergency fund before you move. 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
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $32,220
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$4,833
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) -$4,511
      Estimated annual take-home pay $22,876
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,906

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$667
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$133
      Car loan or lease payment -$225
      Car Insurance  -$169
      Gas -$200
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$250
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone / Netflix, etc. -$40
      Student Loans -$150
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Personal care -$100
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,975

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$68
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$50
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car -$118
      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.

      Reply
  143. Avatar Brianna

    I make 14.90 an hour 40 hrs a week with paid vacation and sick time. I also receive 429 a month for child support. I pay:
    Car: 268
    Phone: 150
    Insurance: 195
    Credit cards: 50
    What would be ideal for rent?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Brianna,
      Below is a budget worksheet that you can use as a starting point. Print out a blank worksheet here https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and input all your real numbers. That formula $750, based on your hourly wages and weekly hours may be too much, or just right, depending what all your real essential expenses add up to. You need to target to have at least $400 or so left over for discretionary spending a month, and a little something to start an emergency fund. Our estimate only left $101, that is far too little. Being a single mom, it’s doubly hard to make the numbers work, but you do have a job with benefits and get child support, which helps. Let us know how things work out – the right apartment is out there. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $30,992 (at $14.90/40hours*52 weeks)
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$4,649
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $26,343
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,195
      $429
      Estimated monthly cash in $2,624

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Rent at $15 /40 hours from chart. -$750
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$150
      Car loan or lease payment -$268
      Car Insurance  -$195
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$150
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards -$50
      Child care -$400
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,523

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $101
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car

      Reply
  144. Avatar Logan

    I’m really just trying to figure out what I can afford, my car payment is 244.53 phone is 116 and car insurance is 233 I make 13 per hour 40 hours a week

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Logan,
      Same advice to you as to Sabrina, so here goes.
      Take another look at the chart in this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/. Your max. rent is $650. Now, print out this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and add to it all your income and expenses, including your target rent. What does it say? Does it show that you have enough money left over for food, clothing, commuting to work and all your other essential expenses. It will probably tell you that $650 is far too high, because of your car expenses. However, after you do the math, you’ll know your right rent range. It may tell you to look for a roommate share for now. Let us know what you find out and good luck!

      Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Logan,
      Like with so many our readers, your rent money is going into your car expenses. You cannot afford anywhere near our formula max. rent of 35% of your estimated take-home, or $607. If you want to play it safe, you’d be looking for a roommate share of under $400 a month and still you’d have hard time saving even a small emergency fund. Now, starting out in a roommate share is what many do, so if you have to move try to find one via personal connection. Or stay where you are, start saving your estimated rent, so you know what it will mean to your lifestyle, and look for a place in a few months.

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $26,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$5,200
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $20,800
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,733

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$607
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$121
      Car loan or lease payment -$245
      Car Insurance  -$233
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$116
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,712

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $21
      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.

      Reply
  145. Avatar sabrina

    Hi
    The apartment I am looking into the rent is 1300.
    Full time 40hrs week I bring how $902 every two weeks. I make about $15.87hr
    My expenses:
    car insurance every 6months $500
    Credit Car: $200
    cable about 160

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sabrina,
      If we understand your numbers correctly, your take-home is about $1,804 a month and you want to rent a $1,300 a month place. Let’s do a little math here: rent $1,300 + utilities at least 10%, or $130 + car insurance $83 + credit cards $200 + cable $160 = $1,873!!! Clearly, that rent is not going to work and no sane landlord will rent you that place, anyway. Take another look at the chart in this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/. Your Max. rent is $750-$800. Now, print out this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and add to it all your income and expenses, including your target rent. What does it say. Does it show that you have enough money left over for food, clothing, commuting to work and all your other essential expenses. It may tell you that $750 is too high, but after you do the math, you’ll know your right rent range. Let us know what you find out and good luck!

      Reply
  146. Avatar Bianca Weston

    First Job:
    Full Time – $10/Hour – 40 Hours per week (approximately $650 bi-weekly)

    Second Job:
    Full Time – $700/Week

    Don’t have any car expenses yet
    Loan- $100/Month
    Small credit card- $10/Month

    What should my target rent be?

    There’s an apartment I REALLY want for $1500

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Bianca,
      Two full time jobs? Working 80 hours a week. And you want to get an expensive rental that will force you to continue working both jobs as long as you live there.
      Before you take on that burden, reflect on this poem by BY EDNA ST. VINCENT MILLAY
      “My candle burns at both ends;
      It will not last the night;
      But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends—
      It gives a lovely light!”
      Good luck!

      Reply
  147. Avatar Tabatha

    Hi i live in Chicago. I work in the city; I make $15 an hour and work from 35-40 hrs. I get paid every week.
    Car Payment: $205
    Insurance Payment: $190
    Parking for work: $60/weekly
    Phone Bill: $120
    Credit Car: $200-300

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Tabatha,
      You probably take home a bit under $2,000 a month and your fixed expenses are in the $1,000 range, before rent, utilities or food. If you live and work in Chicago, do you really need a car? Your car expenses take about third of your take-home, so if you get rid of your car, you can use that money for rent. Right now, it looks really tight for you to be able to afford your own place. Maybe you can find a roommate share that would work.
      Use this budgeting worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to estimate what you could realistically afford in rent. Good luck!

      Reply
  148. Avatar Rafael

    I make 13.50 per hour and work 40 hours a week how much rent can i afford my only bill as of now is a cellphone bill of $70 a month I’m looking to find a place

    Reply
  149. Avatar Amy-Jo Grace

    Thank you this was really helpful, and completely validated my decision to move to more affordable housing.

    Reply
  150. Avatar Makenna

    Hello! I make 9.50 (I’m getting a raise soon which will help), work 39 hours a week, and I am going to have 3 other roomates to help out. Is it possible for me to move out within a month? I do have 3 months rent saved up, but I’m still scared I’m not going to be able to afford everything.

    Reply
  151. Avatar Paige

    I make $11 an hour i pay $230/month on insurance and $188/ car payment am i able to move out of my moms?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Paige,
      As you can see on the chart in the post, at 40 hours @$11, your max. rent would be $550.
      https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/
      However, Your car expenses are so high, relative your income, that you could not pay them, rent, utilities, phone, food, etc. with your take-home income.
      Below is a rough budget for you at $550 rent. It shows that after paying your most essential living expenses, you’ll have $10 left for any discretionary expenses. It does not even cover one movie ticket. Stay at your mom’s for now, save as much as you can, get a raise or two, and then move out and be ready for a great first apartment experience. 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.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $18,700
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,558

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$550
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$110
      Car loan or lease payment -$188
      Car Insurance  -$230
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,548

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $10
      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.

      Reply
  152. Avatar Carly

    I don’t agree with this to be quite honest. I work 36 hours a week and get paid around $26, and my rent is WAY more than $1,138

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Carly,
      Your situation is a perfect example why formula rent is only a starting point and you really need to do a budget with your own income and expenses. (You can use our printable budgeting worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/.) If you live in an urban area with great, cheap, public transportation, cook for yourself, and limit your pumpkin lattes and Uber rides, you can probably manage $1,500-$1,600 in rent and put some $$ to savings and still have enough left over for discretionary expenses. We did your rough budget below assuming NYC monthly transit pass for commuting costs. However, if you spend $500 a month on your car that you need for commuting to work, then even that $1,138 could be tight.
      Thanks for your comment and good luck in your apartment.
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $46,800
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$11,700
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $35,100
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,925

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$1,138
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$228
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  $0
      Gas $0
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,911

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $1,014
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$293
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $722
      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.

      Reply
  153. Avatar Sasha

    $12.50 an hour averaging 32 hrs a week.
    Rent $365
    Hulu/Netflix $20
    Internet $51
    Electric/Water $300
    Cell $50

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sasha,
      Your budget looks very tight, with those super high electric and water expenses. It does not seem to leave you enough for any discretionary expenses, unless you go on a full Ramen diet. If you can increase your hours closer to 40 you’ll be in a much better place. But I’m sure you already know that. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $20,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$3,000
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $17,000
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,417

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent 35% of take-home -$365
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$371
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  $0
      Gas $0
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$50
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,251

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $166
      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.

      Reply
  154. Avatar Johanna

    Hello! I make $18 an hour working full time 40 hours a week. My bills are
    phone bill $85
    Car insurance $70
    Child care $480
    Credit card $80 or less
    What can afford to move into my own place with my little one?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Johanna,
      A very rough budget shows that you could probably carry $500-$600 in rent (see below), but you should use our printable budgeting worksheet to double check all your numbers. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
      Hope you and your little one get your own place soon. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $36,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$7,200
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $28,800
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,400

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent Est. -$600
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$120
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  -$70
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) $0
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$85
      Loans $0
      Credit Cards -$80
      Child care -$480
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,995

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $405
      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.

      Reply
  155. Avatar Vincent trey

    Hey I live in Ohio, I’m 20 just start making $15 a hour 40 hours a week and thinking about getting a second job soon but right now I live with my parents. Only bills I pay is car insurance which is $160 and gas. What rent Can I afford?

    Reply
  156. Avatar Eveyana Anchondo

    Hello I work 40 hours a week and 10$ an hour all I play is my 53$ phone and gas for my car? What could I afford ?

    Reply
  157. Avatar Layla

    Hi I make $10 an hour and I work 37-40 hours a week I’m looking for a 1 bedroom and 1 bath apartment and the only two bills I pay are my cell phone which is $45, and rent at my grandmas which is $100 how much will I be looking at for rent each month and how much do I need to save?

    Reply
  158. Avatar Paul23

    Hello I make 14.50 a hr I work 40 hrs a weeks I’m a mother of one and looking to move the only thing I pay is a phone bill 186.00 and my car insurance 100.00 my car is paid for how much am I looking at for rent each month?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Paul23,
      We have so little information that it’s hard to estimate what would be the reasonable rent for you. You may have childcare expenses and credit card bills that will have a big impact. Using typical levels of expenses for groceries, etc., it looks like you could manage rent in the $600 range and still have some money for discretionary expenses and savings, See below.
      But, as we always advice, please print out our budgeting worksheet and estimate more closely all your expenses and income. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
      Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $29,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$5,800
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $23,200
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,933

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$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 -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$186
      Student Loans $0
      Credit Cards $0
      Child care
      Other fixed bills $0
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,566

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $367
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) Emergency Fund
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $367
      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.

      Reply
  159. Avatar Felicia

    Hello, I make $18.50/hr and work 40 hours a week
    I am looking to move out but am nervous to do so.
    Here are my monthly bills:

    Student loan: 182.00
    Car insurance/phone: 125.00
    Emergency fund: 150.00
    Hulu/Netflix/Spotify: 33.00
    Credit Card: 40.00
    Food: 200.00
    Gas:150.00
    Misc: 75.00
    beauty/clothes expense: 100.00
    Entertainment: 100.00

    Reply
    • Avatar Felicia

      To make things clearer, I am renting a room right now for 500.00 a month, they are not charging utilities so I can get on my feet. I am wanting to be on my own in at least 6 months, I moved in about a month ago. My health insurance is taken out of my pay check and am on my parents dental insurance, after taxes and my 401K plan, I take home around 2100.

      Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Felicia,
      It looks like our basic formula rent at 35% of take-home, or $736 is a little too high for you. See below. If you find a place in the $600 range, you should be able to manage. Aim to have at least $2,000 in the bank before you move and then continue saving that $150 a month, in addition to the 401K. Double check your budget with this printable worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
      Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $37,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$9,250
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) -$2,500
      Estimated annual take-home pay $25,250
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,104

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$736
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet)+Hulu, etc -$180
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance /phone -$125
      Gas -$150
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$200
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone
      Student Loans -$182
      Credit Cards -$40
      Child care
      Other fixed bills -$275
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,929

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $175
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) Emergency Fund -$150
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $25
      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.

      Reply
  160. Avatar Quisha

    I make $12.25/hr 40 hours a week I get paid every two weeks.
    Rent for a room at a Lodge-$380 for 2 weeks in all around $760 a month
    Phone-$90
    Uber rides to and from work- average $150
    Health insurance $86
    Dental-$1.37

    I am working on getting a car and a more affordable place to stay. I just don’t know for sure what I can afford. I don’t want to get stuck.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Quisha,
      Right now it looks like you could manage a place in the $500 rent range if you live frugally. If Uber works for you and costs only $150 a month you’d be better off continuing with them than getting a car. Even a least expensive used car will cost you $300+ a month, between the loan payment, insurance and gas.
      In any case, do your own budget by using this printable worksheet. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
      Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $24,500
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$4,900
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) -$2,272
      Estimated annual take-home pay $17,328
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,444

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$505
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$101
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance 
      Gas
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) UBER -$150
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$90
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,186

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $258
      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.

      Reply
  161. Avatar Dustin

    I make $20 an hour and I work about 45 hours a week I have a $60 phone bill $288 car payment $125 car insurance a month what would I be able to afford apartment wise a month

    Reply
  162. Avatar Dexter

    Hi my name is Dexter and I work 40hrs a week I’m making $18.82 dollars an hour and I sometimes work 10 to 16 hours overtime. And I already have $5,000 on my savings.

    Car insurance: $735 (6 months policy)
    Car payment: $165
    Dental insurance: $9
    Health Insurance: $71
    TSP (401k): $72 (5% every paycheck) I get paid every two weeks.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Dexter,
      You can estimate your max. rent two ways. First, with the basic landlord formula of annual pay, before taxes and deductions, divided by 40. That number is $941. Second, look at your take-home pay and pay no more than 35% of that amount for rent. That number is $717, that we used in the rough budget below. With your nice savings, potential extra overtime pay that we did not include in the rent formula, you should be comfortable in the $700-$800 rent range and still be able to put at least 10% of your pay in savings (including the 401K).
      Use our budgeting worksheet for a more exact estimate. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $37,640
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$9,410
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) -$3,648
      Estimated annual take-home pay $24,582
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,049

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$717
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$143
      Car loan or lease payment -$165
      Car Insurance  -$123
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,618

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $431
      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.

      Reply
  163. Avatar Miya owens

    Hello, I current work 40 hours every week at 11.00 an hour I do not have to pay rent for now but have two kids a toddler and teen.

    Phone is 35 a month
    Diapers 45
    Car insurance 220
    Wifi 10
    Gas 80
    Misc 300
    Food 400
    Health paid for

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Miya,
      You are lucky that you do not have to pay rent now, because after paying your expenses, you really don’t have enough left over for rent. With two kids it’s tough to make the ends meet. Hope their dad is contributing to their expenses. Once the teen gets old enough to pitch in that will help.
      If you can bring your hourly pay to up to $14-$15 range, then you could afford a place in the $500-$600 rent range. The numbers below were done assuming $14 an hour. Use our budgeting worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to estimate more closely when you might be able to move. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) At $14/hr. $28,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 10% (see below 2.) -$2,800
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $25,200
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,100

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$500
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$100
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  -$220
      Gas -$80
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$400
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone WiFi -$45
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care -Diapers -$45
      Other fixed bills -$300
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,690

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $410
      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.

      Reply
  164. Avatar Gina

    Hello my name is Gina. I get paid 17.25/hr with a 15% differential on sat (19.83) and 20% on Sundays (20.70) and I work 40 hrs/week about $1150 every two weeks, my bills are as listed:

    Car Ins: 629.76
    Car Note – 290.22
    Phone – 121
    CC – 50
    Gas – 50
    Misc – 93.61

    Would like to see how much rent I can afford per month as I am moving in March 2018

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Gina,
      Your car insurance is an absolute budget buster for you. Together with your car note and gas, your transportation expenses almost eat up one paycheck a month. Our basic rent affordability formula, 35% of your take-home pay, say that you should be able to afford about $800 a month in rent. However, with your car expenses that would not leave you enough for food, clothing, etc. essential living costs, let alone savings, and even $400 could be a struggle. Use this worksheet to see for yourself how your numbers would look. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
      Is there any way that you could find cheaper car insurance? You must have had some bad accidents or really serious traffic violations to get hit by 4 times the insurance rate we normally see. Find out if a safe driving class would help you lover that bill. Let us know if you find a way to lower that insurance bill. Good luck!
      P.S. If your car insurance amount you gave is not your monthly bill, but perhaps semi-annual bill, then that $800 rent might fit into your budget. Still, double -check with the budgeting worksheet.

      Reply
  165. Avatar Lorenzo r

    Hello, I just started my new job that pays 14.25 an hour with 40 hours a week, my car payment is 329.00 and other bills are 300 I’m wondering what the highest amount of rent I can afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Lorenzo,
      Since we don’t know what is in the other bills, it’s impossible to give a good rent target. We did a rough plan below and it looks like it will be in the $400-$450 range. To get a better idea, you need to use our printable budgeting worksheet and put in it your real take-home pay and real expenses. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Depending where you live, you may have to look for a roommate share to start with. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $28,500
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$5,700
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $22,800
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,900

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$400
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$80
      Car loan or lease payment -$329
      Car Insurance  ?
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills -$300
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,499

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $401
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)

      Reply
        • MFA Editors MFA Editors

          Hi Lorenzo,
          The answer is still pretty much the same. The bills just move to other places on the budget planner. As long as your car loan and related costs (insurance, gas) take $500 or more off the top of your monthly take-home, you have to live very frugally with all your other expenses if you want to spend $500-$600 on rent. Being rent poor will not make it a great first apartment experience. Keep in mind that you should also have room in your budget first to build an emergency fund and then try to set up a regular savings plan. Use the budget planner worksheet to see what you’ll be comfortable with. Good luck!

        • MFA Editors MFA Editors

          Hi Lorenzo,
          Just noticed a mistake in the previous reply. While it initially said that being rent poor will make a great first apartment experience, what we meant to say is that
          “Being rent poor will not make it a great first apartment experience.” Being rent poor is an experience, definitely, and a memorable one years from now, but it is still tough to go through IRL.

  166. Avatar colby h

    Hello, i am moving to texas next year, ill have 10k saved up. I work full time at home depot, 40+ hours at 11 dollars an hour. The apartment i’m looking at is 740 a month all expenses included, im trying to do all the math myself to ensure i can afford it, is it possible for me to do?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Colby,
      We included some typical expenses in a sample budget for you and it looks really tight. We’d hate to see you have to dip into your savings for rent. But, because you have those saving for an emergency, if you know how to cook for yourself and live frugally, you could do it. However, you probably could not add to your savings. You work for a good company, so make sure you take advantage of any benefits they offer, such as a 401K savings plan. Use this printable worksheet to double check the numbers. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary $11*40*50 $22,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$3,300
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $18,700
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,558

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$740
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) $0
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  -$150
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards $0
      Child care
      Other fixed bills – Gym/Certification $0
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,360

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $198
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)

      Reply
  167. Avatar Sasha

    Hi – I’m am getting a divorce and will have to figure out an apartment and all of the things that go with it that I never had to before (leaving the marital home, since it was with in laws…). I’m worried since I never had my own apartment. Went from parents home to married home. PLEASE help me! I don’t want to fall flat on my face (two kids shared custody) post divorce. My goal is to find a 2 – 3 bedroom apartment but that will depend on my budget…

    Annual Salary Est. 100,000
    Monthly take-home pay (after taxes, healthcare, insurance, transit deductions, 401k): $4,600

    Monthly Essential Living Expenses
    Maximum Rent: ? what can i afford?
    Utilities 20% of rent (electric, heat, internet): won’t know?
    Car loan or lease payment: 0.00
    Car Insurance: 140/month
    Gas -$60.00/month
    Groceries/Food -assuming approx $300.00
    Laundry/Dry Cleaning
    Cell Phone – paid for by company
    Child care – tbd (expenses will be shared with ex husband, yet tbd)
    Total Monthly Essential Expenses

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sasha,
      Sorry to hear about your divorce. You have good income so you’ll be after you get settled in your new life. We ran some rough numbers for you using our formula rent of 35% of take-home, but it looks like you could go to the $2,000 range in rent, and still have about $600 a month for discretionary expenses. Of course, assuming you do not have any other major bills. Use our printable budgeting worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ to estimate all your expenses more closely. We increased your groceries to $450 and estimated your share of childcare at $500.
      Good luck! You’ll be fine!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Monthly take-home pay $4,600

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$1,610
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$322
      Car loan or lease payment
      Car Insurance  -$140
      Gas -$60
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care share Est. -$500
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$3,142

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $1,458
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$460
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $998

      Reply
  168. Avatar Veronica

    Hi there! I am looking to rent a 1 bedroom apartment in Orange County. Can you please help me get a better idea of the price range I can afford? I work 40 hours a week and get paid $21 an hr.

    Here are my monthly expenses:

    Car – $302
    Phone – $75
    Gym pass – $40
    Certification – $94
    Credit Card #1 – $177
    Credit Card #2 – $35
    Gas – $80

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Veronica,
      It looks like you could carry about $900 a month in rent, although it leaves very little room for savings. You should double check the numbers below by using our printable budgeting worksheet here https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary $21*40*50 $42,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$10,500
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $31,500
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $2,625

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$919
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$184
      Car loan or lease payment -$302
      Car Insurance  ?
      Gas -$80
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$75
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards -$212
      Child care
      Other fixed bills – Gym/Certification -$134
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$2,246

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $380
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)

      Reply
  169. Avatar Austin Barron

    Hello, I have been trying for days to figure out what I can afford and have came up with a number, but would like to see what you think. I make $12.40/h and work 40 hours a week at least every week. The bills are below

    Loan- $205.00
    Gas- $200.00
    Food- $200.00
    Insurance- $75.00
    Phone- $70.00
    Total- $750

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Austin,
      Use our printable budgeting worksheet to figure out what you can really afford.
      https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
      We like to see you ending up with $100 a week (or at least $75) after your essential expenses are paid, so you have some flexibility and may even be able to put a little into savings. With your expenses, you’d be looking at rents in the $450-$500 range. That high gas expense really hurts you in rent. Anything you can do to cut that down? Also, your food budget looks low. Let us know what rent number did you come up with? Is the budgeting worksheet helpful?
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary Est. (see below 1.) $24,800
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$4,960
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $19,840
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,653

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$450
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$90
      Car loan or lease payment -$205
      Car Insurance  -$75
      Gas -$200
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$200
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$70
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,290

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $363
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)

      Reply
  170. Avatar Stefan

    Hi I have a family of 5. (Wife, 2 toddlers, and a baby) And we’re ready to move out of this apartment to renting a house/Apartment. How much can I afford in Austin, TX?
    Here is my budget:

    Income:
    My disability income: $1,850 (including kids SSA)
    My wife’s disability income: $790
    My Job income: $800 after tax ($13.30 per hour @ 20/hr week)
    My wife’s job income : $800 after tax ($10 per hour @29/hr week)
    In total approx $3,900/mo)

    Expenses:
    Emergency Fund: $50/mo
    Kids savings: $75/mo
    Savings towards a house: $150/mo
    Auto Loan: $410/mo
    Auto Insurance: $130/mo
    Electricity:$150/mo
    Gas: $30/mo
    Internet:$70/mo
    Water: $50/mo
    Groceries: $500/mo
    Transportation: Gas/Oil/Maintenance:$150/mo
    Pet Care: $50/mo
    Misc: $160/mo
    Baby Supplies: $50/mo
    Credit card debt: $46/mo
    Thank you

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Stefan,
      Based on the information you shared, you should be able to afford a rent in the $1,200 range. In order to double check all the numbers, you should print out and use the budgeting worksheet from this post. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Monthly take-home pay $3,900

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Rent -$1,200
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$300
      Car loan or lease payment -$410
      Car Insurance  -$130
      Gas / maintenance -$150
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$500
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phones for 2 -$160
      Loans $0
      Credit Cards -$46
      Child care -$50
      Other fixed bills -$210
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$3,216

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $684
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$275
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, if has car $409

      Reply
  171. Avatar Laila

    I’m 20 and I’m ready to move out my moms house. I’ve been looking for an apartment but don’t know how much rent I can afford. I work at University, just start a month ago. I get paid $12 and right now I work 25 hours a week but I’m working to get more hours soon. I’m looking for an apartment to includes ALL utilizes so I won’t have to spend extra money on utIlities. My phone bill is $45. I don’t have a car but my boyfriend does so I don’t have to pay car insurance or anything like that. I pay the minimum of $27 off my credit card every month. I’m just confused on how much rent I can afford.

    Reply
  172. Avatar S

    Hi my name is S and I make $25 per hour and I work 40 hours per week and I also tend to do some overtime. So sometimes I work 90-100 hours per month. What rent can I afford in LA? Thank you so much!

    Reply
  173. Avatar Paulie L.

    Hi I’m salaried and I make $24772.08 a year. How much rent can I afford in a southern state with low cost of living?

    I spend the following per month:
    Gas $100 (I live 15 minutes from my job)
    Car note $225 (I usually pay more than minimum)
    Car insurance $173
    College loans $180 (I usually pay more than the min
    Food $250
    Savings $200
    401K $252
    Pension $25.80
    Cell phone $26
    Hair care $75
    Credit card $25 (usually carry $0 balance)

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Paulie,
      With your high fixed expenses, you will have hard time affording even a $250 a month roommate share, if one of those would be available. Print out our budgeting worksheet here https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ and really look at your numbers. Do you have to move? Can you stay where you are for another year, keep on saving and wait until your income grows. Moving out right now, with the numbers you have, will set you up to a very risky situation financially. Missing any of your fixed payments will ding your credit score and set you up for having to pay higher interest rates in the future and maybe even impair your chances of renting a place or getting a job. Good luck!

      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $24,772
      Less: Estimated taxes 20% (see below 2.) -$4,954
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) -$3,024
      Estimated annual take-home pay $16,794
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,399

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$250
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$50
      Car loan or lease payment -$225
      Car Insurance  -$173
      Gas -$100
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
      Groceries/Food -$250
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.)
      Cell Phone -$26
      Student Loans -$180
      Credit Cards -$25
      Child care
      Other fixed bills – hair care -$75
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,394

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $5

      Reply
  174. Avatar Angel B

    Hi, I work 40 hours a week and get paid $12.50. My car is paid for, I do not pay for car insurance. My phone bill is $124.00, I put $50-$100 down for 3 credit cards and me and my Childs father pay $165 a week how much could I afford to pay for rent. Keep in mind that I do buy diapers and wipes for my child.

    Reply
  175. Avatar Kelsey

    So, I just got a new job for $16 an hour with working 32 hours, I’m looking to move out alone. I spend about $40 on my phone, $100 on my credit cards, and $60 on my student loans. I dont have a car payment, but I do spend about $40-$60 on gas every week. I have my health insurance already taken out of my check, my parents pay for my car insurance, so I dont have to worry about that at the moment. I want to know if it would be more affordable to get a one bedroom or a studio

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Kelsey,
      You are very lucky that you have low fixed expenses, but try to pay off those credit card balances one by one. You should be able to afford a place in the $600-$700 range and still have enough money left over for discretionary expenses and savings. Use our printable budgeting worksheet for a detailed estimate. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
      As to studio vs. 1BR, typically studios are cheaper to rent, so you’ll probably can afford a studio in a little nicer building and neighborhood. Good luck!

      Reply
  176. Avatar Sherry

    Hi, I plan on moving to another town in Texas at the end of September or first week of October that is about 3 hours away from where I am currently living. If I get a full time job that pays $21 an hour and offers benefits like medical insurance..what is my budget when looking for an apartment to rent? I really need to know if I can afford this move with my son and spouse but have no clue how to start a budget. Thanks

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sherry,
      Start your budgeting by printing out and completing this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ The example shows typical expenses for a single person, but you must know what the essential expenses are for your family, so include those.
      Start your budgeting by using the formula max. rent or 35% of your estimated take-home pay and see if that leaves you enough money for discretionary expenses and a little room for savings. Or you can earmark your spouse’s earnings for savings. Your formula max. rent will be probably somewhere around $900, depending on your actual taxes and deductions. Good luck! Let us know how the budget worksheet works for your family.

      Reply
  177. Avatar Ashlee M

    Hi, my name is Ashlee
    I have recently begun looking at apartments, as I have been paying rent for years living with my parents and I buy my own groceries, wash detergent and other care items. As I make 13.25 an hour, but I don’t not have a car. I pay 78.00 a month for public transportation. I work about 34-35 hours every week. I am interested in a 1-bedroom apartment listed at 535.00 with water, sewer, and trash included. I also eat at home a lot because I enjoy home meals. My cell phone bill is 56.00 dollars a month. The only bills this apartment would have for certain is electric and internet/cable. Feels like I bring home 1,428 dollars a month. My medical insurance is covered through my job. Could you please tell me if this is affordable for me, and make me out a budget? Please Help. . . . . I have posted before, I really need help.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Ashlee,
      You can actually make your own budget by printing out this First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/. We have done the rough numbers for you below and it looks like you should be able to carry that $535 rent, especially is you save on food and laundry expenses by visiting your parents frequently. But, you need to double check that everything is included. Make sure you get into a habit of saving some money each month. You can follow these savings tips https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/06/turn-penny-pinching-millenial-better/ to get started. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet

      Monthly take-home pay $1,428

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$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
      Credit Cards $0
      Child care
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,116

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $312

      Reply
  178. Avatar Sasha Paul

    Hi I’ve been living with my mom but she’s told me I have to find somewhere to stay in a least a month and a half. I just started working at a new job. I get paid $12 a hour weekly. I work about 25 to 30 hours a week. The only bills that I pay rn is my braces bill which is only $155 a month and my phone bill which is $45 a month. I don’t own a car because my boyfriend does… I’m just trying to figure out how much I can afford in rent for a month and whether or not I’m able to get a studio or 1 bedroom.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sasha,
      Depending where you live, you are probably looking at a roommate share for $300. We estimate at 25-hour weeks, because the rent is do even in your low hour months. Even that low rent will leave you very little for discretionary expenses. You can probably save some money on food and do your laundry at your mom’s vs. laundromat, but still you cannot afford much more. Print out and use this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ for a more accurate budget. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) 25 hrs $15,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$2,250
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $12,750
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,063

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent -$300
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$60
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  $0
      Gas $0
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) $0
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.) $0
      Cell Phone -$45
      Student Loans $0
      Credit Cards $0
      Child care $0
      Other fixed bills – Braces -$155
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$900

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $163
      Savings (target 10% of take-home)

      Reply
  179. Avatar Joseph L

    I’m retired. I live in my paid off home and want to move to a apartment. My annual income after taxes is 54K. What can I afford to rent? I put $500.00 away for car payments weather I buy a car or not.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Joe,
      Just a reminder to you and all our readers. Do not include your full name or too many details of your life. This is the internet and anybody can see your comment. (We took some details out of your comment.)
      With your relatively high income and low expenses, you can probably easily carry our max. formula rent of $54,000/12 = $4,500 a month take-home income * 35% = $1,575. However, depending where you live you can probably get a very nice place for less than that. For a more accurate estimate print and complete this worksheet https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Good luck!

      Reply
  180. Avatar Ashlee M

    Hi, my name is Ashlee
    I have recently begun looking at apartments, as I have been paying rent for years living with my parents and I buy my own groceries, wash detergent and other care items. As I make 13.25 an hour, but I don’t not have a car. I pay 78.00 a month for public transportation. I work about 34-35 hours every week. I am interested in a 1-bedroom apartment listed at 535.00 with water, sewer, and trash included. I also eat at home a lot because I enjoy home meals. My cell phone bill is 56.00 dollars a month. The only bills this apartment would have for certain is electric and internet/cable. Feels like I bring home 1,428 dollars a month. My medical insurance is covered through my job. Could you please tell me if this is affordable for me, and make me out a budget? Please Help

    Reply
  181. Avatar Pierra

    Hi My Name is P

    I currently make 12 an hour – 80 hours per pay period. My car insurance is $250 with no car payment, cell phone is $50, and I have to pay my student loans soon. How much can I afford in rent per month.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi P,
      Let’s see if we can use the new printable budgeting worksheet for you. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Print out a copy a follow along.
      Lets start by estimating your annual income and taxes.
      Income $12*40*50=$24,000
      Taxes estimated from this site https://www.totaltaxinsights.org/Calculator for Clark County, Illinois. You need to estimate for your own county and state.
      Federal Income Tax $1,654
      State Income Tax $1,100
      Social Security Tax $1,488
      Medicare Tax $348
      Total $4,590

      Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $24,000
      Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$4,590
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) Insurance $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $19,410
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,618

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$500
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$100
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  -$250
      Gas -$50
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) $0
      Groceries/Food -$300
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
      Health Insurance (See below 3.) $0
      Cell Phone -$50
      Student Loans $0
      Credit Cards
      Child care
      Other fixed bills $0
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,290

      Cash left for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) $328
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for Discretionary Spending, $328

      As you can see, you could probably manage $500 a month in rent, meaning that you may be looking for a roommate share. Even that does not leave a lot of leeway and no room for savings. But, you got to live somewhere, so if you learn to cook and otherwise live frugally, you might even be able to squeeze a little bit for savings. Did you find the worksheet helpful? Let us know. And good luck!

      Reply
      • Avatar Miamia22

        Hi I make 11.70 hourly, car payment and insurance $513,. $300 for rent, $60 phone bills, $54 health insurance. Can I afford a $800 apartment??? Any advice please

        Reply
        • MFA Editors MFA Editors

          Hi Miamia,
          Print out the budgeting worksheet here https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/
          and use it to make a budget with your real expenses. Based on numbers you gave you can only afford right now a very inexpensive roommate share. You have basically chosen to spend your rent money on your car. $800 rent will result in a cash shortfall of $515 each month, even before spending anything on discretionary expenses. Good luck!
          First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
          Your Budget

          Annual Salary (see below 1.) $23,400
          Less: Estimated taxes 25% (see below 2.) -$5,850
          Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
          Estimated annual take-home pay $17,550
          Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,463

          Monthly Essential Living Expenses
          Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$800
          Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$160
          Car loan or lease payment -$513
          Car Insurance  in above
          Gas -$50
          Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125)
          Groceries/Food -$300
          Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$40
          Health Insurance (See below 3.) -$54
          Cell Phone -$60
          Student Loans
          Credit Cards
          Child care
          Other fixed bills
          Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,977

          Cash shortfall before Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$515
          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.

  182. Avatar Aaron

    Hi my name is Aaron
    I make $15/hr
    $650 a month for car insurance and car payment
    $25 a week for gas
    My job gives me full coverage of health and dental insurance
    Can I afford $1100 a month with probably $250+ for utilities?

    Reply
  183. Avatar Shanti

    I make 11.25 an hour 40 hours a week… I currently pay half of daycare which is 50 a week, my insurance is 50 a months, my cable is 69 and I was wondering if renting at 650 water included would be suitable?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Shanti,
      According to our rough calculations $650 is too much. See below. However, you should print out our budgeting worksheet and input your actual numbers. https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/08/budgeting-bootcamp-budgeting-worksheet-single/ Perhaps our estimates of your expenses are too high or maybe you receive some money in child support. Good luck!
      First Apartment Budgeting Worksheet
      Your Budget
      Annual Salary (see below 1.) $22,500
      Less: Estimated taxes 15% (see below 2.) -$3,375
      Less: Other deductions (health insurance, 401K, etc.) $0
      Estimated annual take-home pay $19,125
      Monthly take-home pay (above /12) $1,594

      Monthly Essential Living Expenses
      Maximum Rent = 35% of take-home -$650
      Utilities 20% of rent (electric, water, trash, internet) -$130
      Car loan or lease payment $0
      Car Insurance  $0
      Gas $0
      Public transportation monthly pass (est. $125) -$125
      Groceries/Food -$450
      Laundry/Dry Cleaning -$60
      Health Insurance (See below 3.) -$50
      Cell Phone -$80
      Student Loans
      Credit Cards
      Child care -$200
      Other fixed bills
      Total Monthly Essential Expenses -$1,745

      Cash SHORTFALL for Savings and Discretionary Spending 4.) -$151

      Reply
  184. Avatar Brian A

    Hi,
    I make 13.25 an hour . On a 12 hour swing shift. Max hours a week is 48 . On my short week I work 36 hours with Overtime on some weeks .
    The rent would be 565
    My car payment is 270
    Car insurance 150
    Cell phone 100
    Credit cards about 40
    Internet 50

    Reply
  185. Avatar Tommy

    Hello, my name is Tommy. I work 40 hours a week and make $16.75 an hour. I have my car insurance which is $75, my loan is $150, my phone bill is $30, and a car payment of $300. Will I be able to afford a $850 rent a month?

    Reply
  186. Avatar Anninha

    Hi my name is anna I work 40 hours a week and get paid $12.50 an hour I have my car insurance which is $100 , gym $36, medical $75 ,phone $160 and credit card of $25 payment how much will I have left to rent a room?

    Reply
  187. Avatar Aleisha

    Apartment rent for 530 I make 11hr 30 hours a week i also have a salon 400-88 a week I have a car payment of 250 and cell phone 50 credit credit card bill 35

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Aleisha,
      It looks like you’ll be able to manage that $530 rent and other living expenses, if you average about $200 a week or more from your salon. If you make more than that, put the extra into savings, so you’ll build an emergency fund for those months when the salon is a little slow. Good luck!

      Aleisha’s Budget
      Hours 30
      Pay/hr $11.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $16,500
      Salon est. $200 a week. $10,000
      Total annual pre-tax $26,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($6,625)
      After tax take-home $19,875
      Per month take-home est. $1,656
      Max. rent -$530
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$106
      Car payments -$250
      Car insurance $0
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$50
      Credit Cards -$35
      Student Loans $0
      Health insurance $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $295
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  188. Avatar Tommi

    Hello

    I live in LA County and I am trying to figure out how much i can afford comfortable. I make $20 and hr. I work on average 10hrs of over time on top of the 80hrs worked bi weekly. Car note is roughly 255, car insurance is max 120, health insurance is 163 and one credit card of 60 a month.

    Reply
  189. Avatar Sarah

    Hi, I am considering a job in Seattle where I will get paid on average $28/hr for FT. I am considering moving into an apartment right around the corner for $1600/mo. I have some money saved for a deposit, and I have no major payments other than car insurance. My calculations don’t seem to agree with the chart here, can you help me out?

    Reply
  190. Avatar Jay

    Hi there !
    I get paid 17/hr and typically work 40 hrs a week.I do have a student loan that I pay monthly at $50. I also have a credit card debt I pay typically $35 and $30 dollars on that I will clear up soon. Our food I average is at 225 a month. My insurance is $88 a month. And I just found a place for rent at $950. My girlfriend does work as well who will be moving in together but her job has her on call right now so I kind of didnt include that. But shes looking for better work. My job does offer overtime so most of the month I do work an extra 10 hours at 18/hr. Also during Christmas we get bonuses outside of our main pay (doorman) typically around 8k-10k so typically I make about 40k+ a year. I am looking at raise in the next 2 years that would increase my pay to 60k salary at my job. How would that also look like ? Thank you.

    Reply
  191. Avatar Deeana Lee

    Hi! Moving to Texas and found an apartment for 700.50 , I have the first three months of rent saved and I got a job for 10.75 an hour, working 30+ hours a week . I’ll be on the hunt for a better paying job but will this be enough to keep me under a roof until then ? (Maybe a few months)

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Deeana,
      You did not tell anything about your other expenses. If you don’t have a car and can use public transportation, you’ll have $193 shortfall a month, before discretionary expenses. You could probably hang in there for a few months because your rent is paid for a time. What would be a better solution is to get a roommate share so you don’t get too deeply in debt before you get a better-paying job. Meanwhile, take all extra hours you can at work and live extra frugally and keep fingers crossed for a raise or better job. Good luck!
      Deeana’s Budget:
      Hours 30
      Pay/hr $10.75
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $16,125
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($2,419)
      After tax take-home $13,706
      Per month take-home est. $1,142
      Max. rent -$701
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$140
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance $0
      Gas est. $0
      or Commuting est. -$125
      Groceries/food est. -$250
      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 -$193
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  192. Avatar Shazelle

    Hello I make 13.00 work 40 hours a week, making 80 hours in two weeks. I have my car which is $229 & my insurance $225 and my phone bill $120. How much should I be paying for rent ?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Shazelle,
      With your relatively high car expenses, you’ll be looking at a $400 roommate share and even at that you’ll have to live frugally. Why is your car insurance so high? Do you have really bad credit score? Are you living in a high-theft area? Try to shop around and see if you could find a less expensive plan. Good luck!
      Shazelle’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $13.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $26,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($5,200)
      After tax take-home $20,800
      Per month take-home est. $1,733
      Max. rent -$400
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$80
      Car payments -$229
      Car insurance/ phone -$225
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$120
      Credit Cards $0
      Health Insurance $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $289
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  193. Avatar Quanisha Mays

    Hi I make $11 hour 40hrs a week and looking for a apartment that’s affordable I only have a phone bill on average Is $80 . Can you help me what I can afford on average .

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Quanisha,
      The basic formula max. rent on your income is $481. It looks a little tight, but is probably doable if you learn to live frugally. Good luck!
      Quanisha’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $11.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $22,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($5,500)
      After tax take-home $16,500
      Per month take-home est. $1,375
      Max. rent -$481
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$96
      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/ bank loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $253
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  194. Avatar Charles

    I make 18.57hr, have a car payment of 272, insurance is 55, cc min is 55, bank loan 60, paying rent at 1225, have a son, single parent, student loans 130, how much should I be paying for rent?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Charles,
      $1,225 rent is about twice what you could comfortably afford with your income and listed expenses. Hope you can find a nice place for you and your son in the $600 range. Good luck!

      Charles’ Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $18.57
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $37,140
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($9,285)
      After tax take-home $27,855
      Per month take-home est. $2,321
      Max. rent -$600
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$120
      Car payments -$272
      Car insurance -$55
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$450
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$80
      Credit Cards -$55
      Health Insurance $0
      Student Loans/ bank loans -$190
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $409
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  195. Avatar nicole

    I work as a pharmacy tech making $11.04 an hr and paid biweekly. I have a car note thats almost paid
    for, well it will be in October. I have paid off my credit card(s), So, my lists of things to pay monthly is car insurance $ 290, phone bill $54.25, life ins $48.54 quartley. I DO HAVE SOME LATE PAYMENTS. STUDENT LOANS T0 PAY $ 50.00 HOW MUCH CAN I AFFORD FOR RENT?

    Reply
  196. Avatar Sarah

    Any chance for some help with my budget? I work a new job where I make $30k a year (40 hours a week) and then another online part time job at $13/hr, around 15 hours a week. i have a current lease at $550, but am moving in 3 weeks. I’m considering moving back to my parents to save up more money before I rent elsewhere again. Where I’d like to move to be closer to work, the rent is typically $1200 a month. I’m not sure I can afford this or not with what I make.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sarah,
      If we use both of your jobs, then your max. rent is somewhere around $750, assuming you have typical car-related expenses. With the FT job only, that $550 is a good range. $1,200 is really too much and we’d hate to see you move back home, save a bunch of money, and then use it to cover a rent shortfall. Moving back home to boost your savings and then getting a place you can afford without having to dip into savings on a monthly basis would seem like a good option. Good luck!
      Sarah’s Budget:
      Hours PT job 15
      Pay/hr PT job $13.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $9,750
      Main job $30,000
      Total pre-tax $39,750
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($9,938)
      After tax take-home $29,813
      Per month take-home est. $2,484
      Max. rent -$750
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$150
      Car payments -$300
      Car insurance -$150
      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) -$248
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $416
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  197. Avatar Trevor

    Hello! I make 16/hr working 40 hours a week. I have my car fully paid off so no car payment, but my insurance costs $150. I have some credit card debt at the moment but i plan to have all of that paid off within the next few months. Any help for a budget plan would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Trevor,
      Looks like you can manage the formula max. rent of 35% of your take-home pay. Good luck!
      Trevor’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $16.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $32,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($8,000)
      After tax take-home $24,000
      Per month take-home est. $2,000
      Max. rent 35% of take-home -$700
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$140
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance -$150
      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 $340
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  198. Avatar Evelyn

    HI! I make 11 an hour about 40 hours a week sometimes more or less. What would my budget be for $550 a month for rent. paying car insurance of 150$ and cell phone bill of 80$

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Evelyn,
      If you live frugally, you should be able to manage that $550 rent. Put any overtime moneys towards savings. Good luck!
      Evelyn’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $11.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $22,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,300)
      After tax take-home $18,700
      Per month take-home est. $1,558
      Max. rent -$550
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$110
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance -$150
      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) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $278
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  199. Avatar Jonathan

    I make 14 an hour. 40-43 hrs a week. What would my budget be for 800 a month rent. I walk to work so no car payment.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Jonathan,
      Looks like you can handle that $800 rent, but it does not leave much room for savings. Make sure you save all overtime pay. Good luck!
      Jonathan’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $14.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $28,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($7,000)
      After tax take-home $21,000
      Per month take-home est. $1,750
      Max. rent -$800
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$160
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance $0
      Gas est. $0
      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) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $370
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  200. Avatar Jayla

    Well I should probably live with my mom. I work 30 hours every two weeks and make 10.75/hr how much rent can I afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Yes Jayla, you need to live with your mom for now. Would you be happier counting your pennies in a $200-$250 roommate share than living at home with ready meals and maybe even laundry done for you. Wait to move until your hours and pay pick up. Now is your chance to save a nice nest egg of several thousand dollars, for the day when you are ready to move. Good luck!
      Jayla’s Budget:
      Hours 30
      Pay/hr $10.75
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $16,125
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($2,419)
      After tax take-home $13,706
      Per month take-home est. $1,142
      Max. rent -$200
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$40
      Car payments incl insurance $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 $357
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  201. Avatar Claudia

    Ugh this is so frustrating, based on this chart I can’t even afford a studio in the worst part of my city or surroundings. I make $26.55/hr. I was looking at a $1,750/mo 1 br condo 550sq ft close to work with most utilities included. Except for gas/electricity, entertaiment. I also have another option which is further away at $1,470 but i will have to pay more due to distance from work and family, such as gas and bridge tolls. This is so unfair!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Claudia,
      You could actually afford that $1750 place, as long as you do not have other big fixed bills. However, it would take more than half of your take-home and you could not pass the landlord’s formula. Also, it would leave little room for savings. They may approve you for the $1,470 place. You could save more money and offer to pay extra security or get a guarantor. Meanwhile, you could probably get a really nice roommate share with your income. Good luck!
      Claudia’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $26.55
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $53,100
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($13,275)
      After tax take-home $39,825
      Per month take-home est. $3,319
      Max. rent -$1,750
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (10% of rent) -$175
      Car payments -$300
      Car insurance -$150
      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) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $474
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  202. Avatar Kianna

    i make 10.00/hr an average 37hours a week , i have a car payment of $190.00 bi-weekly how much can i afford on rent an can u provide a budget plan also please to save money

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Kianna,
      If you monthly car payment is 2 * $190 =$380, it will be very difficult for you to afford even a roommate share. And what about car insurance? And how did you qualify for such a high car payment on your pay? Did someone guarantee it? Even if you get a roommate share for $250 or so, it will still require for you to live very frugally. Maybe stay where you are a little longer and build a good emergency fund of at least $2,000 before moving. Pretend that you have your own place and save all the moneys you’d spend living on your own. You’ll quickly see if you are able to move out. Let us know how things work out and good luck!
      Kianna’s Budget:
      Hours 37
      Pay/hr $10.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $18,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($2,775)
      After tax take-home $15,725
      Per month take-home est. $1,310
      Max. rent -$250
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$50
      Car payments (2 * $190) -$380
      Car insurance ??
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$200
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$30
      Cell phone -$80
      Credit Cards $0
      Health Insurance $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$50
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $220
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  203. Avatar Becky

    Just got reduced to $11/hour, 40 hours a week. Current rent $725, Car payment $170 and car insurance $150. What are my options?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Becky,
      What a bummer! Clearly, the current rent is not affordable to you with your new pay rate. Even if you cut your food budget to bare minimum (rice and beans? and Ramen?) it will be tough. Can you find a new job or a second job to bring in extra cash? Do you have room for a roommate? Can you trade in your car and use public transportation? Try to solve the shortfall dilemma as soon as possible, before you fall into a credit card debt hole. Let us know how things work out, we are rooting for you. Good luck!
      Becky’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $11.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $22,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($4,400)
      After tax take-home $17,600
      Per month take-home est. $1,467
      Max. rent -$725
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$145
      Car payments -$170
      Car insurance -$150
      Gas est. $0
      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) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month -$143
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  204. Avatar Monica

    Hello i make $32/hour at 40hrs a week i was wondering if $1600 rent is affordable i have a $500 car payment and insurance is $180 month

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Monica,
      Looks like you can manage $1,600 rent eve with your high car costs. If you are planning to rent a house vs. an apartment, then you need to budget more for utilities. Double check all the numbers, including your take-home. Good luck!
      Monica’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $32.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $64,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 30% ($19,200)
      After tax take-home $44,800
      Per month take-home est. $3,733
      Max. rent -$1,600
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (10% of rent) -$160
      Car payments -$500
      Car insurance -$180
      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) -$373
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $450
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  205. Avatar Shaniece

    Hi, I make $11/hr 35 hrs/wk and no car payments. Have $50 phone bill. How much rent can I afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Shaniece,
      You can get your max. rent right from the chart for $11/35 hours or $481. Remember, that’s maximum, so aim for rent in the $400 range. It may be a roommate share, depending on where you live. If you are frugal and cook at home, you should be even able to save a little money. Double check your actual take-home. Good luck!
      Shaniece’s Budget:
      Hours 35
      Pay/hr $11.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $19,250
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($2,888)
      After tax take-home $16,363
      Per month take-home est. $1,364
      Max. rent -$481
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$96
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance $0
      Gas est. $0
      or Commuting est. -$125
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$50
      Credit Cards $0
      Health Insurance $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $271
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  206. Avatar Christian lopez

    Hi I make 9.65 at 20-25 hours a week at one job and 10.20 at 17.5-20 hours per week at another. I have $600 in car insurance every six months due to a couple of wrecks. $90 cell phone bill every month. $125 in credit card debt every month.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Christian,
      We figured the numbers on $10/37.5 hours a week. If you can keep your rent to the $300-$350 range you should be able to manage, especially as you have some extra hours at times. You can do better on the groceries, too, if you cook at home and take lunches to work. Any extra money should go to savings and paying off that credit card debt. Good luck!
      Christian’s Budget:
      Hours 37.5
      Pay/hr $10.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $18,750
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($2,813)
      After tax take-home $15,938
      Per month take-home est. $1,328
      Max. rent -$300
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$60
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance -$100
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$90
      Credit Cards -$125
      Health Insurance $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $263
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  207. Avatar HL

    Thank you for posting this calculator. I wish that more businesses & government would use a calculator like this. I don’t know how people afford to live. I’ve cut every spending category I can (no cable, a prepaid phone/plan, no vacations, no extras whatsoever). I’m working 2 jobs & with rent increasing by $200 per month in my area, I’m struggling really bad. There is no option for OT work, otherwise I’d work that, in addition to my 2nd job. Saving for any type of retirement is out of the question. It’s about surviving day to day right now.

    Reply
  208. Avatar Caroline

    Hello My SO and I are looking into renting our first apartment. He makes 10/hr full time and I make 13/hr full time as well. We each have about 550$ a month in bills/cars/student loans we pay. We have sat down and looked through our finances and have a rough idea on what we can spend on rent, being first timers we are not to entirely sure if our calculations are right, can you Please help us get a idea of our rent budget? That you.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Caroline,
      A rent in the $800 range looks doable to you two, leaving enough for all the other living expenses and even some room for savings. Kudos for you two for doing careful budgeting together before your move. Double check the numbers. Good luck!
      Caroline’s Budget:
      Hours-C 40
      Pay/hr $10.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $20,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,000)
      After tax take-home -Caroline $17,000
      Hours-BF 40
      Pay/hr $13.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $26,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($5,200)
      After tax take-home – BF $20,800
      Cash take-home -combined $3,150
      Rent -$800
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$160
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance payments $0
      Gas est. ($50 each) $0
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. for 2 -$450
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. for 2 -$60
      All Bills -$1,100
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loan $0
      Target savings 10% of take-home $0
      Amount left for discretionary expenses $580
      *Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  209. Avatar Martin

    Hi, i make $11.50 the hour while my SO makes $10.50. We are getting raises soon though and are wondering what our budget would look like. We both do 35 – 40 hours a week and have a car payment for 275. Would it be possible to do rent at around $880?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Martin,
      Looks like you can carry $880 rent. We did the budget with 35 hours each, so you have a little room for savings in the 40 hour weeks. Double check the numbers. Good luck!
      Martin’s Budget:
      Hours-Martin 35
      Pay/hr $11.50
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $20,125
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,019)
      After tax take-home -Martin $17,106
      Hours-SO 35
      Pay/hr $10.50
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $18,375
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($2,756)
      After tax take-home -SO $15,619
      Cash take-home -combined $2,727
      Rent -$880
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$176
      Car payments -$275
      Car insurance payments -$150
      Gas est. ($50 each) -$50
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. for 2 -$450
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. for 2 -$60
      Phones -$160
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loan $0
      Target savings 10% of take-home $0
      Amount left for discretionary expenses $526
      *Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  210. Avatar Raven

    Hi. I make $11.09 per hour and 40 hours a week. I have car insurance that’s about $100 a month. How much rent can I afford with utilities and living expenses included?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Raven,
      Looks like you could afford about $500 a month in rent, which may mean a roommate share. Good luck!
      Raven’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $11.09
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $22,180
      Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($4,436)
      After tax take-home $17,744
      Per month take-home est. $1,479
      Max. rent -$500
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$100
      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 25% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $309
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  211. Avatar John

    I make 23 per hour work 40hr per and I have alot of debt from making bad decisions( over 10k I’m debt). I start the job next Monday and i really want to revamp my finances and financial stabalibity. Please help me come up with a plan or solution. Thank you for the insight and testitestimonies.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi John,
      We are assuming that you have a car and related costs, so your monthly fixed bills are relatively high. Luckily, you make a good pay, so you should be OK. If you can keep your rent in the $600 range (it may be a roommate share) and save 25% of your take-home pay, you can almost pay off your debt in one year. And you’ll still have enough money for discretionary expenses, so you don’t have to live like a monk. (Just try not to get a high-maintenance GF until your debt is paid!) Let us know if this makes sense. Good luck!
      John’s Budget:
      Hours 40

      Pay/hr $23.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $46,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 30% ($13,800)
      After tax take-home $32,200
      Per month take-home est. $2,683
      Max. rent -$600
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$120
      Car payments -$350
      Car insurance -$150
      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 25% of take-home) -$671
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $323
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
      Saving over 12 months $8,050

      Reply
  212. Avatar Kristen L.

    I receive $700 a month. My husband makes $13.50 and works 40 hours a week. We pay $181 in credit card debt, $234 for our car loan, and $100 for car insurance. What would a good budget look like for us?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Kristen,
      It looks like you should be able to carry about $700 a month in rent and still leave you enough for discretionary expenses and maybe a little savings. Try to chip away that credit card balance. You can probably do better that our averages for the groceries and phones and put the money in savings. And if that $700 you receive is not taxable, then you’ll have another $1,200 a year to savings. Good luck!
      Kristen’s Budget:
      Total/yr ($700/ month) $8,400
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($1,260)
      After tax take-home -Kristen $7,140
      Hours-Husband 40
      Pay/hr $13.50
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $27,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($4,050)
      After tax take-home – Husband $22,950
      Cash take-home -combined $2,508
      Rent -$700
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$140
      Car payments -$234
      Car insurance payments -$100
      Gas est. ($50 ) -$50
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. for 2 -$450
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. for 2 -$60
      Cell phone est. -$160
      Credit Cards -$181
      Student Loan $0
      Target savings 10% of take-home $0
      Amount left for discretionary expenses $433
      *Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Destiny,
      Based on our surveys, the average cell phone payment is about $80 a month. It maybe more if you pick an expensive phone and have to pay that off in monthly payments. The payment also depends on what your credit score is. If it is low (600’s or less) you have to pay more. Price out all the phone providers in your area and pick the best plan for your needs. Good luck!

      Reply
        • MFA Editors MFA Editors

          Hi Mya,
          Assuming you have no fixed bills, including car payments, you can probably get by with a roommate share in the $300 range. Double check all the numbers. Good luck!
          Mya’s Budget:
          Hours 40
          Pay/hr $10.00
          Total/yr (50 wks paid) $20,000
          Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($5,000)
          After tax take-home $15,000
          Per month take-home est. $1,250
          Max. rent -$350
          Utilities, incl. cable/internet est. -$100
          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 $255
          Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

  213. Avatar Allison Edwards

    Hi, I make $13/hr and work a set 36 hrs one week and then 48 hrs the next. It goes back and forth. What’s can I afford for rent and what other factors should I take in??

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Allison,
      Unless you left off big hunks of fixed expenses, it looks like you should be able to afford a rent in the $600-$650 range and still be able to cover typical expenses, save some money and have enough left over for discretionary items. Good luck!
      Allison’s Budget:
      Hours 42
      Pay/hr $13.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $27,300
      Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($5,460)
      After tax take-home $21,840
      Per month take-home est. $1,820
      Max. rent 35% of take-home -$637
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$127
      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) -$182
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $329
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  214. Avatar Nautika

    Hi, I make 10$ and hr & work 35-40 hrs an week no set hrs.. I am paid bi-weekly. I don’t have any car insurance or anything. I do have an monthly income for groceries itself. I’m looking to rent out an 1 bedroom for 650 at the most total electric. Will I qualify for the apartment with money left over for my light bills & maybe cable?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Nautika,
      You make somewhere around $20,000 a year at 40 hour weeks, so a typical landlord formula gives you max. rent of $500. A reasonable landlord would not allow you to rent a clearly unaffordable place at $650. Even $500 would be tight, because you don’t work steady 40, but often only 35 hours. You should base your rent target on the lower hours, so you don’t get into trouble in slow months. Try finding a nice roommate share for $400 or under and you should be able to manage. But, double check the numbers first. Good luck!
      Nautika’s Budget:
      Hours 35
      Pay/hr $10.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $17,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($3,500)
      After tax take-home $14,000
      Per month take-home est. $1,167
      Max. rent -$400
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet -$100
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance $0
      Gas est. $0
      or Commuting est. -$125
      Groceries/food est. -$100
      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 $322
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  215. Avatar Nicole

    Hi! I work 50 hours/ week. 40 at $12/hr 10 at $18/hour. Not quite certain on the tax rate but I live in Mississippi if that makes a difference. My car is paid off and my father handles the insurance. I have a credit card but the balance is $0. If I use it in the future the monthly payment is $30. My only expenses will be rent, grocery and gas for about a 15 mile daily commute. I’ve been working on figuring out my budget for my move but would like your suggestion on how much I can afford to pay for rent. Thanks in advance! :)

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Nicole,
      We would like you to base your rent on that 40 hour income and save the overtime moneys. You should be able to get a nice place in Mississippi, even in the Jackson area, for $600 a month. Depending on water rates and usage, your utilities may be a little higher, but you’ll still be fine with all that extra overtime money in the bank. You are clearly careful with money (no credit card debt!) and are lucky to have supportive parents, so you are in a great shape to get your own place. Good luck!
      Nicole’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $12.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $24,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($6,000)
      After tax take-home $18,000
      Per month take-home est. $1,500
      Max. rent -$600
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$120
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance $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 $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $310
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  216. Avatar Elle H

    Hello! I just moved to Seattle and I will be making $25/hour and work 40 hours a week in the downtown area. I have student loans at $300, health insurance at about $400 and am trying to not have a car to avoid other expenses, however that means needing to live closer to work which raises rent. Any suggestions?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Elle,
      Looks like you can manage rent in the $1,000 range and maybe even have a little room for saving an emergency fund. See below. Double check the numbers. Good luck!

      Elle’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $25.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $50,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 30% ($15,000)
      After tax take-home $35,000
      Per month take-home est. $2,917
      Max. rent 35% of take-home -$1,021
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$204
      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 -$400
      Student Loans -$300
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $447
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  217. Avatar Sherena

    Hi! I make 17.75 an hour and work 40 hours each week. I have a car payment of 488.43, phone bill 119 and car insurance of 115. What can I afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sherena,
      Based on your income you should be able to afford a rent in the $800 range. However, as many of our readers you get tripped up with your high car expenses. Your car, insurance and gas is estimated to cost you about $650 a month, so you are looking at max rent in the $600 range and even that will not leave a lot of room for savings. Double check all the numbers below. Are you still on parent’s health insurance, or pay for your own, for example? Make sure you have $2,000+ saved before you move and then put aside some money every paycheck fro an emergency fund. Good luck!

      Sherena’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $17.75
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $35,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($8,875)
      After tax take-home $26,625
      Per month take-home est. $2,219
      Max. rent -$600
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$120
      Car payments -$488
      Car insurance -$115
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$118
      Credit Cards $0
      Health Insurance $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $388
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  218. Avatar Austin N

    Starting a new job in NYC in a month: $45.19/hr, 40+ hrs a week. No debt, take home would be $2k every week after maxing out my 401k (I can adjust this). No idea what to budget for a decent place in the city because everything there is ridiculously expensive. Spending $2k on rent seems absurd, and studios/1br are all at least $3.5k.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Austin,
      First, we assume that you mean you take home $2,000 every two weeks, not weekly. And since your employer offers 401K, we further assume you have health insurance and vacation benefits, so we estimated your annual gross income at 52 weeks pay. (We normally use 50 weeks, to build a little safety, because many of our readers work hourly jobs that don’t provide sick or vacation days.) You are in a very high tax bracket, so it’s really smart of you to max. out on your 401K.
      We estimated your max. rent from your calculated gross income ($93,995/40) and utilities at 10% rather than normal 20%, because in NYC heat, water and trash collection are included in rent, so you only pay electric and cable/internet. You should be able to find a decent studio for $2,350. Look uptown in the Bronx, in Long Island City (1-2 subway stops from Manhattan) or Upper East Side near East River where the new Second Avenue Q subway line has made the area more attractive to the millennial crowd. In NYC, you’ll pay high rent, but you do not need a car, which is a huge saving. (Those $3,500 places are in luxury rentals with doormen, roof deck, gyms, basketball courts, etc. You do not need to spend that kind of money to have a great first apartment experience in NYC!)
      Because of your very high income, even after high taxes and high rent, it looks like you have plenty of room left for additional savings and all the other living expenses. Good luck!
      Austin’ Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $45.19
      Total/yr (52 wks paid) $93,995
      Est. taxes/deductions 48% ($45,118)
      After tax take-home $48,878
      Per month take-home est. $4,073
      Max. rent -$2,350
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (10% of rent) -$235
      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) -$407
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $536
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  219. Avatar Cherry Creek Apartments

    Thank you So Much for this informative Post Share with us.

    Reply
  220. Avatar Karen

    Hi! I’m looking for a studio or 1 bedroom under $625 a month. I make 14.19 an hour and work 40 hrs a week. I take home about $815 every other week. My monthly expenses include 128 for car insurance (car was paid in full), 120 for cell phone, approx. 70 for my cat, less than 100 for groceries. I’m also saving about $100 a month as well. I know it says 700 in the chart above, but I would rather be conservative and aim cheaper. Can you break it down for me and show me what I can afford? Thanks!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Karen,
      Using your numbers, it looks like you could afford the take-home pay formula maximum of 35%. Your taxes/deduction seem a bit high, maybe you put money into a 401K at work (great!) or have high health insurance. You should be able to find a better phone plan. Also, we are suspicious that you spend less than $100 a month on groceries. If that’s the case, would you be willing to share how you do it. Looks like your cat eats better than you do. Good luck!

      Karen’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $14.19
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $28,380
      Est. taxes/deductions 30% ($8,514)
      After tax take-home $19,866
      Per month take-home est. $1,656
      Max. rent 35% of take-home -$579
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$116
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance -$128
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$100
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$120
      Credit Cards $0
      Health Insurance $0
      Student Loans $0
      Cat -$70
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$100
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $352
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  221. Avatar Lei

    Hello, I make $17.50 per hour & work 40 hours per week. Car payment $370, Insurance $120, phone $50, & $65 for two credit cards. Would I be able to move out with a roomate?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Lei,
      If you can find a roommate share in the $500-$600 range you could do it and even save money. Double check your expenses, and add any that are missing. And try to pay off those credit cards. Good luck!

      Lei’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $17.50
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $35,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($8,750)
      After tax take-home $26,250
      Per month take-home est. $2,188
      Max. rent -$500
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$100
      Car payments -$370
      Car insurance -$120
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$50
      Credit Cards/Gym -$65
      Health Insurance $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$219
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $374
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  222. Avatar Nicholas Wilson

    I make $20/hr @ 40 hours a week. My expenses monthly are 100 for car insurance, 60 for phone, 20 for gym membership, around 240 for fuel.
    I’m extremely hesitant to move out.
    Can I afford the suggested rent max and still save money for a house?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Nicholas,
      $240 for fuel? What do drive? A camper?
      Anyway, the formula max. rent on your income is $1,000. You could probably afford it and still save some money, but if you are looking to speedsave for a house, find a less expensive place. Or if you stay where you are and save at least half of your take-home, you could accumulate a $30,000 nest egg in 2 years, enough for a down payment of at least a small condo in many areas. Moving out on your own is an important step in adulting, so you might want to do it anyway before you buy your own place. Good luck!
      Nicholas’ Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $20.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $40,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($10,000)
      After tax take-home $30,000
      Per month take-home est. $2,500
      Max. rent -$1,000
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$200
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance -$100
      Gas est. -$240
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$60
      Credit Cards/Gym -$20
      Health Insurance $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$250
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $290
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  223. Avatar Nicole

    Hi!! I make $12 an hour and I work between 33-36 hours a week. My car note is $265 mo. Phone bill is $48. I haven’t yet started paying back my student loan of $22k which will be income based if i do. Can I afford to move out of my parents house?!!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Nicole,
      The answer is no. Even a roommate share seems to be out of reach, after you start paying your loan. (We estimated payment at 10% of your take-home.) Stay at home, save as much as you can, if possible pay off your car, and wait to move until you are on a firmer financial footing and have received a raise or two at work. A year goes by very fast. You did not mention car insurance and gas, so we estimated on averages. If your parents cover those costs, a roommate share is within reach, but you’ll be still scraping by, especially after you start paying off your loans. Good luck!
      Nicole’s Budget:
      Hours 35
      Pay/hr $12.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $21,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($4,200)
      After tax take-home $16,800
      Per month take-home est. $1,400
      Max. rent -$350
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$70
      Car payments -$265
      Car insurance -$150
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$48
      Credit Cards/All Bills $0
      Health Insurance $0
      Student Loans (est 10% of take-home) -$140
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month -$13
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  224. Avatar Emily

    Hi! I make $20/hr and work anywhere from 20 to 60 hours a week. My work is pretty seasonal, but I work overtime every chance I get to make up for the lean-hour times. It probably averages out to 50 hrs/wk over the course of the year, as I also use my paid time off/vacation hours to fill out hours on short weeks. My monthly bills include student loans at $100/month, car note $300/month, car insurance $120/month, and a credit card I’m currently paying off at $100/month. I’m currently driving approx. 2 hrs to get to work (and another 2 to get back home) usually six days a week. I need to move ASAP to save my car. How much rent can I afford to pay in a major city?

    Reply
  225. Avatar Rachel

    Hi, I make $14.19 an hour, and a dollar more on weekends. I work anywhere from 32-40 hours a week. My monthly expenses are my car note $320, car insurance $150, health insurance $88, internet $60, cell phone $130 and two credit lines which total up to around $100 per month. How much would I be able to afford per month rent wise? I do plan on paying off both my credit lines before I move out, however.

    I also plan on getting a second job that should start around $11 an hour. I am planning on working that job part time. Would I be able to handle rent with my first job though?

    Reply
  226. Avatar RYAN

    I make 13.50 per hour and I work 40 hours a week with a 350 monthly car payment. HOw much rent can I afford afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Ryan,
      The max. rent chart says $675 based on your pay and hours, but that car is a budget killer, plus you must also pay car insurance and gas. It looks like you’ll be starting out in a roommate share like so many others. Even at $400 for a share, you still don’t have enough to start saving some money. Stay where you are for a while longer and keep saving, so you’ll be a a better position to move out in a few months. Good luck!

      Ryan’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $13.50
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $27,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($5,400)
      After tax take-home $21,600
      Per month take-home est. $1,800
      Max. rent -$400
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$80
      Car payments -$350
      Car insurance -$150
      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) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $350
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  227. Avatar Alex

    Hello, I work 2 jobs and currently attend college and have a loan of 5000 insofar but will be transferring over to community college instead within the next year or so seeing as it’ll be easier on my wallet in the long run.

    job 1 pays 9 an hour and I work about 30-40 hours a week at night and get on average a paycheck of about $320 usually a little more.

    Job 2 pays 10.50 an hour and I work 40-50 hours a week during the day (I love both my jobs don’t worry, I just prefer working rather than sitting at home doing nothing) and get on average a paycheck of about $420+

    i’m searching for a roommate to move in with but that doesn’t seem very likely to happen so i’m looking for apartments in the $700 zone. Is this enough or should I search cheaper? I also do not have a car currently though I am studying for the test and am saving for a sturdy 1000-2000 dollar one to get me by by next year and by then I’ll try to get car insurance under my parents name so I will pay 200 or less for insurance.

    cell phone bill is $30
    I do laundry at home
    I am currently saving all the money I am receiving until I officially go out and move within the next two years so i’m only allowing myself to have 100 in spending money for food, activities, and the such. $50 automatically gets put into my bank account every Friday (I just started this last month and had an emergency in which I had to spend 100 so I currently have $50 in there) and whatever I have leftover at the end of the month I take out and put in a little piggy bank (‘ve yet to count it)

    (sorry for the long message)

    Reply
  228. Avatar Andre' Battle

    Hello, I make $17 an hour and work 30 hours a week. My checks after taxes is $400 and I’m paid weekly. I don’t own a car and currently I’ll soon be married. I would like to buy an apartment. How much rent would I be able to afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Andre,
      As you can see on the rent chart, at $17 an hour/30 hours your max. rent is $638. However, you are planning to get married soon and you should start saving a little so that you get off to a good start, so look for something in the $500 a month range. If you live frugally, you can start putting 10% of your income into savings. This is especially important if you are planning to buy your own place at some point. Good luck!

      Andre’s Budget:
      Hours 30
      Pay/hr $17.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $25,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($6,375)
      After tax take-home $19,125
      Per month take-home est. $1,594
      Max. rent -$500
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$100
      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/ Gym Membership $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$159
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $290
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  229. Avatar Jaz

    Hi, i work 30hrs a week and make 13 per hour. How much rent can i afford?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Jaz,
      You can get your number right from the chart in the post.
      https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/
      For $13/30 hours, the max. formula rent is $488 a month. If you don’t have any fixed bills that should work for you OK, even if you’ll have less for discretionary expenses than we’d like to see. Why don’t you consider a roommate share to start with, so you’ll see how well you manage with your finances, before you sign for your own lease. Good luck!
      Jaz’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 -$488
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$98
      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/ Gym Membership $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $251
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  230. Avatar Carlos

    Hi I’m Carlos I make 10 an hour and I work 56 hours a week so I work every day, I get 16 hours of over time every week so I would get paid 15 an hour for 16 hours and my gf is going to start working and not then likely she will get paid 10 an hour 40 hours a week we would waste about 100 on food what would we be able to waste on a apartment ?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Carlos,
      Anyone who works 56 hours a week is going places, but we would not recommend that you stretch your rent to the point that you must always work those hours. We did a rough budget for you and your GF using 40-hour weeks for both, and calculating max. rent at 35% of combined take-home. See below. (We estimated higher tax rate for you because the overtime money kicks you up to higher tax bracket.) Now, as we always say, if you can get a nice place for less than that $933 formula rent, the better for you and more money to savings. If you can find something in the $800 range, you’d have more money for discretionary expenses. Also, we don’t know if your employers provide health insurance. If not, you need to add that cost to the expenses.
      What we recommend that you do with the extra overtime money is to save it towards your own place or for education or for starting your own business. Good luck!

      Carlos’ Budget:
      Hours-Carlos 40
      Pay/hr $10.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $20,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($5,000)
      After tax take-home – Carlos $15,000
      Hours-GF 40
      Pay/hr $10.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $20,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,000)
      After tax take-home – GF $17,000
      Cash take-home -combined $2,667
      Rent -$933
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$187
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance payments $0
      Gas est. ($50 each) $0
      or Commuting 2 peole at $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 -$267
      Amount left for discretionary expenses $360
      *Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Carlos’ extra hours income/month:
      16 hours*$15*4 weeks less 25% tax $720

      Reply
  231. Avatar Nate A.

    I make $15 an hour, 40 hours a week, and I get paid weekly. My checks are about 460 each week with taxes taken out. My cell phone bill is $140 a month. What rent should I shoot for?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Nate,
      Our basic formula for $15/40 hours (https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/), or $750 a month rent, works pretty well for you, covering typical expenses and leaving $370 for discretionary expenses and savings. However, if you can find a nice place in the $500-600 range, you’ll be able to start building your savings account and still have enough money to enjoy your first apartment experience. Good luck!
      Nate’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $15.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $30,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($7,500)
      After tax take-home $22,500
      Per month take-home est. $1,875
      Max. rent -$750
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$150
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance $0
      Gas est. $0
      or Commuting est. -$125
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$140
      Credit Cards/ Gym Membership $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $370
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  232. Avatar angel

    Hello, I make $19.06 an hour and I work 22.5 hours a week. Also I am getting a second job which will bring in an extra $100 every two weeks. My expenses are $100 a month for various bills. How can I save for an apartment?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Angel,
      If you are now living rent free, you are in a great position to hyper-charge your savings. After paying your monthly bills, food, cellphone, etc, take $100 a week for discretionary expenses and save the rest. That will also show you how much housing expenses (rent + utilities) you can comfortably carry when you move. Our rule-of-thumb is that you need to have 3 times your monthly rent saved before moving, but you should aim to save more, in order to leave you an emergency fund after your moving-related expenses. Good luck!

      Reply
  233. Avatar Taylor Nielsen

    Hello, I make 21$ an hour and I work 40 hours a week. I have a huge car insurance payment of $260 a month. I do not have a car payment, cell phone payment, or any debt.My work pays for all of my work and personal gas. I am looking to get into an apartment for 700$ a month including utilities. Will I be able to afford this apartment and still save for vacations?

    Reply
  234. Avatar Jordan Gilbert

    Hi, I make 21/hr and get 25-50+ hours a week. Usually 30-40 hours on average. My car payment is 225, insurance is 155, 75/month credit cards, 120 student loan.

    Reply
  235. Avatar Alani

    Hi I make 10.75 every two weeks full time, I have a car payment of 351 and insurance is 100. Will I be able to afford a one bedroom of $575?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Alani,
      The answer is no, you cannot afford that $575 1BR. That rent and typical expenses leave you $88 short each month. Your car expenses take a third of your take-home and that does not leave you enough room for rent and other living expenses. Look for a roommate share in the $250-$300 range and you could make it living frugally but still not have room for savings. If you are living at home, stay there and pay off your car before you move out. Or trade it in for a cheaper one. Good luck!

      Alani’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $10.75
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $21,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,225)
      After tax take-home $18,275
      Per month take-home est. $1,523
      Max. rent -$575
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet 20% -$115
      Car payments -$351
      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
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month -$88
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  236. Avatar Jenna

    Hello i make 15/hr at 32 hours a week…i can pick up extra shifts to make it 40..getting paid weekly. I currently have a car note of $80 and car insurance $120. Single parent of 1. I pay about $100 for credit card payments. What would be my target rent amount?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Jenna,
      There are many things we don’t know about your situation, such as how old is your child. Does increasing your hours increase your childcare costs? Using the information you shared, it looks like you should be looking in a $400 range. (We hesitate to run the numbers with 40-hour weeks that would increase your target by couple of hundred a month, because that may increase your childcare costs.) Even though the numbers at 32 hours look tight, you do have a little flex with the extra hours that you can use to make up any monthly shortfall or use for savings. Can you try to get rid of the credit card debt before you move? That would ease your monthly bill stress. Good luck!

      Jenna’s Budget:
      Hours 32
      Pay/hr $15.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $24,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,600)
      After tax take-home $20,400
      Per month take-home est. $1,700
      Max. rent -$400
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$100
      Car payments -$80
      Car insurance -$120
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$450
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$80
      Credit Cards -$100
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $280
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  237. Avatar Chase

    Hi I make $11 an hour 40 hours a week. My gf Servs at a restaurant and maybe averages 250-300 a week 5 days a week. The apartment we are looking at is 630 a month (includes cable/internet) we have no kids. I have a 419 car payment a month and that’s it. We don’t have to put down a deposit because we are taking her parents apartment and we’re just using there’s (thank god, saves us $1k)

    Could we afford it ?

    Reply
      • Avatar zach

        that car payment likely would end up screwing you. $400 a month??? thats nearly rent where i live

        Reply
        • MFA Editors MFA Editors

          Zach, you are so right. When someone has high car expenses, 25%, 35% of take-home,or even more, they will have really hard time finding a place they can afford.

    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Chase,
      It will be tight at $630 because 25% of your take-home goes to your car expenses, and with all the other typical expenses there’s no room for savings. Also, how does your GF get to work? Is one car enough for both or does she use public transportation? Before you sign the lease, double check all the numbers. Good luck!
      Chase’s Budget:
      Hours-C 40
      Pay/hr $11.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $22,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,300)
      After tax take-home – Chase $18,700
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) GF $12,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($1,800)
      After tax take-home – GF $10,200
      Cash take-home -combined $2,408
      Rent -$630
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$126
      Car payments -$418
      Car insurance payments -$130
      Gas est. ($50 each) -$50
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. for 2 -$450
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. for 2 -$60
      Cell phones 2 est. -$160
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loan $0
      Target savings 10% of take-home $0
      Amount left for discretionary expenses $384
      *Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  238. Avatar Julio

    Average 18-20/hr ($10 base pay + delivery/tips), working 36 hours. Pay is pretty consistent
    Car paid off
    $40 phone bill
    $70 car insurance
    Still living at home and looking to see what i can afford, once i pay off all 5k worth of credit card debt

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Julio,
      Looks like you can easily afford the basic formula rent, 35% of your take-home, or $709 a month, even $800 if you must. Now, if you can find a nice place you’d love to call home for less, the better for you because you’ll have more room for savings and you won’t ever get into a credit card trap again. Good luck!
      Julio’s Budget:
      Hours 36
      Pay/hr $18.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $32,400
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($8,100)
      After tax take-home $24,300
      Per month take-home est. $2,025
      Max. rent -$709
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$142
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance -$70
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phones -$40
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$203
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $472
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  239. Avatar Griselda

    Hi my husband and i are a family of 5 we have three children under the age of three 2,1,and a newborn he makke 14.50 and works 40 hours bi weekly pay we need our own place what kind of rent would be best for us
    Please and thank you

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Griselda,
      It is very hard to try to figure out a budget not knowing any of your monthly expenses. Do you have a car? Do you have credit card debt? Any loans? Assuming that you don’t have any fixed monthly bills and you are home taking care of the babies, so no childcare expenses, we think that $600 or so rent should work for you and even leave you a little room for savings. (You should find out if you qualify for some rent assistance.) Take a look at the budget below and adjust it with your actual numbers. Hopefully, you live in an area where apartments are available in the range that you can afford. Good luck!

      Griselda’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $14.50
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $29,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 10% ($2,900)
      After tax take-home $26,100
      Per month take-home est. $2,175
      Max. rent -$600
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$120
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance $0
      Gas est. $0
      or Commuting est. -$125
      Groceries/food est. -$500
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$80
      Cell phones -$160
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$100
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $490
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  240. Avatar Kyle

    I make 13.90 and work 44 hours per week.
    150-car insurance
    410-credit cards
    I plan to move in with my boyfriend and a close friend into a two bedroom. What should I try to keep my rent under?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Kyle,
      You are getting killed by your credit card payments. You need to start chipping off that balance.
      If you can get a place in the $1,000 a month range, you should be able to manage your one third share of the rent and still save 10% of your take-home each month. See below. Living with your BF and a friend, you’ll probably save some more in groceries and other apartment expenses, so you should end up a little more than $270 for discretionary expenses and be able to save that 10%. Good luck!
      Kyle’s Budget:
      Hours 44
      Pay/hr $13.90
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $30,580
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($7,645)
      After tax take-home $22,935
      Per month take-home est. $1,911
      Max. rent -$350
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$70
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance -$150
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$80
      Credit Cards -$410
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$191
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $270
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  241. Avatar Lydzz

    Hi I’m making 18.50/hr 36 hours per week. Currently pay 650 for rent, 60 for internet, 50 for student loans and 112 for phone bill. I want to save up around 6000 for upfront payment for a car. Will it take me a long time to save up for this?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Lydzz,
      It will take you about year and a half, with typical living expenses. The rough budget below estimates 19 months, saving 15% of your take-home. If you can save 20%, it will go down to 14 months. If you want to do it faster you need to live very frugally, or, if you have the space, take in a short-term roommate. Or find a side hustle that pays couple of hundred a month. Good luck!

      Lydzz’s Budget:
      Hours 36
      Pay/hr $18.50
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $33,300
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($8,325)
      After tax take-home $24,975
      Per month take-home est. $2,081
      Max. rent -$650
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$130
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance $0
      Gas est. $0
      or Commuting est. -$125
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$112
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loans -$50
      Savings (target 15% of take-home) -$312
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $362
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.
      Months to save $6,000 19

      Reply
  242. Avatar Kyra

    I will be making 19.13/hour 40 hours a week in 2 months. Currently at 17.69/hour. I pay 160.00 phone bill, 100.00 for car insurance, min for 2 credit cards -40.00/piece, and 410.00 car payment, currently staying with parent. Looking to move into 1 bedroom 896.00/month no utilities included. Do you think this would work ? Thanks for your advice.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Kyra,
      It looks like even with the higher pay you’ll be getting in 2 months, it’s really too tight to pay $896 in rent. It does not leave you enough for discretionary expenses and nothing for savings. Even a rent in the $700 range would leave you little for savings. Why don’t you stay with your parents a bit longer and try to pay off your credit card debt before you move. And look for a cheaper phone plan. Yours is double our reader’s average. Good luck!

      Kyra’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $19.13
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $38,260
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($9,565)
      After tax take-home $28,695
      Per month take-home est. $2,391
      Max. rent -$896
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$179
      Car payments -$410
      Car insurance -$100
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$140
      Credit Cards -$80
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $196
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  243. Avatar Annika

    I work about 27hr/ wk at $10 per hr. I want to rent an apartment at $640 a month. I have some money saved for rent at that amount for 6months. With all of the usual expenses, do you think I can afford an apartment at that amount and get approved?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Annika,
      The numbers tell that you are not yet ready to move out. With your estimated take-home of less than $1,000 a month, you cannot afford $640 rent. And we’d hate to have you spend all your savings just to make the rent for a year. What would you do when the lease is up and the savings are gone?
      If you can get your hours up to 40 a week, you’ll have a better change of getting your own place, but even then $640 is too much, target closer to $500. See below.
      Good luck!
      Annika’s Budget:
      Hours 27

      Pay/hr $10.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $13,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($2,025)
      After tax take-home $11,475
      Per month take-home est. $956
      Max. rent -$640
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$128
      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/ Gym Membership $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month -$357
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Annika’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $10.00

      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $20,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,000)
      After tax take-home $17,000
      Per month take-home est. $1,417
      Max. rent -$640
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$128
      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/ Gym Membership $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $104
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  244. Avatar Stephanie

    Hi I work 45 hours a week getting paid 15.30 an hour , I pay 520 in child care $50.00 a month in dance $ 75 phone bill . What would be an ideal rent amount . I can’t seem to budget myself properly .

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Stephanie,
      Being a single mom can make budgeting really tricky, so we understand your dilemma.
      Based on your income, your formula max. rent is about $844. However, you have child care costs that take out a big chunk of your cash flow, so we’d estimate that you should target rent no more than $600 a month. (Before you move try to save up closer to $3,000 so you have a little emergency fund left after all the move related expenses.) See rough budget below. As always, we advice you to make sure to test the budget with your actual numbers to confirm that it works for you. Good luck!

      Stephanie’s Budget:
      Hours 45
      Pay/hr $15.30
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $34,425
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($5,164)
      After tax take-home $29,261
      Per month take-home est. $2,438
      Max. rent -$600
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$120
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance $0
      Gas est. $0
      or Commuting est. -$125
      Groceries/food est. -$450
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$60
      Cell phone -$75
      Credit Cards $0
      Dance -$50
      Child Care -$520
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $438
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  245. Avatar Sean

    I make 18.25 an hour working at least 40 hours a week. I have a $400 car payment $190 for insurance $80 for student loans $140 for phone bill. What rent amount would I be looking at here?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Sean,
      You make a nice pay per hour, but, as we have seen many times before, your budget is foiled by your high car expenses. With gas, loan and insurance payments you are spending over $600 a month on your car, so as you see below there is no way you could afford a place you should based on your income. You also pay a lot for your phone. You should be able to find a better plan. Our chart says that your max. rent target at $18/hr. 40 hrs/week is $900, but with your fixed expenses that will leave your only $1 a month towards discretionary expenses and 0 for savings. As we have said before, we like to see about $100 a week, or $400 a month, for discretionary. In your case that would mean max. rent of $500, instead of the formula $900. And, you’d still not have much flexibility for saving. Hope this helps. Good luck!

      Sean’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $18.25
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $36,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($9,125)
      After tax take-home $27,375
      Per month take-home est. $2,281
      Max. rent -$900
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$180
      Car payments -$400
      Car insurance -$190
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$140
      Credit Cards/ Gym Membership $0
      Student Loans -$80
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $1
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  246. Avatar Drew

    I make 10/hr but i should be getting a raise sooner this year to 11/hr, but if you could please calculate for me with 10, or both, up to you. My car insurance is 75/month, i pay 65/month on my phone. Its just me so there is no way im spending 300/month on food, not if i do it right, i’m talking rice, pasta, peanut butter, you know, cheap shit. I have 9k in the savings. I work roughly 35 hours a week and get paid every two weeks, but i make about 50 (low)- (130)high on tips every two weeks. so 100 (low) – (260)- high a month. And my car saves a lot of gas, so i only spend really 20$ a month on gas…., but to keep the car maintained thats a whole different expense we can put that under the priority potential spending’s.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Drew,
      Because of the extra safety valve you have from your tip income and your high savings, you should be able to manage up to the max. formula rent for $10/ hr. and 35 hours, or $438 a month, maybe even a little more. You may be able to spend less than $300 for groceries/food, but also keep in mind that should cover your work lunches and all non-food supplies you’ll need. Anyway, we took it down to $250. If you work in food service and get free work lunches that would help. Keep your good savings record going by trying to put away your tip income. Good luck!

      Drew’s Budget:
      Hours 35
      Pay/hr $10.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $17,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($2,625)
      After tax take-home $14,875
      Per month take-home est. $1,240
      Max. rent -$438
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent or $100) -$100
      Car payments/loans, etc. $0
      Car insurance -$75
      Gas est. -$20
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$250
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$65
      Credit Cards/ Gym Membership $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $252
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  247. Avatar theone

    hi. i make $13/hr currently and have student loans/car payment totaling near $700/month. how much can i afford considering this? i have been renting a room for $400/month.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Theone,
      It seems that even that $400 you are now paying for a room is tight because of your high other fixed expenses. Stay where you are for now and try to chip away some of your high payments before moving to a more costly place. Good luck!

      Theone’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $13.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $26,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($5,200)
      After tax take-home $20,800
      Per month take-home est. $1,733
      Max. rent -$400
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$80
      Car payments/loans, etc. -$700
      Car insurance $0
      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 $83
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  248. Avatar Marla

    Hello, I make 22.00 an hour. I normally work 64 hours (overtime pay) or more per week. I currently live with my parents but I will be leasing a duplex in August with rent of $950.00. I will not have a roommate. Other expenses include sewage, electric, gas and trash. I pay $388.00 for car insurance, $300 for my car payment, $90 phone bill, $25 for gym membership, about $100 gas for car monthly. Just wondering if I’m good with this rent payment on my income.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Marla,
      It looks like you can afford that $950 apartment even if we just include a 40-hour week. With your heavy overtime, you can pay all your bills and even have an opportunity to save substantial amounts out of your extra overtime pay. Good luck!

      Marla’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $22.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $44,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($11,000)
      After tax take-home $33,000
      Per month take-home est. $2,750
      Max. rent -$950
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$190
      Car payments -$300
      Car insurance -$388
      Gas est. -$100
      or Commuting est. $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$90
      Credit Cards/ Gym Membership -$25
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $367
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  249. Avatar Samantha K

    I make 13.75 and there are apartments around here that are a 2 bedroom, 1019 with utilities included and no need for a deposit. I have a truck and know others with a truck so I won’t need to rent a uhaul. So…can I afford it ???

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Samantha,
      With your income, your max. rent target is in the $650-$700 range, so $1,019 is far above your affordable rent. Do you need a 2BR? A smarter plan would be to look for a smaller place in your target rent range. Good luck!

      Reply
  250. Avatar Caleb

    I make $17 a hour and work 40 hours a week and get paid weekly I pay $60 a month for my car and $100 a month for phone and pay $105 a month for phone but that’s it what can I afford???

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Caleb,
      It looks like you’ll be able to afford up to the formula rent for $17 an hour/40 hour week of $850 and even have money left for some savings.
      Of course, you do not have to pay $850 rent if you can get a suitable place for less than that. Good luck!

      Caleb’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $17.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $34,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($8,500)
      After tax take-home $25,500
      Per month take-home est. $2,125
      Max. rent -$850
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$170
      Car payments -$60
      Car insurance $0
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting (includes gas?) $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$105
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $550
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  251. Avatar Daisy

    Hi I make 8.75 hrly 40 hrs a week & I have a 196 car insurance. 30 cell bill What would be my affordable rent?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Daisy,

      Our rent chart indicates that your max. rent is about $400. However, you’d be safer looking for a roommate share in a $300 range. Even at that level it will be tight, leaving less for other discretionary expenses that we’d recommend, only about $65 a week vs. $100 we like to see, and probably nothing for savings. See rough budget below. Good luck!

      Daisy’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $8.75
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $17,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($2,625)
      After tax take-home $14,875
      Per month take-home est. $1,240
      Max. rent -$300
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$60
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance -$196
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting (includes gas?) $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$30
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loans $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $264
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  252. Avatar Savy

    My boyfriend and I want to get a 2 bedroom apartment in the $775 – $815 range. We both make $11 an hour. The only amenities included are high speed internet and cable. He has no car payment, but my car payment is $350 a month. Our phones are $100 a month. Would this be a good investment?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Savy,
      Assuming you both work 40 hours a week, it looks like the rent of $815 is easily doable for you, leaving you enough for savings and discretionary expenses. If that gets you a place you love, it’s a good move but paying rent is never an investment, it is always an expense. See budget below. Good luck!

      Savy’s Budget:
      Hours-S 40
      Pay/hr $11.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $22,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,300)
      After tax take-home – Savy $18,700
      Hours-BF 40
      Pay/hr $11.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $22,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,300)
      After tax take-home – BF $18,700
      Cash take-home -combined $3,117
      Rent -$815
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$163
      Car payments -$350
      Car insurance payments $0
      Gas est. ($50 each) -$100
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. for 2 -$450
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. for 2 -$60
      Cell phone est. -$100
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loan $0
      Target savings 10% of take-home -$312
      Amount left for discretionary expenses $767
      *Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  253. Avatar Dylan

    I make $15/hour . Only expenses are $250 car payment , $40 phone payment , and 80 insurance . What would be my ideal monthly apartment rent cost ?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Dylan,
      Looks like about $600 rent would be max. that is doable to you, but it would not leave much room for savings. If you can find something for less, that much better. (It may be a roommate share.) You’ll need at least $2,000 in bank before you move and anything over that will be a starting emergency fund. Good luck!

      Dylan’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $15.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $30,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($7,500)
      After tax take-home $22,500
      Per month take-home est. $1,875
      Max. rent -$600
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20%) -$120
      Car payments -$250
      Car insurance est. -$80
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$40
      Credit Cards $0
      Student loan $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $395
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  254. Avatar Anne

    Hello, I am making $20 per hour and work 40 hours per week. I also have to pay car insurance ($200) and utilities ($100) per month. Can I afford to pay $1000 per month for rent?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Anne,
      Looks like you’ll be able to manage $1,000 rent and still cover all your expenses and even put money in savings. Good luck!

      Anne’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $20.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $40,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($10,000)
      After tax take-home $30,000
      Per month take-home est. $2,500
      Max. rent -$1,000
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20%) -$200
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance est. -$200
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$80
      Credit Cards $0
      Student loan $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$250
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $380
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  255. Avatar Alex

    Hello i was wondering what would be my max rent I can afford at 18.50/hr 40hrs. I do get bonus every 3 months but I won’t add that. My expenses are 120 car, 50 car insurance, 60 credit card, 50 cell, and 60 dollars internet

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Alex,
      It looks like you could go up to the formula max. rent of $925 and still comfortably cover your expenses and put money in savings, although probably not the full 10% we included in the rough budget below. Now, if you can get a nice place for less, more power to you and your savings! Meanwhile, pay off that credit card balance ASAP. Good luck!

      Alex’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $18.50
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $37,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($9,250)
      After tax take-home $27,750
      Per month take-home est. $2,313
      Max. rent -$925
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20%) -$185
      Car payments -$120
      Car insurance est. -$50
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting (includes gas?) $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$50
      Credit Cards -$60
      Student loan $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$231
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $301
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  256. Avatar Teresa

    Hello I am in Tpa FL I make 13$ an hour and work 40 hours per week. I have cell phone of 85.00 per month electric is appx 150 per month and cable is 145.00 per month. My cars paid for and so is my car ins paid for yearly. I get 540.00 a month in child support. What should my target rent be?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Teresa,
      If you base your rent target on your income only, without child support factored in, you could go to max. $650 a month. (If another $100 will get you into significantly better school district it may be worth a stretch as long as you can trim some expenses vs. our estimates.) At that level you should have enough to cover your other living expenses and put some money to savings. See rough budget below. This assumes that your child is young. (If you have a growing teenager or a couple of them there is never enough money to keep them fed and in shoes!) We included an estimate for car insurance because you need to put money aside for that bill so you have it when it becomes due. Family budgeting is not really our specialty but we hope this helps. Good luck!

      Teresa’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $13.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $26,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($3,900)
      After tax take-home $22,100
      Per month take-home est. $1,842
      Child support $540
      Total Cash in $2,382
      Max. rent -$650
      Utilities, electric + cable/internet -$295
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance est. -$150
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. -$450
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$60
      Cell phone -$85
      Credit Cards $0
      Student loan $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) -$184
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $458
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  257. Avatar Patricia

    Hi I’m a senior citizen living on social security alone. I receive $925 a month. Could you please tell me what rental price I should be looking for please and thanks!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Patricia,
      If we use our rough rule-of-thumb of 35% of your cash income, then your max. rent is $324. That would leave you about $150 a week to cover all your other expenses. Not knowing where you live, $324 may not be enough to get you any type of rental. You may look into a senior co-housing/roommate situation if any are available in your community.
      Good luck!

      Reply
  258. Avatar Karch

    Hi, I make $16 an hour and work 40 hours a week.
    My current expenses include:
    $700 in student loan debt
    $230 car payment
    $100 car insurance
    $40 cell phone bill
    I am looking to get an apartment in the $650 to $700 range. Does this seem reasonable?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Karch,
      It does not look like you’ll be ready to get your own place right now. Between your student loan and car payments and estimating typical food/grocery expenses, you cannot even cover your most necessary expenses. If you can stay where you are, take a year and try to pay off as much of your debt as you can and also save at least $2,000 for the initial rent and moving expenses. See your rough budget below. Good luck!

      Karch’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $16.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $32,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($6,400)
      After tax take-home $25,600
      Per month take-home est. $2,133
      Max. rent -$650
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20%) -$130
      Car payments -$230
      Car insurance est. -$100
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting (includes gas?) $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$40
      Credit Cards $0
      Student loan -$700
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month -$107
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  259. Avatar Stella

    Hi, I make $17 a hour & work 40hrs a week, so that’s $2,720 a month, before taxes. I just found an apartment for $1,150. The $1,150 includes free heat, electricity & hot water. My only major bill is my daughters child care which is $86.40 a week/ $345.60 a month. I also have a credit card with a small limit of $500, that I signed up for just to build my credit. I only use the credit car to pay bills, then I turn around and pay it off so that I can re-use it again for bills. I own my car and I’ve paid up my car insurance for the next 6months. What do you think, is $1,150 a good price considering utilities are included? Can you create a budget for me? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Stella,
      We are sorry to have to tell you that $1,150 is far too much for rent. It would take 48% of your estimated take-home pay and would leave you less than $100 for discretionary expenses. See rough budget below. We included an estimate for car insurance, assuming that you pay the average amount a month. Even though your insurance bill was just paid you’ll have to start saving for the next one each month. Perhaps you have some child support money coming in. Is it possible to find a place in the $750 range that would work for you and the girls? Then you’d have about $500 a month for other expenses and maybe even put a little into savings and not be under stress every month to make your rent. Good luck! We are rooting for you.

      Stella’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $17.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $34,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 15% ($5,100)
      After tax take-home $28,900
      Per month take-home est. $2,408
      Max. rent -$1,150
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet -$50
      Car payments $0
      Car insurance est. -$150
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting (includes gas?) $0
      Groceries/food est. -$450
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$80
      Credit Cards $0
      Childcare -$346
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $92
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  260. Avatar Jessica

    Hello,
    I’m trying to figure out how much rent I can afford. I make $15/hr on 40 hours a week. My car payment is $230, car insurance is $200, phone is $127, groceries $160 a month, gas roughly $80 a month. I was looking to get a two bedroom with a roommate but currently have no one that will move out with me. So i’m looking into a 1 bedroom but need to know how much I can afford on a one bedroom with my current expenses. Thanks so much!

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Jessica,
      The formula rent with your hourly rate and hours is $750, but it is too much, because you spend $510 on your car expenses. Also, your grocery/food estimate looks low by about $100, unless you cook at home and bring lunches to work and avoid those afternoon runs to the Starbucks. Keep on looking for a 2BR and a roommate. You’ll save about third in rent and still have your own bedroom. (See this post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2017/04/how-much-can-you-save-in-rent-living-with-roommates/) Then you’ll have room in your budget also for savings. See rough budget below. Good luck!

      Jessica’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $15.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $30,000
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($7,500)
      After tax take-home $22,500
      Per month take-home est. $1,875
      Max. rent -$750
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$150
      Car payments (incl. insurance?) -$230
      Car insurance est. -$200
      Gas est. -$80
      or Commuting (includes gas?) $0
      Groceries/food est. -$160
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$127
      Credit Cards $0
      Other Debt $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $138
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  261. Avatar Fahed Alhalaby

    Hi im 25, I get paid $11/hr and I work about 62 hours a week, so I get paid overtime after the 40 hour limit. I’m looking to move to an apartment I also will be having a roommate as well since I don’t really like to live alone. What do you think is the best budget option for my situation?

    Reply
  262. Avatar Ashley

    Hi im 22 and i get paid 9.00 hourly 40hours a week And I get over time I’m trying to rent an apartment for 722 month will i be able to afford this or get approved with is pay?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Ashley,
      That $722 apartment is far too much for you. Our formula says that your max. rent is $450.
      Based on your hours and pay, you probably take home after taxes about $1,300 a month, so your $722 rent plus at least $100 for utilities would leave you $478 a month for food, getting to work and back, and all other living expenses. You’d be rent poor, always stressing over bills, and not have any money left over for fun. Why don’t you look for a roommate share and see how you manage with all your expenses when your rent is in the $400 range. Good luck!

      Reply
  263. Avatar Luisa

    Can you help me figure out what I can afford as a single parent? I make $2,500 monthly on salary, working 40 hours a week. I also get $200 a month for child support. My car note is $600 a month aside from my car insurance of $181 a month, phone bill $120 a month, and other misc bills like gas, food, my child’s necessities, etc

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Luisa,
      We calculated your budget without the child support because you’ll need that money for the child’s expenses. Based on your salary (we assume it was pretax), you should be able to afford 35% or $788 in rent, but as you see below, it is not going to work. Like many of our readers you are tripped up by your high car costs. In your case even $400 rent would be tight. Is there any way you could trade in that car for a less expensive one. It would also cut your car insurance bill. Looks like you have to stay put where you are until you get some relief on your car costs. Good luck!
      Luisa’s Budget:
      Monthly salary $2,500
      Less: est. taxes 10% -$250
      Per month take-home est. $2,250
      Max. rent 35% of take home -$788
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$158
      Car payments -$600
      Car insurance -$181
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$125
      Credit cards $0
      Student loan $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $9
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  264. Avatar Eric Long

    Hey i was wondering if you can help me figure out my budget as well. As of right now I am living in my moms house trying to save up and figure out a budget to move out on my own once again successfully. I make approx $16.25/hour and 80 hours every two weeks. I live in Cleveland, Ohio. My current expenses not including what i will need for rent and utilities is: Car payment: $350, Car Insurance: $146 (hopefully going down), cellphone: $140, approximate gas: $95. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Eric,
      Based on your hours and pay max. rent for you is just over $800. However, because of your high car expenses and high cell phone bill, that is far too much. You should be targeting rent below $500 to have enough money for other expenses and even be able to save a little. Continue living with your mom and start saving at least $500 a month to test out how you’d manage on your own. If you have a few thousand saved by the time you move, you’ll have a safety net when unexpected expenses hit. You’ll probably end moving in with a roommate or two, as do so many first time renters, in order to bring your rent down to an affordable level. Good luck!
      P.S. Remember to get your mom a nice present for Mother’s Day. You are lucky that you have the option to stay with her until you are ready to move.
      Eric’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $16.25
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $32,500
      Est. taxes/deductions 25% ($8,125)
      After tax take-home $24,375
      Per month take-home est. $2,031
      Max. rent -$500
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$100
      Car payments -$350
      Car insurance -$146
      Gas est. -$95
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone -$140
      Credit cards $0
      Student loan $0
      Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $360
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  265. Avatar Billy

    Hey I know you’ve been helping a lot of people fine tune there budget on here and I’ve been struggling to make my own any help is greatly appreciated I make 21/hr and pay 675 for my car 80 for phone 375 in other debt as well as 200 for commuting to work I work 40+ hrs per week what do you think I could afford???

    Reply
  266. Avatar Jesston Johnson

    I make 9.14 dollars an hour and i work 35 hours every two weeks would i be able to keep the rent paid with a 9 year old son and no other help what should i do

    Reply
  267. Avatar Purefire21

    Hello, I work two jobs. Job 1 I make 13.40 per at 35 hrs a week. Job 2 I make 12.35 at 40 hrs per week.
    Car note with insurance is 359 and I am looking for a Apartment in East orange NJ.

    Reply
  268. Avatar Socram

    Hello i make $13 per hour 35 hrs a week. commute is $140 a month, gym membership $100 a month, phone bill $45, groceries $100 a month. How much can i afford on rent?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Socram,
      Let’s see if our formula works for you. See below. Looks like the $500 range would be doable for you for rent. You probably underestimate how much you spend on food. $3.33 a day = $100 a month is really skimpy for groceries/food – are you on a Ramen only diet? A typical monthly grocery bill for a man is about $300. Plug into the budget format your real numbers and see how it looks. Good luck!

      Socram’s Budget:
      Hours 35
      Pay/hr $13.00
      Total/yr (52 wks paid) $23,660
      Est. taxes 15% ($3,549)
      After tax take-home – $20,111
      Per month take-home $1,676
      Max. rent -$569
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (10% of rent) -$150
      Car payment est. $0
      Car insurance est. $0
      Gas est. $0
      or Commuting -$140
      Groceries/food est. -$100
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone est. -$45
      Gym -$100
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loan $0
      Savings (10% of take-home) -$168
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $364
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
      • Avatar Lisa

        Hello, I’m trying to see if I can afford to move out and how long it’ll take until I can. I make $13.50/hour 40 hours a week and get paid weekly. My phone bill is about $90/month, food $150/month, student loans $282/month (at the moment, might go up to around $400 in a yr or two), gas for my car $60/month. These are all rough estimates, could be off by a few bucks. No car note or insurance.

        Reply
        • MFA Editors MFA Editors

          Hi Lisa, with your hours and pay your max. rent is $675 in our chart. However, that looks a too high because of your student loans, particularly as you expect the payments to go up to $400. (Keep your credit rating up and you can probably refinance for lower payment in the future.) The good news is that your car seems to be paid by someone else (parents?)so all you have to cover is gas. Your food/grocery expense looks low by at least $100, keep in mind you have to also pay for toilet paper and detergent, etc. when you live on your own.
          See rough budget below. If you can find a nice place in the $500 range, you should be able to manage nicely and even be able to save a little money in an emergency fund. Make sure you have $2,000 or so in the bank by the time you start looking. Good luck!
          Lisa’s Budget:
          Hours 40
          Pay/hr $13.50
          Total/yr (50 wks paid) $27,000
          Est. taxes/deductions 20% ($5,400)
          After tax take-home $21,600
          Per month take-home est. $1,800
          Max. rent -$675
          Utilities, incl. cable/internet (20% of rent) -$135
          Car payments (incl. insurance?) $0
          Car insurance est. $0
          Gas est. -$60
          or Commuting (includes gas?) $0
          Groceries/food est. -$150
          Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
          Cell phone -$90
          Credit cards $0
          Student loan -$282
          Savings (target 10% of take-home) $0
          Cash left for all other expenses/Month $368
          Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

  269. Avatar David

    Hello I need help, I am 30 and I make $30 hourly 40 hours a week plus ot, what should my budget for rent be just me by myself no room mates I live in the DC metro area

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi David,
      The chart says that at $30/40 hours your max rent is $1,500. You should be able to get a nice place on your own for even less than that in the DC area. However, you did not mention any other bills you may have, so let’s see how it would work with typical first apartment expenses. See below. Looks like you should be OK, even at $1,500 rent, but you would be able to really boost up your savings if you got a place for less, but still nice enough that you’d be happy to walk in your front door after long day at work. Good luck!
      David’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $30.00
      Total/yr (52 wks paid) $62,400
      Est. taxes 30% ($18,720)
      After tax take-home – $43,680
      Per month take-home $3,640
      Max. rent -$1,500
      Utilities, incl. cable/internet (10% of rent) -$150
      Car payment est. -$300
      Car insurance est. -$150
      Gas est. -$50
      or Commuting $0
      Groceries/food est. -$300
      Laundry/dry cleaning est. -$40
      Cell phone est. -$80
      Credit Cards $0
      Student Loan $0
      Savings (10% of take-home) -$364
      Cash left for all other expenses/Month $706
      Clothing, entertainment, vacations, etc.

      Reply
  270. Avatar Shonda

    Hi, I make15.43 an hour and I work full time. My car payment is $275 a month and my insurance is $100. I plan to have a roommate and wanted to know how much I can afford to pay for rent.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Shonda,
      Based on the chart in this post, your max. rent at $15/40 hours a week is $750. Your rough budget below, shows that you could manage at that level but it is tight – we like to see at least $200 a week for other living expenses and savings. Of course, you need to look at your actual paychecks to see how much you take home after taxes and what other fixed monthly bills you have. (We estimated your tax deductions at 20%.) Good luck!
      Shonda’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $15.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $30,000
      Est. taxes 20% ($6,000)
      After tax take-home – $24,000

      Per month take-home $2,000
      Max. rent -$750
      Utilities (20% of rent) -$150
      Car Payment -$275
      Car insurance -$100
      Cash after fixed exp. $725
      Per week $181

      Reply
  271. Avatar Capucine Duncan

    I really need help!

    I live in Chicago,IL. My goal is for me, bf, and son to have our own apartment, preferably two bed 1 bath. I just started working at a place where I make 16/hr , 40 hours a week. My bf makes 11.50/hr and will probably drop to part time to watch our child. As far as expenses will pay 50 per pay period on health insurance, 28 a week on bus fare and my bf pays 100 on our mobile bill and pays his student loans every month. Based off that could you tell me how much will we be able to afford in rent?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Capucine,
      Below is your very rough budget based on the information you gave. (The wild card that we don’t know is the amount of student loan payments your BF has, if that’s much more than $100 a month, go with the safer rent.) It looks like the rent in the $1,000 range would be doable for you based on your and BF’s incomes. However, you would be safer basing your rent target on your income alone, because your BF plans to take of your son. In that case you’d be looking something in the $800-$850 range. Good luck and let us know what you end up doing.
      Capucine’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $16.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $32,000
      Est. taxes 15% ($4,800)
      After tax take-home – Capucine $27,200
      Hours – BF 20
      Pay/hr $11.50
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $11,500
      Est. taxes 10% ($1,150)
      After tax take-home – BF $10,350

      Per month after tax take-home $3,129
      Max. rent (before tax pay/40) -$1,088
      Utilities (20% of rent) -$218
      Health insurance $50/week? -$200
      Bus fare $28/week -$112
      Phone -$100
      Student Loan ???
      Cash after fixed exp. $1,412
      Per week $353

      Reply
  272. Avatar morgan badd

    Hi , guys I currently live in Michigan bring home 12.85 get paid every 2 weeks im contigent but I chose to work everyday sometimes 5 12hr shifts an 2 8hrs whats the max rent I can afford im think 600 – 650?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Morgan,
      If you work at least 40 hours a week, you should be able to afford $600-650 rent, unless you have unusually heavy other fixed expenses (car, credit cards, loans, etc.). We like to see at least $200 a week left for all your other living expenses and savings, after deducting from your take-home pay rent, utilities and all fixed expenses. Do the math with your actual expenses and see what it shows. Good luck!

      Reply
      • Avatar Ivana

        Hi
        I live in New York and make $12.62 going on $13 possibly this summer. I may experience a large increase in salary since I applied for a high position yet I still have no idea where I should start saving for rent deposit and moving fees. Any ideas?

        Reply
        • MFA Editors MFA Editors

          Hi Ivana,
          Our chart in the post shows that at $13/40 hours your max. rent target is $650. If you live upstate New York, you can certainly get a small apartment at that, but not in New York City. In NYC, you’ll be looking at a roommate share, most likely with several roommates. In any case, you should target to save at least $2,000 before you move. Once you get that higher paying job, take another look at the numbers, but most likely you’ll be still looking at getting a roommate share. Good luck!

  273. Avatar Zoe

    Hello,

    I just got a new job and I will be getting paid $20.90 per hour and I will be working 40 hours a week. I currently have a cellphone bill which is 100, and credit card bill which is 80, and 114 for a monthly metro card. Will I be able to rent an apartment in Brooklyn with the income that I will soon make?Thanks

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Zoe,
      According to the chart on the post, you max. rent is just over $1,000 a month. You will not be able to get your own place in Brooklyn, but everyone starts out with a roommate share, anyway. NYC has high taxes, so we estimated your tax bite at 25% of income. See a rough budget below. If you go down to $200 a week for your other living expenses, you could go up another $250 or so in rent to about $1,250. Best way to afford living in a high cost city like NYC and have a great first apartment experience is make friends with people in your income bracket, take advantage of all the free and cheap events and entertainment options, and learn to cook. Eating out is budget killer. Good luck!
      Zoe’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $20.90
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $41,800
      Est. taxes 25% ($10,450)
      After tax take-home – $31,350
      Per month take-home $2,613
      Max. rent -$1,000
      Utilities (10% of rent -high rent market) -$100
      Metro Card -$114
      Phone -$100
      Credit card -$80
      Cash after fixed exp. $1,219
      Per week (30 day month) $284

      Reply
  274. Avatar Nikki

    Hi,

    I’m transitioning into a new career of which I’ll be making $16.06 per hour and will be paid biweekly. I have a car payment of about $232 and the insurance is $160. I’ve been considering an apartment that states rent would be about $625 per month with a one time deposit of $750. Would I be able to afford this? What could I expect to spend on clothes, food, renting insurance, etc? Would be first time on my own.

    Reply
  275. Avatar Lisa

    Hello, I’m trying to see if I can afford to move out and how long it’ll take until I can. I make $13.50/hour full time and get paid weekly. My phone bill is about $90/month, food $150/month, student loans $282/month (at the moment, might go up to around $400 in a yr or two), gas for my car $60/month. These are all rough estimates, could be off by a few bucks. No car note or insurance.

    Reply
  276. Avatar Lori

    Hello! Moving to Nashville and will be making $17hr. I won’t have a car payment, but will pay for gas. Maybe a phone bill $100 a month. How much can I afford for a one bd w/enough to spare for utilities? Thanks! :)

    Reply
    • Avatar Danielle Ruggiero

      how many hours a week will you be working? If 40, you can afford about 800-850. 850 being your max :)

      Reply
  277. Avatar Mariah Davis

    Hi, I recently received a raise and make 18.10 an hr. I have a car payment of $450, insurance $190. What is the highest rent I can afford? Am I even able to move out and still live comfortably?

    Reply
    • Avatar Keya

      Sheesh that car note & insurance is a big load. If you work 40hrs per week, that’s about $2,896/month before taxes. If you pay your car note & insurance plus maybe a $700 rent that would leave you with about $1550 per month left over for personal use. If you move into an apt you may not have to worry about utilities. Factor in phone bill and maybe $100-150 per month on food & you’re in good shape. I also claim more dependents on W4 so federal isn’t taken out, but that’s personal preference depending on whether you’d like more money in checks or prefer a big refund. If you have any kids you won’t owe back taxes by claiming excessive dependents either. Just some tips on getting more out your pay check. Good luck!

      Reply
  278. Avatar Larry

    Hello I make $13 an hour 40 hrs a week
    I don’t have to any car bills or cellphone bills
    My girlfriend would be living with me and would be paying all our groceries
    Can I get an apartment ?

    Reply
  279. Avatar Jenny

    Hi guys, I have a question regarding the estimator showed above. I go to college and I earn $10.75 per week. My expenses are limited to grocery shopping (around $60 monthly) and my $15 cellphone bill. Other expenses are paid around every (3-4 months). My question is this, if I live in a shared house with 3/4 other people and we share expenses, would it be a wise idea to pay a $450 rent + utilities?

    Reply
    • Avatar Kitsune Miko

      I’m going to go out on a limb and assume you meant $10.75/hour, because earning $10.75 per week wouldn’t even cover your grocery bill. However, it’s hard to give you an answer because we don’t know how many hours per week you get. Refer to the chart above (use the $10/hour listing) and if the hours you get are not exact, round to the nearest number on the chart (lower is better).

      From the sounds of it though, you might make enough to cover it, because part time work is usually around 20-25 hours per week. Based on the chart, that would mean a maximum of $313 for rent. You might be able to go a little bit higher, but it would be a better idea to save that for emergency expenses instead.

      The chart does not take into account utility expenses, but the rule of thumb is 20% of your rent amount or $100, whichever’s higher (10% in high rent areas like NYC). 20% of 313 is 62.60, so the $100 amount would be the working number for budgeting. Added to the rent amount, that’s $413 per month for rent and utility costs.

      Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Jenny,
      Hope you saw Kitsune Miko’s earlier advice. Here’s our take on your situation.
      Assuming you make $10.75 an hour and work 20 hours week, you cannot afford $450 a month rent. See below Budget A. However, at 30 hours or more you could make it. Your cell phone looks low, so you are probably on your parents’ plan, which is a great savings. You don’t have any car/commuting to work expenses, so we assume you walk or bike. Your grocery/food/laundry expenses will be much higher when you live on your own, so estimate $50-$75 a week, if you cook at home. You would have to live frugally but you should be able to manage. Good luck!
      Jenny’s Budget A:
      Hours 20
      Pay/hr $10.75
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $10,750
      Est. taxes 15% ($1,613)
      After tax take-home – $9,138
      Per month take-home $761
      Max. rent -$450
      Utilities Est. -$50
      Phone -$15
      Groceries/laundry -$200
      Cash after fixed exp. $46
      Per week (30 day month) $11
      Jenny’s Budget B:
      Hours 30
      Pay/hr $10.75
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $16,125
      Est. taxes 15% ($2,419)
      After tax take-home – $13,706
      Per month take-home $1,142
      Max. rent -$450
      Utilities Est. -$50
      Phone -$15
      Groceries/laundry -$300
      Cash after fixed exp. $327
      Per week (30 day month) $76

      Reply
  280. Avatar Joy

    Hi,
    I will be making $25/hr for an internship in Chicago. I will be taking the train to/from work as I do not have a car. I will be working 40 hours a week, have no phone bill, and have a cat to provide for. What are my options in terms of monthly rent?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Joy,
      Yours is one of the rare cases where you could reasonable afford the max. rent on our chart, or $1,250, and still be able to pay all your other living expenses, including entertainment, plus put a fair amount into savings. However, you maybe able to find a place that you love for less in Chicago, giving you even more flexibility. Good luck!

      Reply
  281. Avatar Ana

    Hello guys! Would love some help! I make around $455 biweekly, around 900 monthly, would I be able to afford a rent of $525?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Ana,
      The answer is no. After rent and utilities you’ll have less than $300 a month for commuting to work, food, clothing and all other living expenses. If you can stay where you are, save money and wait to move until your income improves. If you must move, look for a max. $300 roommate share. Good luck!

      Reply
  282. Avatar Danielle Ruggiero

    Hi, could you help me out?
    I make 15/hr working full time. I want to move out with my girlfriend on one income. I’m looking to move near Framingham, MA if that helps. I currently don’t have any car payments, although I do have a car. I pay about 100$ in bills like phone and credit card a month. Could I afford 800 safely if it includes things? What about 700, that includes nothing? It would be just us two. I’m really worried about not having enough money to afford everything to move out :(

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Danielle,
      As you saw on the chart in the post, at 40 hours/week and $15/hour, your max. formula rent is $750. Let’s see how that looks on a budget worksheet below.
      As long as you don’t have car payment, you should be ok in the $700 range, but is does not look much margin for error. If your car goes, it will be tough, but maybe your GF will be able to pitch in. Good luck!
      Danielle’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $15.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $30,000
      Est. taxes 20% ($6,000)
      After tax take-home – $24,000

      Per month take-home $2,000
      Max. rent -$750
      Utilities (20% of rent) -$150
      Phone & credit cards -$100
      Cash after fixed exp. $1,000
      Per week $250

      Reply
      • Avatar Danielle Ruggiero

        awesome, thanks so much :) I love this website so much, I’ve read every single article on it within the last three years. Keep it up, I love it and you guys :)

        Reply
  283. Avatar Shena Montoya

    Hi I make 14. 00 and I work 20 hours a week will I be able to find a apt to rent

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Shena,
      You probably take home about $1,000 a month. Can you find a place for around $350 a month? That’s most you could reasonably afford. Good luck!

      Reply
  284. Avatar Nadia

    I’m full time making 12.74 hourly and have a 4 year old daughter. I’m trying to move along with my roommate who makes way more than me, 20 something an hour. What price range should we look for and if I decide to look for just me and my daughter, what should I like for?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Nadia,
      Your max rent from our chart https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/ at $12/hr. and 40 hours/week is $600. In your case that would be really pushing it because you also have a child and they cost a lot of money. If you have to pay for daycare, you probably cannot afford your own place. Your roommate at $20/hr and 40 hours/week could go as high as $1,000 in rent. Try to get something in that $1,000, so max. you would pay is $500. If you roomie wants to go higher, they should pick up the extra rent. Good luck!

      Reply
  285. Avatar Kelsey

    I work full time and i get paid $15/hour, would i be able to afford a one bedroom apartment that is $800, would i need to get a roommate or could i do it alone?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Kelsey,
      $800 is pushing it, but if you work a full 40 hours a week and have no other fixed costs and know how to live frugally, you should be able to do it. Why don’t you see if for a little more you can get a 2BR and share the cost with a roommate. You’d be less stressed and able to save some money. Good luck!

      Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Ben,
      Of course it is, if your pay per hour is high enough. Even if you make minimum wage, you should be able to get a roommate share somewhere, although it may not be an area or situation that is ideal for a long term. Good luck!

      Reply
  286. Avatar Angelica

    I make 10.50 an hour and i get payed every two weeks and i do about 49 Hours per week .i found a apartment for 800 a month do yoi think i could afford it

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Angelica,
      $800 is too high by about $200. If you eyeball the chart at $11/45 hour/wk, the max. rent is $619. Don’t overextend on rent, consider a roommate share to start with that will allow you to save money and move to your dream place in a year or two. Good luck!

      Reply
  287. Avatar Clara

    Hi. I am currently making $20/hr and I am offered an apartment with utilities included for $700/month in los angeles. I do have loans and car insurance but my car is paid. Im going to be living on my own so i want to make sure that I am making the right move. Please help me by informing me if I should take this opportunity?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Clara,
      As you can see on the post https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/ at 35 hours a week, your max. rent is $875, so $700 that includes utilities is well within your means. You need to run the numbers anyway just to make sure, because you say you have loans and we have no information on the size of those payments. Add up your take-home pay for the last month, deduct the rent and all your other monthly bills and see whats left. We like to see at least $200 a week for your other living costs. Good luck!

      Reply
  288. Avatar Jan

    Hi i get paid $10 per hour, and I work 40 hours a week. I am looking at a $560 apartment. I don’t pay any bills right now. Could you please go in depth as to how much I could afford on an apartment.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Jan,
      You have no bill to pay? Will someone continue paying your bills after you move? Commuting to work, phone, credit cards, etc.? What will happen when they stop paying your bills? How much do you have in savings? Should be a lot, since you work and have no expenses! Somehow all this sounds unrealistic to us. Before you jump to rent, why don’t you at least write down where your cash went last couple of months. We suspect you’ll find a bunch of expenses you’ll have to pay, in addition to rent after you move. That “budget” tell you if you can afford the apartment. Good luck!

      Jan’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $10.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $20,000
      Est. taxes 15% ($3,000)
      After tax take-home – $17,000

      Per month take-home $1,417
      Max. rent -$560
      Utilities (20% of rent) -$112
      Car Payment $0
      Car insurance $0
      Phone $0
      Student Loan $0
      Cash after fixed exp. $745
      Per week (30-day month) $174

      Reply
  289. Avatar Stefania

    Hello, I make 9.00 an hour, i work everyday 5am-12pm except Wednesday.So I get a little over 40 hours a week guaranteed plus tips which is only like $15 a day ( I’m a cashier) and was wondering if I could afford a efficiency apartment for 430 a month & only pay electricity, which will probably only be like 60-70 a month at the most. Thank you.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Stephania,
      Our chart says that you should be able afford $450 in rent, even without your tip income that you should save for an emergency fund. However, you must have some expenses. How do you get to work? Do you have a phone? Any credit card bills? Those expenses have to be paid before you even get to paying for food and clothing. Another way to look at the affordability is to look at how much you are saving each month right now or spending in totally discretionary items. Do those things add up to $500 a month and could cover your rent? if yes, you could move. Good luck!

      Stephania’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $9.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $18,000
      Est. taxes 15% ($2,700)
      After tax take-home – $15,300

      Per month take-home $1,275
      Max. rent -$430
      Utilities (20% of rent) -$70
      Car Payment ?
      Car insurance ?
      Phone ?
      Credit cards ?
      Cash after fixed exp. $775
      Per week (30-day month) $181

      Reply
  290. Avatar Yamilka Gonzalez

    Hello, I make 9.00 an hour, So I get a little over 40 hours a week guaranteed plus tips which is only like $15 a day ( I’m a cashier) and was wondering if I could afford a efficiency apartment for 430 a month & only pay electricity, which will probably only be like 60-70 a month at the most. Thank you.

    Reply
  291. Avatar Vanne

    I have two jobs my day job pays 14 hr I work 40 hours a week and the other one is full time as well I got paid 13 hr what price would I be able to afford for rent.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Vanne,
      Do you really work 80 hours a week and want to commit to working those hours continuously. We would recommend that you get an apartment that you can afford with just one full time job, or $700 that you could afford on your $14/40 hours/wk job. If that rent range is not doable in your market, you could go a little higher, but that will increase the stress in your life, knowing that you must work both jobs, no matter what. Good luck!

      Reply
  292. Avatar saira

    Hello, just need help on estimating a good rate for rent. I make $15 an hour and work 37.5 hours a week getting paid weekly. I pay for my car note ($290.83), car insurance ($219.17), phone bill (about $96), gas ($25 weekly), as of right now I’m paying medical bills monthly but hopefully soon I can pay those off and save more money. If I ever move out I can imagine I’d have to include gas, water, sewer, electricity, groceries, cable and internet, etc etc. Would I able to able to move out and live comfortably?

    Reply
  293. Avatar Kina

    I make $16/hr biweekly and work 40 hours a week. My monthly bills include my cell phone bill $113, insurance $30 (I split that with my family), gas for car $35, and my groceries and toiletries usually come up to $150. It’s just me and I want to know if I would be able to afford moving out on my own with my income?

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Kina,
      Based on our rent chart https://www.myfirstapartment.com/2016/07/how-much-rent-can-i-afford-on-my-hourly-pay/, your max is $800. Using that number in your budget and adding your other expenses, we estimate that you’d still have $200+ a week for all your other expenses. So, if you can get a place for $800 or less, you should be able to manage it. Good luck!
      Kina’s Budget:
      Hours 40
      Pay/hr $16.00
      Total/yr (50 wks paid) $32,000
      Est. taxes 20% ($6,400)
      After tax take-home – $25,600

      Per month take-home $2,133
      Max. rent -$800
      Utilities (20% of rent) -$160
      Gas -$35
      Car insurance -$30
      Phone -$113
      Groceries/toiletries -$150
      Cash after fixed exp. $845
      Per week $211

      Reply
  294. Avatar Nick toups

    I make 13 am hour 40 plus hrs a week. And once a month I usually get a 175 dollar bonus it could change alittle but with the bonus. But I pay a total of 85 dollars for my car and phone bills. And my girl friends makes 9 dollars an hr 35 hrs a week. Could you help us out alittle?

    Reply
  295. Avatar Shanika

    Hi im 24 and i get paid 9.00 hourly 27hours a week im a student and im trying to rent an apartment for 590 month will i be able to afford this or get approved with is pay?

    Reply
  296. Avatar Kimberly

    Hi, I’m about to rent an studio for 650 a month with everything included and is less than 5 minutes walking to my job. I get paid biweekly, 8.38 hourly and every monday of the month we get tips which i use to pay my phone, netflix, health insurance, internet and some food. I could approximately make 35-40 a week and sometimes I do 10-15 hours overtime. I would like to know if Im gonna make a good decision by renting this apartment based on my income and expenses.

    Reply
    • Avatar Maggie

      Kimberly, you want to budget for the low weeks. If you make 8.35/[email protected]/week x 4 weeks/month -1/3 (taxes) take home is $850 this would leave you $200 for food/renters insturance/savings/shopping/misc. Now some months you will have extra but the $200 do you think that’s enough? The more you can save now the better off you will be in the long run

      Reply
  297. Avatar Craig

    Hello, I’m moving to Dallas, TX. I plan to work a full-time job that pays $13 per hour, 40 hours per week as a lockbox/document processor for Citigroup. As well as work a part time job with Instacart. I’m not sure what the pay for Instacart is but I’d say $12 per hour and 15 hours per week. I’ve been calculating ALL day and I don’t think I can afford a studio apartment, not a safe one anyway :). I have bad work history of getting fired (once) and quitting (twice). I’ve been out of work for 4 months, am a college student (not good either b/c i transferred multiple times making more debt) graduate end of this year with a certificate in illustration. I did an example, not sure exact percentages: took 20% taxes, 12% health/medical insurance (job offered insurance) & 10% for donation organization from my weekly check for the full time job. For the part time job I didn’t take out the 12% b/c most part-time jobs don’t offer it.

    full-time $15,683.20/year + part-time $6,552/year = $22,235.20/year

    An apartment in Dallas currently has a studio apartment for $695 per month, cable ready (not sure what that means), I don’t see any utilities included, nor internet.

    rent: $695+ internet, electricity, water, & gas = $850/month
    car (insurance, note & gas): $588/month
    cell phone: $32.54/month (tracfone, budget talking/texting :)
    Food: $250/month
    Miscellaneous (clothes, hair, car repairs…): $150/month
    Student loans (still in college not sure): $298/month
    TOTAL: $2,168.54/month

    $22,235.20/year is $1,852.93/month, I can’t afford this. :( unless I calculated wrong. I hope theres Illustration jobs that pay $20/hour there when I graduate. I don’t see any now, at least not any that don’t include graphic design.

    Reply
    • MFA Editors MFA Editors

      Hi Craig,
      According to our hourly pay rent formula, you should be able to afford $650 in rent on just your “day job”, so $695 is not that much of a reach. Where your budget gets blown up is that $588 a month in car expenses. We suspect that you have destroyed your credit rating during all your job and school changes and are paying top dollar for car loan interest and car insurance.
      We did a rough budget for you below using 20% for taxes, etc. deductions. You are probably a little too high with your estimates. Anyway, even with that it’s still too tight for that studio.
      Why don’t you take this year to get back on track. Get a roommate share. Stay in your job. Get your