At 18, how hard is it to buy a cheap apartment and stay in it

United States
October 21, 2009 9:33pm CST
Well, I'm just a 16 year old boy thinking about my future :). My gf has some problems at home and she wants to get out as soon as possible. I always say We'll get an apartment in a couple years. Tell me.. is it possible, or how difficult would it be for a couple of teenagers or 18 year olds getting minimum wage, to afford a cheap apartment if they put their money together? Think of necessities, rent, and luxuries and what not.
3 responses
@svrider88 (115)
• United States
22 Oct 09
I moved out at 20 and It is slightly tough but not unbearable. I get paid over minimum wage but still. My girlfriend is unemployed quite often and money is tight.We were getting food stamps and that helped a lot. Food is your next highest bill after rent so if you can budget your food spending well (not fast food and not all name brand) and you make enough money for rent you can survive but its not fun at that level. I figure every month I spend just on necessities (food,rent,electric,hygiene products,and cleaning supplies) about 850 dollars. But, then you need to pay for gas,emergencies,cell phone,loans(if any),and clothing. Its not cheap. I understand your concern with you gf, mine kinda was the same way. Also remember that the cost of living in different parts of the us and world are different my rent maybe way cheaper than yours if you live in say New York City. All I can say is save up now and good luck, if it doesn't work out maybe you can still go back home?
• United States
22 Oct 09
thanks i live in DE so no concern with ridiculous high prices..did you go to college or go straight to the apartment?
• United States
24 Oct 09
I went to yti in york pa. I lived in an apartment over there. I don't know how I did it I didn't have a job. My apt was paid for with college. I only had 1300 dollars saved up to go there then I think my parents helped me the rest of the time as ar as food and necessities went.
@rhan04 (307)
• Philippines
22 Oct 09
If you can find a decent job, maybe it can help a little. But I doubt you would still have time to afford luxuries and all that. You're going to have to work double time. It's possible but I don't think it would be easy. Plus, you have to go to college right?
• United States
22 Oct 09
well..if i have to go to college i will..if i can find a decent job without it then i will
@rhan04 (307)
• Philippines
22 Oct 09
In my own opinion, it would be better if you would prioritize going to college first. Although education is not really an indication of success, it can still help you get a decent job.
@spalladino (17891)
• United States
22 Oct 09
It's possible for two teenagers to rent an apartment but you will need some time to build up your credit before you can buy one. A small studio apartment is the cheapest way to go if you're finances are tight.