Your first paycheck brings home roughly $3,200/month. The rent you pick here decides what that paycheck can still cover. Pick the rent you'd realistically sign for.
Monthly rent
Step 2 — Move-in Cost
How much up front?
Most leases ask for a security deposit before you get the keys. Some landlords need 2 months rent. Drives the cash you need on day one.
Security deposit
Step 3 — Lease Length
How long are you locked in?
A longer lease usually means a slightly cheaper monthly rate — but if you lose your job in month 4, breaking it costs money. Shorter leases keep your options open.
Lease length
Step 4 — Utilities
Who pays for electricity, water, internet?
Rent is only the start. Utilities can add $80–$180/month on top. A "cheap" apartment that sticks you with all the utilities can be more expensive than a "pricier" one with utilities included.
Who pays utilities?
Step 5 — Fine Print
What happens if you have to leave early?
The early-termination clause tells you what it costs to break the lease. Most leases have one — landlords want protection if you vanish. Read this before you sign.
Early-termination clause
Step 6 — Your Lease Decision
Here's the lease you just signed
Connect the numbers back to your first paycheck. Rent, utilities, and a possible exit penalty — all from a single signature today.
Your Lease
— month lease
Monthly rent
$0
Utilities (est.)
$0
Move-in cost (deposit + first month)
$0
Early-termination penalty
$0
Your Lease Score
0 / 15
Grade
F
Out of A–F, based on your five lease choices.
Housing as % of take-home
0%
Target: stay under 30% of take-home pay.
Lease smart or lease trap — your choice.
Make five lease decisions to see your headline and trade-offs here.