What’s the Average Rent for a Furnished Apartment?

Furnished apartments offer convenience and flexibility, making them an attractive option for many renters. However, the cost of these apartments can vary significantly depending on location, amenities, and local demand. Let’s explore the average rent for furnished apartments across different U.S. cities and states.

Nationwide Averages

In general, furnished apartments cost around 10-50% more than their unfurnished counterparts. For example:

• A furnished one-bedroom apartment in Austin, Texas, might average $1,900 per month compared to $1,500 for an unfurnished unit.
• In Boise, Idaho, a similar furnished unit could cost approximately $1,400, with unfurnished options closer to $1,100.

High-Cost Cities

In cities with high living costs, furnished apartments come at a premium:

• New York City, New York: Expect to pay $3,800 to $5,000 for a furnished one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan.
• San Francisco, California: Furnished one-bedrooms typically range from $3,500 to $4,500 per month, especially in neighborhoods like SoMa or Mission Bay.
• Seattle, Washington: A furnished studio might cost $2,100, with one-bedrooms averaging $2,800.

Affordable Options

In smaller cities or areas with a lower cost of living, furnished apartments are more affordable:

• Tulsa, Oklahoma: A furnished one-bedroom apartment averages around $1,100.
• Lexington, Kentucky: Renters can find furnished units for as little as $1,000 to $1,200 per month.
• Bismarck, North Dakota: Furnished one-bedrooms average $1,150.

Tourist Hubs and Seasonal Variations

Cities with a strong tourism presence or seasonal demand often have higher furnished rental rates:

• Orlando, Florida: Furnished rentals near attractions like Disney World might average $2,500 during peak tourist season.
• Aspen, Colorado: Seasonal furnished apartments can range from $4,000 to $7,000 per month during the ski season.
• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Coastal furnished units range from $1,800 to $2,400 during summer months.

Suburban and Rural Areas

In suburban and rural areas, furnished apartments are less common but still available at competitive rates:

• Fort Wayne, Indiana: Furnished one-bedrooms average $1,000 per month.
• Waco, Texas: Expect to pay around $1,200 for a fully furnished unit.
• Bangor, Maine: Monthly rents hover around $1,100 for furnished apartments.

Factors Influencing Costs

1. Location: Urban centers and areas with high demand for short-term rentals often have higher prices.
2. Amenities: Fully equipped kitchens, in-unit laundry, and premium furnishings can add to the cost.
3. Lease Terms: Shorter lease terms often result in higher monthly rates.

Tips for Finding Affordable Furnished Apartments

• Compare Listings: Websites like Apartments.com and Furnished Finder can help you explore a range of options.
• Negotiate: Landlords in cities like Cleveland, Ohio, or Tucson, Arizona, may offer discounts for longer lease commitments.
• Consider Shared Housing: Renting a furnished room in a shared apartment can reduce costs.

Final Thoughts

Furnished apartments provide convenience but often come with a higher price tag. By researching costs in your desired location—whether it’s Charleston, West Virginia, or Flagstaff, Arizona—you can find options that fit your budget and lifestyle. Always review lease terms carefully and consider all associated expenses before committing to a rental.