What’s the Cheapest Way to Live Alone? (Updated for 2025)

Rising prices have forced many renters to find a roommate or two. However, finding a place to live by yourself is still feasible — you just need to watch your finances a little more. So, how can you make it work in this economy? Here’s a guide on finding the cheapest way to live alone while still thriving.

Cheapest Way for Single People to Live Alone

First, you need to consider the cheapest options available to single renters. They might not be penthouse suites in Manhattan, but they get the job done. Here are eight options for single people.

1. Rent From a Small Landlord

First, find the small landlords. While it seems like large companies own all the apartments and houses, mom-and-pop options are still available. The National Association of Realtors said small landlords own about 72.5% of single-unit properties in the U.S., so take advantage when you can.

These houses and apartments are typically more affordable, making them terrific places to live alone. While smaller landlords still seek a profit, they manage fewer properties and can get to your maintenance requests faster. Mom-and-pop businesses in the real estate world also have more knowledge of the area, letting you find more affordable spots.

2. Rent a Room in a Single-Family Home

A mortgage can be expensive, so homeowners sometimes find ways to reduce the monthly burden. Take this opportunity by renting a room in one of these single-family homes, even if it’s just a temporary solution. You still get to live alone, as the homeowner will likely put you in an in-law suite or a nearby guest house. 

While you may have to share a kitchen and living space, renting a single room can feel more private than occupying an apartment with roommates. Before starting this deal, you should vet the homeowner and ensure they’re a fit for you. Learn how much space you’ll be sharing and what the ground rules are for the house.

3. Look for a Move-in Special

Different places will have rental prices, amenities and specials that catch your eye. For example, you may get a free month with no rent if you sign a six-month lease instead of a 12-month one. Other places could combine the internet and utilities with your rent so you don’t have to pay outside companies.

Move-in specials can be hard to find, but they help renters save money each month. When the market is in their favor, specials will be more available. Generally, your best bet is to find a rental agreement in the winter. Demand lowers because people are less likely to move in the cold weather. Conversely, the summer is when market activity picks up.

4. See If Someone Can Sublet

It’s not mandatory to sign a lease and rent a living space. If you only need a temporary agreement, you could search for people subletting their apartments. This accommodation benefits the leasing company because there are fewer vacancies. Meanwhile, you reap the advantages of fewer responsibilities in the living space. 

The most significant benefit of subletting an apartment is the furnishings. If there’s already a couch and bed, you don’t have to take much with you! Plus, you won’t have to go to a furniture store to buy overpriced items. If the original tenant needs to move quickly, you might be able to get a lower rate on your monthly rent.

5. Get Cozy in a Studio Apartment

If you live in a large city, renting by yourself can get expensive quickly. The cheapest way to live alone in New York, especially in Manhattan, is to find a studio apartment. These tinier living spaces have everything in one room besides the bathroom. While not ideal, it may be necessary to live below your means. 

Another option for tiny living spaces is microapartments. These accommodations are becoming more popular because of their affordability for people with lower incomes. For example, a microapartment in Seattle costs $500 less than the average studio apartment, making life a little easier. If you don’t anticipate staying at home a lot, it could work for you. 

6. Search for More Affordable Locations

Solo living is fantastic at any age, as it lets you practice independence and find yourself. When you reside in a big city, you can access nearby shops, restaurants, libraries and other hangout spots. However, it can get more expensive because of the higher demand. What’s the more affordable option for living by yourself? 

You may have to look outside the city, so start with the suburbs and exurbs. Suburbs are still within the metro area, making daily commuting easier. If they’re too expensive, take the next step and search for exurbs near your city. These areas go beyond the suburbs but might have transportation options to travel downtown. 

7. Get a Modular Home

When considering the cheapest way to live, you must consider all options. The country’s limited housing supply could mean there isn’t an ideal place for you to live. How should you respond? One strategy is to get a modular home due to its customization. This housing option can start small as you live alone before expanding to a larger space. 

Modular homes are excellent for single people because they’re less expensive per square foot than traditional stick-built houses. Modern builders use advanced practices when constructing these homes in climate-controlled facilities. Therefore, you get your desired customization without forking over a ton of cash. 

8. Consider an RV

Who says you have to stay put in a home? Singles, couples and families worldwide have turned to RV living to make life more affordable and fun. These large vehicles let you explore the country and live like a nomad. While RV life can be challenging, its perks could be too attractive to pass up.

RV living works better if you work remotely. With this setup, you can spend more time in the vehicle and away from a traditional office space. Use this flexibility to explore national parks, forests and beaches! With Wi-Fi access, you can stay connected and on top of your work.

Cheapest Way to Live Once You Move In

Finding an affordable unit is half the battle — now, you must make ends meet with your other monthly bills. Here are eight tips to live below your means while still enjoying life.

1. Maximize Your Living Space

Think about how much living space you really need. Do you require a desk for your home office, a roomy kitchen, or a hobby space? Consider what you can sacrifice in a small apartment that’s worth living without roommates. Creating firm requirements can help you avoid the temptation of renting more space than you need.

Then, find ways to maximize your living space to avoid feeling cramped. For example, multifunctional furniture makes life easier because of its varying uses. Your ottoman can be a storage bin for blankets and pet toys, while the coffee table can fulfill work-from-home needs. Smaller living spaces can get hectic, so prioritize weekly cleanings.

2. Create a Monthly Budget

Accountability is key when living alone, so how can you rein yourself in? Create a firm monthly budget so you know where your dollars go after they land in your bank account. Add up what you make every month, subtract your bills and you’ll see what’s leftover to put aside for saving and spending.

An important thing to remember is that you may need to adjust your budget occasionally. Your electricity bill could increase during the summer, or you may need to visit the doctor’s office unexpectedly. It’s OK to remain flexible with your budget if it guides your financial decisions.

3. Audit Your Spending

Spending money is necessary to pay rent and have food to eat. However, the cheapest way to live alone and be smart about finances is to audit your monthly bills. What are the recurring payments coming from your bank account? Check your statement at least once monthly to ensure you aren’t wasting money on stuff you don’t need. 

For example, you may have signed up for the gym and recently stopped going. Ensure your cancellation goes through so you don’t see money fly into the waste bin. Then, check the spending that you know is occurring. You may have to make tough decisions by canceling a subscription service or buying cheaper food.

4. Strategically Buy Groceries

Living alone can make dinnertime more challenging. You want to cook tasty meals without overpreparing because it could lead to waste. Therefore, it’s imperative to be strategic when buying groceries. One approach is to buy just enough ingredients to last a few days before you need to return to the grocery store. 

Another smart strategy is to utilize your freezer. This frigid space can keep meats, produce and pre-prepared meals safer for longer, helping those who live alone. Consider meal-prepping and storing your leftovers in the freezer to keep them edible and nutritious. Then, you can quickly heat up the dish and be ready to eat your dinner in just minutes.

5. Cook at Home

If you live by yourself, you may feel tempted to not cook at home at all. Ultimately, it’s a good idea to support local businesses when you like their food. However, going out for breakfast, lunch and dinner is far from the cheapest way to live. Reserve these outings for special occasions and keep most of the meals at home. 

Restaurants mark up the price of food to cover supplies and labor costs, so you’ll rarely get a deal cheaper than the grocery store. Higher costs mainly apply when eating lavish meals, such as filet mignon or caviar. Experts say premium dinners could see a 300% markup, so be careful when picking your meals.

6. Utilize Thrift Stores

Once you move into your apartment, you need to buy decor and furniture. However, it can get expensive if you don’t have someone else to split the cost. Limited budgets mean you should check out local thrift stores for the best deals. While the supplies are used, you may find terrific bargains that fit your needs. 

Thrift store shopping is also a good way to make your apartment more environmentally friendly. Buying secondhand reduces waste because you give kitchen appliances or rugs a second chance. If you prevent items from going to a landfill, you fulfill your duty as a responsible citizen.

7. Cut Your Utility Usage

Footing the utility bill means you’re in charge of lights and electronics in the apartment. Be conscious of your power consumption to reduce emissions and how much comes from your bank account each month. Where can you make changes to reduce your utility bill? Start with LED lights, which are more efficient and last longer than incandescent bulbs. 

One of the biggest factors in your utility bill is the thermostat. What temperature do you set in the summer and winter? Don’t let the HVAC blast during these seasons, considering its impact on your power consumption. If your unit allows, get a smart thermostat to set the temperature automatically. 

8. Consider Your Transportation Spending

The transportation footprint of your city can significantly affect your cost of living. If you live in Houston or Kansas City, you may have to use your vehicle more than desired. Single living in car-dependent towns means only using your car when necessary — otherwise, consider carpooling or going out less. 

Living in a city with more density means you should use the walking and biking infrastructure. These options are better for the environment and the cheapest way to live without a car. Some metropolitan areas have public transit, so map out your travel plans using a train or bus. Ultimately, you can save money using your car only when needed.

Find the Cheapest Way to Live Alone

No one has their life figured out when they start living in their first apartment. You’ll need time to get used to fluctuating bills, your income and how to handle your new routine. Once you get into a groove, you’ll discover opportunities to save money and live your best life.

Original Publish Date 7/30/2021 — Updated 2/20/2025