Cost Comparison: Living in a House vs Apartment in Brentwood

Renting vs. Owning in Brentwood: What You’ll Pay

When deciding between an apartment or house in Brentwood, TN, cost is often a key factor. On average, renting a 2BR apartment in Brentwood typically costs around $1,800/month, while a 3BR house may cost closer to $2,450/month. The average rent for a 3BR house in Brentwood is $2,450/month. The cost of renting a 3BR house in Brentwood has increased by 6% over the last year, with more affordable options available in neighborhoods like Brenthaven.

For those looking to buy, the median home price in Brentwood is $689,000. Over 60% of new homebuyers in Brentwood opt for detached single-family homes. However, townhomes and condos can provide a more affordable path to ownership, with prices starting around $300,000.

Table: Cost Comparison – Apartment vs House

Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of common monthly costs in Brentwood:

*Mortgage based on median home price with 20% down. Estimates are for mid-range units with typical usage.

Utility and Upkeep Differences

In addition to higher base rent or mortgage costs, houses in Brentwood tend to have higher utility and maintenance expenses compared to apartments:

• Water/Sewer: Houses use 25-50% more water for laundry, dishes, and irrigation.
• Electricity: Cooling a house costs 30-40% more than an apartment. Many Brentwood homes still use less efficient HVAC.
• Lawn Care: Most houses require $100-200/month for mowing, landscaping, and pest control.
• Maintenance: From appliances to plumbing, houses have more systems that need upkeep and repair over time.

Newer apartment complexes in Brentwood often include trash service and sometimes even internet in the base rent. Houses require paying for these separately, adding $50-100/month in total utility costs.

Lifestyle Tradeoffs

Many Brentwood residents choose apartments for the walkability and low-maintenance lifestyle, while families often prefer houses for the extra space and privacy. Apartments are popular near Maryland Farms and the Town Center, providing easy access to shopping, dining and entertainment.

Houses appeal to those who value outdoor space for gardening, playdates, and pets. With a private driveway, houses also offer guaranteed parking – a perk for those who drive to work. Some may prefer the community feel of an apartment complex, while others enjoy the autonomy of living in a detached home.

Ultimately, the best fit depends on your stage of life, household size, and personal preferences. Can You Afford to Live in Brentwood? Monthly Budget Guide can help you assess how housing fits into your larger financial picture.

Which Is Cheaper Long Term in Brentwood?

While renting is often cheaper month-to-month, buying can be more economical over a longer horizon. Assuming a 4% annual rent increase, renting a $1,800 2BR apartment in Brentwood would cost $116,000 over 5 years. Owning a $689,000 house with 20% down would cost $154,000 over that same period, including the mortgage, taxes, insurance, and upkeep.

However, $39,000 of those payments would go toward building equity. Factoring in modest 2% annual appreciation, the homeowner would come out ahead by around $20,000 after 5 years. The key is having funds for the down payment and being able to stay put long enough for appreciation to outpace the higher upfront costs of buying.

FAQs About Housing Costs in Brentwood

How much more does a house cost per month?
In Brentwood, a typical house costs $1,100 more per month than an apartment when you factor in the mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities, and upkeep. However, a portion of that goes toward building equity.

Do houses always have higher utility bills?
Houses in Brentwood tend to have 25-50% higher utility costs than apartments due to more space to heat and cool, higher water usage, and extra services like trash and lawn care that are often included with apartment rent.

Are apartments cheaper even with pet rent?
Even with a $30-50 monthly pet rent, apartments in Brentwood are usually cheaper than houses when you consider the all-in costs. However, houses offer more space and a private yard that many pet owners value.

Making the Right Housing Choice in Brentwood

Choosing between an apartment and a house in Brentwood ultimately comes down to your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Renting an apartment can cost $1,100 less per month, providing more short-term flexibility. Buying a house means higher monthly costs but the opportunity to build equity over time.

As you weigh your options, be sure to factor in expenses like property taxes and HOA fees to get a full picture of the costs. Whether you rent or buy, living in Brentwood provides access to excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a high quality of life – making it a great place to call home.