For many renters, the biggest barrier to securing housing isn't monthly rent — it's the move-in cost. First month's rent, last month's rent, security deposits, application fees, and utility setup can easily total thousands of dollars before you ever receive keys.
That's why more people are choosing shared housing as a flexible and affordable alternative to traditional apartments.
This article explains why shared housing typically has lower move-in costs, how it works, and who benefits most from this option — especially when working with a placement service like Unity Living.
The True Cost of Moving Into an Apartment
When renting a traditional apartment, renters often pay:
Even for a modest apartment, move-in costs can range from $3,000 – $6,000 or more — before rent is ever paid again.
For people relocating, between leases, or rebuilding financially, this upfront cost can be unrealistic.
How Shared Housing Reduces Move-In Costs
Shared housing operates differently. Instead of leasing an entire apartment, you rent a private bedroom within a furnished home. This structure reduces costs in several key ways:
Lower Deposits
Shared housing often requires smaller deposits than apartments — or, in some cases, no traditional deposit at all.
Furnished Spaces
Most shared homes come furnished, eliminating the need to purchase beds, sofas, tables, and kitchen essentials. This alone can save hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Utilities Are Often Included
Electricity, water, internet, and sometimes cleaning services are typically bundled into one monthly cost — removing utility deposits and setup fees.
No Long-Term Lease Pressure
Shared housing commonly offers month-to-month or short-term options, reducing the financial commitment required upfront.
At a Glance: Apartment vs. Shared Housing
| Cost Category | Traditional Apartment | Shared Housing |
|---|---|---|
| Security Deposit | $1,000 – $2,500+ | Low or none |
| First Month's Rent | $1,200 – $2,000+ | $800 – $1,100 |
| Last Month's Rent | Often required | Typically not required |
| Utility Deposits | $200 – $500+ | Usually included |
| Furniture | $1,000 – $3,000+ | Furnished |
| Lease Term | 12 months typical | Flexible / month-to-month |
| Estimated Total Move-In | $3,000 – $6,000+ | $1,500 – $2,000 |
Placement Services vs. Apartment Leasing
Apartment leasing offices are paid by large property management companies. Shared housing placements, however, require individualized coordination.
With a placement service like Unity Living, renters benefit from:
- Faster access to available rooms
- Guidance through the process
- Reduced trial-and-error searching
- Clear expectations before move-in
Instead of paying thousands upfront to an apartment complex, renters redirect their resources toward a faster, simpler move-in.
Why Lower Move-In Costs Matter
Lower move-in costs mean:
For many renters, shared housing isn't just cheaper — it's more realistic.
Who Shared Housing Is Best For
Shared housing with lower move-in costs is ideal for:
- Working professionals
- Individuals relocating to a new area
- People between leases
- Renters rebuilding credit or savings
- Anyone needing housing quickly without large upfront expenses
If timing, affordability, and flexibility are priorities, shared housing offers a practical alternative to apartment living.
Final Thoughts
Traditional apartments work well for some — but they're not the only option.
Shared housing provides a way to secure safe, private living space without the heavy financial burden that often comes with apartment move-ins. With furnished homes, lower deposits, and flexible terms, it's an option worth considering.
If you're exploring shared housing and want guidance through the process, UnityLiving.co can help you get started.