Renting vs. Owning in Beaverton: What You’ll Pay
When deciding between renting an apartment or buying a house in Beaverton, the cost difference is a key factor. On average, renting a 2-bedroom apartment in Beaverton costs around $1,800 per month, while a 3-bedroom house may have a monthly mortgage payment of $2,450. The median rent for a 3-bedroom house in Beaverton is $2,600 per month.
However, these costs can vary depending on the neighborhood and property age. For instance, the cost of renting a 3-bedroom house in Beaverton has increased by 5% over the last year, with more affordable options available in the Vose and Greenway neighborhoods.
It’s important to consider not just the monthly rent or mortgage, but also the additional costs associated with each housing type, such as utilities, maintenance, and lifestyle factors.
Table: Cost Comparison – Apartment vs House
Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of common monthly costs in Beaverton:
| Expense | 2BR Apartment | 3BR House |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage* | $1,800 | $2,450 |
| Utilities | $120 | $250 |
| Internet | $60 | $80 |
| Insurance | $15 | $100 |
| Maintenance | $0 | $150 |
| HOA | $0 | $50 |
| Total | $1,995 | $3,080 |
*Mortgage based on 10% down, 30-year fixed at 3.5%. Estimates are for mid-range units with typical usage.
Utility and Upkeep Differences
In addition to the base rent or mortgage, apartments and houses have different utility and maintenance costs:
- Water/Sewer: Often included in rent for apartments, but paid separately for houses (about $80/month).
- Electricity: Houses typically use more power and have higher bills, especially with A/C in the summer. Expect $120/month for apartments and $200+ for houses.
- Heating: Gas heat is common in Beaverton houses, adding $50-100/month in winter. Apartments are usually cheaper to heat.
- Yard Care: Not applicable for most apartments, but budget $50+/month for lawn mowing and landscaping for a house.
Houses also require more interior upkeep, such as repainting, floor and fixture repairs, and appliance maintenance. Homeowners should budget at least 1% of the home value annually for maintenance.
Lifestyle Tradeoffs
Aside from costs, apartments and houses offer different lifestyles in Beaverton. Apartments are often closer to downtown amenities and public transit, with less space but also less upkeep. They may have shared walls and limited outdoor areas.
Houses provide more privacy, yard space, and room to spread out, but also require more cleaning and maintenance. They’re better for families and pets but may be farther from city centers. Parking and noise are also factors.
Many Beaverton residents choose apartments for walkability and simplicity, while families prefer houses for the extra bedrooms and kid-friendly neighborhoods. Some may prefer an apartment near Nike or Intel for a short commute, while others enjoy the space of a suburban house.
Which Is Cheaper Long Term in Beaverton?
While renting is often cheaper month-to-month, buying can be more economical over time. Assuming a 2% annual rent increase, a $1,800/month Beaverton apartment would cost $116,825 over 5 years. In contrast, a $400,000 house (with 10% down) would build about $60,000 in equity in that time, even including maintenance and repairs.
However, this depends on your lifestyle and how long you plan to stay. Renting provides more flexibility and liquidity, while owning offers tax benefits and wealth-building. Weigh your personal goals and create a monthly budget to determine the best path.
FAQs About Housing Costs in Beaverton
How much more does a house cost per month?
In Beaverton, a typical house costs $1,000+ more per month than an apartment when you factor in the mortgage, utilities, insurance, and upkeep. However, some of this goes toward equity instead of pure expenses.
Do houses come with higher utility bills?
Yes, houses in Beaverton usually have higher utility costs for electricity, gas, water, and sewer. This is due to larger square footage, yard watering, and less efficient heating/cooling. Plan for at least $200/month more than an apartment.
Are apartments cheaper even with pet fees?
Most apartments are still cheaper than houses even with pet rent (often $50/month) factored in. However, some apartments have breed or size restrictions, so dog owners may need to budget more for a pet-friendly rental.
Making the Right Housing Choice in Beaverton
When comparing the cost of living in an apartment vs. a house in Beaverton, apartments are generally cheaper, with a typical difference of $1,000 or more per month. However, houses provide more space, privacy, and long-term financial benefits.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, family size, location needs, and financial goals. Use this cost breakdown as a starting point, and be sure to understand property taxes and HOA fees as you weigh your options. With careful planning, you can find the perfect Beaverton home at a price point that works for you.