Renting vs. Owning in Glendale: What You’ll Pay
When comparing the cost of living in an apartment vs house in Glendale, the first factor to consider is monthly rent or mortgage payments. According to recent data, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Glendale is around $1,450 per month. In contrast, the average rent for a 3-bedroom house in Glendale is $2,100 per month. Of course, exact prices will vary based on location, amenities, and property condition.
Homeowners in Glendale can expect to pay a monthly mortgage that’s comparable to the rent for a similarly-sized house. However, they’ll also need to factor in additional costs like property taxes, homeowners insurance, and regular maintenance. Over time, owning a home tends to be more cost-effective than renting, especially as you build equity. But in the short term, renting is often more affordable and flexible.
Table: Cost Comparison – Apartment vs House
Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of common monthly costs in Glendale:
| Expense | 2BR Apartment | 3BR House |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage | $1,450 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $120 | $180 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Insurance | $15 | $100 |
| Maintenance/Repairs | $0 | $150 |
| HOA Fees | $0 | $50 |
| Total | $1,645 | $2,640 |
Estimates are for mid-range units with typical usage and are expressed in gross monthly figures (pre-tax).
Utility and Upkeep Differences
In addition to the base rent or mortgage, apartments and houses have different utility costs. Some key factors that impact monthly bills include:
- Square footage: Houses are usually larger, requiring more energy to heat and cool
- Outdoor spaces: Watering lawns and landscaping can significantly increase a house’s water bill
- Older systems: Many Glendale houses have older, less efficient HVAC and appliances compared to newer apartments
- Weatherization: Apartments often have shared walls and better insulation, reducing thermal transfer
Maintenance is another area where houses tend to be more expensive than apartments. Homeowners are solely responsible for repairs, yard work, pest control, and other upkeep, which can add hundreds to the monthly budget. In contrast, most apartment complexes handle these tasks for residents, covering the costs in the rent.
Lifestyle Tradeoffs
Of course, the decision between renting an apartment and buying a house involves more than just dollars and cents. Lifestyle factors play a big role, too. Apartments are popular with young professionals and empty nesters who value amenities, simplicity, and walkable locations. Many Glendale apartment complexes offer pools, gyms, package lockers, and easy access to dining and shopping.
Houses, on the other hand, tend to be favored by families who need more space, privacy, and autonomy. Having a yard for kids and pets to play in is a major draw, as is the freedom to customize and renovate the property. Many Glendale residents choose houses for the extra bedrooms, garage storage, and quiet neighborhoods away from busy commercial areas.
Which Is Cheaper Long Term in Glendale?
While renting is usually cheaper than owning on a monthly basis, buying a house can be a smart financial move long-term. Let’s say an apartment rents for $1,450/month, while a comparable house has a mortgage of $2,100/month (both gross figures). Over one year, the apartment would cost $17,400 and the house $25,200, a difference of $7,800.
However, after 5 years, the apartment would have cost $87,000 in rent with no equity to show for it. The house would have cost $126,000 in mortgage payments, but the owner would have built up approximately $40,000 in equity in a typical market. Plus, the house is likely to appreciate in value, while rents will keep increasing over time.
So while houses are more expensive initially, owning can be cheaper than renting for those planning to stay long-term in Glendale. Tools like this monthly budget calculator can help you crunch the numbers based on your specific situation.
FAQs About Housing Costs in Glendale
How much more does a house cost per month?
In Glendale, a typical house costs $500-$1,000 more per month than a comparable apartment when you factor in mortgage, taxes, insurance, and maintenance. However, the exact difference depends on the size, age, and location of the properties.
Do houses come with higher utility bills?
Yes, houses usually have higher utility costs than apartments since they are larger and have more exterior space. Older houses may also have less efficient HVAC systems and appliances. That said, upgraded houses with eco-friendly features can be cheaper than poorly insulated apartments.
Are apartments cheaper even with pet fees?
Most of the time, yes. While pet rent and deposits can add $25-$50/month to an apartment’s cost, this is still less than the added expenses of owning a house. However, pet owners should carefully review the complex’s policies on breed restrictions, dog walking, and so on.
Making the Right Housing Choice in Glendale
As this cost comparison shows, both apartments and houses have their financial pros and cons in Glendale. Apartments are generally cheaper, with a 2-bedroom unit saving around $1,000/month compared to a 3-bedroom house. They also require less time and money to maintain. However, houses provide more space, privacy, and autonomy for those willing to take on the added costs and responsibilities.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, family size, and future plans. An apartment makes sense for those who value simplicity, savings, and flexibility. A house is better for long-term stability, personalization, and building equity. Regardless of which path you choose, be sure to understand additional costs like property taxes and HOA fees to make an informed decision.