In this article
In this piece for the great singles out there, we will break down the average living expenses for one person that you might face when moving cross-country and provide ideas to help you understand how to budget for this transition. Maybe your Prince Charming is waiting for you there.
Single and Ready To Mingle Across the Country
1. Housing Costs: The Biggest Expense
One of the most significant expenses when moving cross country or really moving anywhere alone is housing. Rent will vary depending on the city, state, and neighborhood you choose to live in.
As a single person, you may be able to get by with a smaller studio spot, but it’s still essential to understand how much of your income will go toward rent and utilities and ensure that it is less than 40% to be able to save for a rainy day.
You can always choose to add a roommate to the mix if you see you are out of budget but don’t want to adjust other factors to lower the prices.
Average Rents:
- East Coast: Cities like New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C. have high living costs, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averaging between $2,500 to $3,500 per month. The location inside the city will drastically affect pricing. For example a studio with a view to the park in NYC will cost double the same size studio in DC. Smaller cities in the Northeast or South like Pittsburgh or Richmond have that same studio renting for between $1,000 and $1,500. Location is everything so consider your commute.
- West Coast: San Francisco and Los Angeles have some of the highest rental rates in the US, with one-bedroom apartments run for $2,800 to $4,000 per month, particularly in the downtown and most desired areas. Moving to smaller cities like Portland, Oregon or Salt Lake City will cost you only $1,200 and $2,000 per month.
- Midwest: The Midwest offers the most affordable housing in the US hands down. Cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and Indianapolis have rental prices for one-bedroom apartments from $1,000 to $1,800 per month. Smaller cities or rural areas in Kansas City of St. Louis have apartments for $800 to $1,200 with nice open spaces.
- South: Austin, Nashville, and Atlanta are experiencing rapid growth thanks to the tax changes and influx of the tech industry, which means rent is increasing. As this is still the Midwest, you can still find a one-bedroom apartment for $1,200 to $2,000 in many areas. Smaller towns in the South could have rents as low as $800 to $1,500. Take into consideration you lifestyle to see if these locations are relevant for you.
Key Questions to Consider
- What are the rent prices in your destination city, and how do they compare to your current living situation?
- How will your single salary cover both rent and food costs? Will you have money left over to save?
- How much are utilities likely to cost in the area you’re moving to? Are there high heating or cooling costs here?
2. Car vs. Public Transit
Now that you are moving, you have to consider how you’ll get around once you’ve arrived at your new home. It might be worth getting rid of your car. The costs vary depending on how you choose to get around.
Car-Dependent Cities
In many parts of the country, especially on the West Coast and Midwest, owning a car is critical. Some places simply aren’t well connected like NYC. The costs of car ownership include:
- Car Payment: The average monthly car payment in the U.S. is around $400–$500, depending on the brand if you are purchasing or leasing. This can exceed this total if you choose nicer models.
- Gas: Gas prices fluctuate, but on average, a single person will spend between $180 and $700 per month on fuel for a half-hour work commute.
- Insurance: Car insurance costs between $100 and $200 per month for a basic policy if your insurance record is clean.
- Maintenance: Depending on the condition of your car, you might spend an additional $50 to $100 per month on maintenance. Think oil changes, broken parts, required tests, and more. A car is pretty expensive, and if you can get around without it and rely on Uber, you will be better off.
Public Transportation
If you are moving to New York City, Chicago, or San Francisco, you will probably find it more convenient to use public transportation with the traffic issues and parking struggles you have in the city. A monthly subway or bus pass costs between $70 to $150 and will save you tons on parking.
What To Think About
- Will you need a car in your new city to get from your home to your job and family?
- How much will gas cost you on average?
- Does the city you’re moving to have a reliable public transportation system, and how much would it cost compared to a private car?
- What is the parking situation near your new home?
3. Food: A Lady’s Got To Eat
Food makes the world go round. Especially tacos. That being said, know that the cost of groceries and eating out will vary significantly across the country so you need to understand the costs of such for your area and likes. Enjoy your new home by trying all the great restaurants in your new area.
Groceries
On average, a single person can expect to spend about $250 to $400 monthly on groceries, depending on the things you choose to eat, where you live, and how much you cook at home versus go out. As a single person alone at home sometimes it makes more financial sense to eat out.
- Cities with a high cost of living have higher grocery prices. A single person living in a city like San Francisco may spend closer to $400, while a person in a small town in the Midwest might only spend $250 for a week of basics including meat.
- Food Deliveries: Many people now rely on meal kit services or UberEats. Depending on the number of meals ordered, these can cost anywhere from $60 to $150 per week. If you don’t know how to cook at all be sure to budget more for this
- Eating out: If you love high end steakhouses you should budget at least $120 a meal but if you are keen with Applebees then $25 a meal is a decent budget depending on the city you live in.
- Key Tip for Singles: Meal prep with a friend to avoid eating the same thing all week. Sharing is caring.
4. Health and Medical Expenses
In addition to the basic living costs, healthcare is an important expense to factor in when moving. Expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $600 per month for basic coverage depending on your premium. Additionally, you will need to account for out-of-pocket costs such as:
Things to Consider
- What kind of health insurance options are available in your new city, and what will the costs be?
- Does your employer offer any benefits?
- What medical costs are you prepared for and how much rainy day savings do you have saved up just in case?
5. More Fun Costs in Life
Aside from rent, utilities, and transportation, there are other day-to-day expenses to consider when moving cross-country as a single ready to mingle. Don’t leave these out of your budget so you won’t come up short.
- Internet and Cable: High-speed internet costs between $50 to $100 per month, and Netflix costs $20 a month.
- Phone plan: A standard cell phone plan can cost anywhere from $40 to $100 per month.
- Entertainment: These expenses can quickly add up, and it’s important to budget for them realistically. If you are hitting up the bars three times a week then factor in the costs of your drinks unless you are on dates and everything is provided.
- Gym: This is the most important expense you have in your life. Maintain it, and you will save on health costs later.
Wrapping Things Up
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when choosing a neighborhood as a single woman?
Safety should be your top priority, so research local crime rates and visit the area at different times of the day. Don’t forget to understand the local public transport, amenities, and whether the area aligns with your lifestyle.
How can I prepare for living alone in a new city?
You should also try to connect with others by joining local groups of things you love, and go out exploring. Establishing a routine once you arrive will help you feel settled and reduce the sense of isolation that comes with moving. Be prepared for the changes and try to map out a few fun spots you plan to head to when you feel alone.
How can I make my new apartment feel like home?
Personalize the space with items you love from your old place like photos, art, and decor. Adding comfy pillows and soft lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Keep the space organized.
What should I do if I feel lonely or isolated after moving?
Know that feeling lonely after a move is normal, and staying connected with family and friends will help with these feelings. Joining local social or sports groups will give you great opportunities to meet new local friends and build a support network. If you need more professional help see a psychologist.
How can I stay safe while living alone in a new city?
Be sure to invest in strong locks and trust your instincts when in unfamiliar situations. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when out at night, and share your location with trusted friends or family when possible. Taking self-defense classes can also help you feel more confident.
