Finance category
Mortgage, loan, investing, tax, and money calculators.
Move-In Cost Calculator
Moving into a new rental often requires 3-5x monthly rent upfront — first month, last month (in some states), security deposit, broker fee (NYC etc.), movers, utility deposits, and apartment essentials. This calculator tallies the full move-in check.
Cleaning, shower curtain, etc.
Total move-in cash
$5,700
Months of rent equivalent
2.59
First month
$2,200
Last month
$0
Security deposit
$2,200
Broker fee
$0
How the math works
Typical move-in: $2,200 first + $2,200 security + $650 movers + $150 utility + $500 essentials = $5,700 (~2.6 months rent). Add last month (MA) or 15% broker (NYC) and you're at $8K-$14K.
Save 3-4 months rent before moving to avoid a cash crunch. Some landlords offer 'waive last month' or 'reduced deposit' deals; always ask — especially in slower rental markets.
How to Use
- Enter monthly rent and the security deposit (usually 1x rent, sometimes 2x).
- Include last month if required in your market (common in MA, NYC).
- Add broker fee, movers, utility deposits, and one-time essentials budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's 'last month's rent'?
Upfront payment held against the final month. Common in Massachusetts, parts of NY. Separate from security deposit. MA caps what landlords can collect upfront to: first + last + security deposit + lock fee — total can't exceed ~3-4x rent plus lock cost.
Broker fee — who pays?
Varies by market. NYC: historically tenant-paid 12-15% of annual rent, now heavily contested. Boston: tenant-paid typically one month. Many cities: landlord-paid or no broker. Confirm before touring.
Movers — DIY or pro?
Studio / 1BR local move: $300-$800 pro or $150-$350 DIY (van rental + friend labor). 2-3 BR: $1,500-$3,500 pro. Long-distance: $2,500-$10,000. Get 3 quotes; beware lowball bait-and-switch.
Utility setup deposits?
$50-$300 per utility for new customers without credit history. Waivable with letter of guarantee or prior utility reference. Some states prohibit deposits; check local PUC rules.
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