Renting, especially on a short-term basis, can sometimes come with higher monthly costs due to the increased flexibility it offers the landlord. For instance, a studio apartment for rent on a month-to-month basis might be more expensive per month than the same apartment under a lease agreement.
The minimum credit score needed to rent an apartment varies from location to location. Wealthier, more competitive areas will require a higher minimum score, as will new or luxury buildings. However, a good rule of thumb is that most landlords look for a credit score of at least 600.
Technically, there's no set minimum credit score to lease a car. Dealerships have their own underwriting minimums that vary from company to company. Even though there's no official minimum score, most vehicle leasing companies accept a score of 680 or higher.
Renting an apartment isn't as easy as waltzing in and saying “I'll take it!”—particularly in today's competitive rental market. With many prospective tenants to choose from, landlords can be picky, and they will prioritize applicants with a track record of paying off debts and respecting their neighbors and community.
In general, a landlord will look for a credit score that is at least “good,” which is generally in the range of 670 to 739. However, that can vary by landlord or property manager, as well as the location in which you're renting.
While there's no universal minimum credit score to rent an apartment, landlords generally prefer applicants with a good credit score, which is at least 670.
Housing (rent or mortgage) should not be more than 1/3 of your income before taxes. If you work full time (40 hours) at $12 per hour, that's $2000 per month, so you shouldn't spend more than $667 per month on housing. That's definitely going to restrict where you can live.
How to Rent an Apartment With Bad Credit Pay More Upfront. Most landlords and property managers require a security deposit and the first month's rent upfront. Provide Documents and References. Find a Cosigner or Guarantor. Get a Roommate. Search for Apartments That Don't Require Credit Checks.