Finding a home should be a pleasurable experience: here you are, ready to move into your dream home or apartment, in a neighborhood or city you like. But there’s just one problem: the rent. Depending on where you want to live, the amenities you’re looking for, and how much you can afford, rent can be extraordinarily high. Here’s what $2,000 in rent can get you in 8 different U.S. cities.
New York, NY
Size: Studio, 1 bath
Neighborhood: Upper East Side
Everything you need may be just outside your door, and this New York neighborhood is known for being one of the most posh areas in the five boroughs. The price may reflect the fact that you’ll likely be just steps away from some of the world’s most prized museums or even Central Park, but you may be disappointed by the size of the apartment. You’ll get no Carrie Bradshaw-esque abode for this price. Instead, expect a small studio just big enough to fit the essentials. But if you live in this neighborhood, you’re perhaps more likely to spend most of your time enjoying everything Manhattan has to offer.
Denver, CO
Size: Studio to 1-bedroom apartment in a luxury building
Neighborhood: Union Station North
Denver’s real estate scene offers a little more than New York’s, thankfully for those who live in, or are looking to move to Colorado’s capital. Luxury buildings are becoming more and more common outside the city’s downtown area without being too removed from it. Not only is Union Station North not far from the downtown area, but it’s also close to the River North Art District, an up-and-coming neighborhood known for its gritty roots, punk-rock industrial vibe, art galleries, and breweries.
Richmond, VA
Size: 4 bedroom, 2 bath
Neighborhood: Monroe Ward
Central Virginia may not be the area of choice for those chasing the big city lifestyle, but Richmond may be busy enough for some to make it home. Those people may be lucky enough to find the home of their dreams: $2,000 in rent may get them a 4 bedroom home! The historic neighborhood of Monroe Ward is located between VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University) and Downtown Richmond. It’s quite popular with the students, so residents may enjoy the youthful vibe along with a rich music and art scene.
Washington, D.C.
Size: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Neighborhood: Logan Circle
The nation’s capital may not be as expensive as the Big Apple, but this residential neighborhood may hold a few gems when it comes down to housing. Close to Dupont Circle, George Washington University, and Downtown D.C., this area is popular with young professionals and has a large LGTBQ population, thanks to gentrification that transformed the neighborhood in the 2000’s. Of course, if you plan on living in Washington D.C., you’ll have no shortage of things to do, and living in such a historic neighborhood may only add to your experience.
San Francisco, CA
Size: Studio, 1 bath
Neighborhood: Tenderloin
San Francisco, a capital for artists, may be quite pricey when it comes down to housing, but if you’re willing to look at neighborhoods outside the downtown area, you may be in luck. Although Tenderloin may be notorious for its crime rate, its proximity to the Union Square shopping district is making it an increasingly desirable place to live. $2,000 may still get you a decently sized studio, if you’re willing to live outside the center of town.
Miami, FL
Size: 1 bedroom, 1 bath in a luxury building
Neighborhood: Downtown Miami
This is a real steal! You may be able to rent a 1-bedroom apartment for just under $2,000 not only in Downtown Miami, but located right off the water and beaches! If you’re a sun and surf lover, and in the market for a new home, you may want to consider living here if the price suits your budget. With ocean views, luxury amenities, and close proximity to shopping and entertainment, who wouldn’t want to live here?
Salt Lake City, UT
Size: 2 bedroom, 2 bath in a luxury building
Neighborhood: Western, close to Downtown Salt Lake City
Downtown Salt Lake City is on the up-and-up: it’s generally considered to be a hip and trendy neighborhood filled with art and culture and many new experiences in the hospitality industry. For just $2,000 in rent, you can be in close proximity of all of that. Although living in Utah may not be for everyone, it may appeal to those looking to spend a decent amount of time skiing in their down time.
Kansas City, MO
Size: 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom house
Neighborhood: West Plaza
Like in Richmond, you may be able to snag a good-sized house for relatively not a lot of cash. West Plaza is a little more low-key than the Downtown area, and is mostly comprised of housing and some small businesses like antique shops. But the neighborhood’s quieter nature may be one of its main draws. If you’re looking to settle down away from the hustle and bustle of the big city and the midwest is an area you’re looking at, you may want to consider this quiet little Kansas City neighborhood.
Finding a home is difficult, and you may not find your dream house right away. But if you’re looking for a home, you may be lucky enough to find one that just right for you. Check out new neighborhoods, or even towns, and you may be surprised by what’s out there!