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Hidden Costs of Renting near USC in 2024: Why Your Monthly Bill Is Much More Than Just Base Rent

USCLos AngelesUCLAStudent HousingKtown
Asa2024-09-25
Hidden Costs of Renting near USC in 2024: Why Your Monthly Bill Is Much More Than Just Base Rent
"When you're searching for a place to rent near USC, the price of rent is often something important. However, the base rent is just the beginning. Many renters are surprised to find that once they've signed the lease, a host of additional fees and expenses quickly pile on. From utilities and parking to pet fees and renters insurance, these hidden costs can easily inflate your monthly payment by $500 or more, turning what seemed like an affordable option into a financial burden. Let’s break down the hidden rental fees you need to watch out for in LA."

🏠 House

USC Co-living student housing

Student Housing near USC typically follows a co-living model (Curious about what this looks like? Check Moo Housing), making them significantly cheaper than apartments. For example, near USC, a private room with a pricate bathroom usually has a base rent of around $1000-$1600.

But…additional fees include:

  1. Application fee: Around $40
  2. Deposit: 1month base rent
  3. Utility + weekly cleaning: $80-150/month (smaller units tend to have higher costs)
  4. Parking fee: $50-100/month
  5. Pet fee: Approximately $500 deposit, with potential monthly fees (Emotional Support Animals exempt)
  6. Renter insurance: Around $10/month, depending on the insurance provider
  7. Move-out cleaning fee: Based on the condition of the unit
  8. Late fee (or NSF for failed payments): $50/$35 per occurrence

‼️ Possible extra monthly expenses: $100 - $300

🏢 Apartment

DTLA luxury apartment Perla

Apartments are often smaller units like studios, 1-bedroom (1b), or 2-bedroom (2b) apartments, and they usually come with shared amenities like gyms, pools, and study/work areas. Base rent tends to be higher, with 1b apartments in Downtown LA typically ranging from $2300 to $3500.

But…additional fees include:

  1. Application fee: $40-50/person
  2. Holding deposit: $200-500/unit, which converts to a housing deposit upon approval
  3. Deposit: Studio and 1b: $800-1000; 2b: around $2000
  4. Utilities: Some are based on actual usage, while others are split across the building, with the latter often being higher. Typically $100-200/person
  5. Trash fee: Some apartments charge around $30/month
  6. Parking fee: $125-250/month
  7. Pet fee: $500 deposit and $50/month in additional fees
  8. Renter insurance: $10-20/month
  9. Porter service fee: Some apartments charge $20/month

‼️ Possible extra monthly expenses: $180 - $550

When setting your monthly rental budget in Los Angeles, it's crucial to account for these additional hidden fees that can significantly increase your overall cost. From utilities and parking to pet and amenity fees, the total can easily surpass your initial expectations. To avoid unexpected financial strain, make sure you're fully aware of all the potential extra costs before signing a lease.

At Moo Housing, we offer newly renovated, student-focused housing at affordable rates, just minutes from USC. With transparent, all-inclusive monthly bills, you'll know exactly what you're paying each month, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to focus on your studies.

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Leasing: (213)-325-5858Management: (213)-335-1336Email: leasing@moohousing.comAddress: 3250 Wilshire Blvd #1502, Los Angeles, CA 90010