What Are Move-In Fees?

Move-in fees are one-time, upfront charges that landlords or managers require before you can take possession of an apartment. Unlike security deposits and other hidden fees, these are generally non-refundable and intended to cover administrative costs, apartment preparation, and minor wear-and-tear.

Move-in fees have become increasingly common in competitive rental markets. They’re often presented alongside other expenses, including the first month’s rent and pet fees. For budgeting purposes, it's best to factor them in from the very beginning of your apartment search.

Key Takeaways

• Move-in fees are non-refundable one-time charges renters pay that cover administrative costs, apartment prep, and minor wear-and-tear.
• Move-in fees are increasingly common in competitive rental markets, and they are usually added on top of the first month’s rent with other fees, like pet fees.
• Renters should budget for them early in their apartment search to avoid financial surprises.

What Is a Move-In Fee, Exactly?

A move-in fee is a payment you make to your landlord or property manager to offset the costs of getting your dream space ready. It’s typically non-refundable and due before you move into the apartment.

While the exact purpose varies, our research shows that these fees often help cover administrative tasks like lease processing, cleaning, or maintenance touch-ups. Some landlords prefer move-in fees over large deposits because they’re simpler to manage and don’t require them to return money at the end of the lease.

How Much Do Move-In Fees Cost?

Move-in fees typically range from $100 to $500, though they can be as high as 30% to 50% of one month's rent in some high-demand cities or luxury buildings.

Landlords often calculate fees as a flat rate rather than a percentage of rent. In some cases, high-end properties may charge amounts closer to a month’s rent, especially if the home requires significant preparation. Always ask for the exact amount before signing a lease to compare it with other rentals in your price range.

What Do Move-In Fees Cover?

Move-in fees generally cover the landlord’s expenses for preparing an apartment for a new tenant. This can include cleaning, minor repairs, painting, replacing locks, and administrative processing.

Sometimes, move-in fees are used for building-wide costs like elevator reservations in high-rises or additional security staffing during move-in days. Because these charges aren’t itemized by law in many cities, the specific uses can vary widely depending on the renter.

If you’re moving to a new location and are bringing a pet, you should expect additional costs beyond the base move-in fee. Landlords could potentially charge a non-refundable pet fee, ranging from $100 to $500 per animal, in addition to monthly pet rent as an added recurring expense. These charges help cover extra cleaning and potential wear-and-tear caused by pets.

In addition, there are apartment communities that impose smaller move-in fees tied to amenities or access items, such as key fobs, garage remotes, or gate openers. Some buildings also require amenity access fees for gyms, pools, utility collection, association dues, or shared spaces. While these fees are usually modest, they can add up quickly, especially if several members of your household need access.

These are standard move-in fees:

Application Fees

An application fee is the amount you pay when submitting a rental application. It usually falls between $25 and $100, but varies by city. This fee helps cover the cost of processing, which can include a background and/or credit checks.

Pet Fees

If you’re moving in with a cat, dog, or other type of animal, landlords may charge an additional pet fee or pet rent. Usually, this fee is non-refundable. These fees cover extra cleaning or potential damage, typically ranging from $100 to $500 per pet.

Utility Connection Fee

When moving into a new apartment, utility providers may charge a one-time connection or activation fee. This can apply to electricity, gas, cable, water, and internet services. The fee is typically modest, but it’s important to ask about it upfront so you’re not caught off guard by extra costs on your first bill.

First and Last Month’s Rent

Some landlords require both the first and last month’s rent upfront before you move in. This varies depending on the state and city you live in. The first month covers your initial occupancy, while the last month will be held until your lease ends. This ensures the landlord has payment security in case you move out early or fail to pay your final month’s rent.

Association Dues

If you’re renting a condo, townhouse, or unit in a building with a homeowners association (HOA), you may be responsible for those association dues. These fees help maintain shared spaces like landscaping, lobbies, gyms, and pools. Sometimes the landlord covers these costs, but there are cases where they’re passed on to tenants. It's always best to clarify in advance.

What Is a Security Deposit?

A security deposit is a refundable amount of money that landlords collect at the start of a renter's lease. It acts as financial protection against unpaid rent, property damage, or lease agreement violations. If the apartment is left in good condition, the deposit can usually be returned after you move out.

How Much Is a Security Deposit Typically?

Security deposits typically range from one to two months’ rent, depending on the property and the city and state laws. In competitive rental markets or luxury buildings, landlords may charge higher amounts for the security deposit. Always check your state’s regulations, since many have limits on how much a landlord can legally charge.

What Is the Difference Between a Move-In Fee and a Security Deposit?

A move-in fee is non-refundable, while a security deposit is refundable if you meet the terms of your lease and leave the vacant apartment in good condition.

Generally, a security deposit is meant as a safeguard for the landlord in case of damage or unpaid rent, whereas the move-in fee is essentially an administrative or preparation cost. There are cases where in some cities, security deposits are regulated more strictly than move-in fees, so landlords may favor the latter to reduce compliance requirements.

Can Landlords Impose a Move-In Fee and a Security Deposit?

Yes, landlords can require both a move-in fee and a security deposit. The move-in fee is a non-refundable one-time charge that covers administrative costs and minor apartment preparation. The security deposit is refundable and protects the landlord against unpaid rent or property damage. Although both fees are due at the start of the lease, they serve different purposes and are usually listed separately. Always confirm upfront costs needed to move into an apartment before signing to avoid surprises.

Can You Negotiate Move-In Fees?

Yes, there are instances where you can negotiate move-in fees. For example, if you’re moving during a slow rental season or the property has been vacant for a while.

Sometimes negotiation depends on timing and leverage. If you have excellent rental history, offer to sign a longer lease, or agree to move in quickly, landlords may be more willing to reduce or waive the fee. While you might not always win the negotiation, it’s worth asking before signing a lease.

Find Your Next Apartment

Renting comes with plenty of upfront costs: application fees, pet deposits, and yes, move-in fees. That’s why sticking to your budget matters from the start.

Apartment List’s personalized quiz helps you skip the endless scrolling and get matched with budget-friendly apartments that have everything you want—from location and amenities, to security deposit alternatives. Spend five minutes with us, save yourself 50 hours of searching, and give your wallet a break.