Moving Out Cost Estimator
Moving Out Cost Calculator — First Apartment Budget
What this calculator does
This calculator adds up the one-time and first-month costs of moving into a new rental. It helps you save the right amount before you move.
The math, with a worked example
Total = rent + deposit + first month rent + last month rent + utility setup fees. Deposit = rent × deposit multiplier. A $1,400 apartment with a $2,100 deposit (1.5× rent), first and last month rent, and $200 utility fees costs $6,500 upfront.
Why this matters
The first apartment costs 3-4 rents before you sleep in it: deposit, first month, often last month, plus utility setup. On a $1,400 unit that's over $5,000 of move-in cash — the number that decides whether the listing is actually available to you.
Methodology and transparency
Total = deposit (rent × your multiplier) + first month + last month + utility setup. Local practice sets the multiplier — some markets cap deposits by law, others stack broker fees the model doesn't include. Add moving costs and any overlap month with your old lease for the true cash-out. Everything runs in your browser; no data is sent or stored.
Last reviewed: 2026-08-08
Common questions
Do all landlords charge first and last month?
No. Some require only first month and deposit. Check the lease before budgeting.
What other costs should I plan for?
Moving truck, packing supplies, furniture, cleaning, and utility activation or transfer fees.
How much should I have saved before moving?
At least the total from this calculator plus 2–3 months of rent as an emergency cushion.