Renting vs. Owning in Milwaukie: What You’ll Pay
When deciding between an apartment or house in Milwaukie, the cost difference is a key factor. On average, renting a 2-bedroom apartment in the city costs around $1,650 per month. In contrast, a 3-bedroom house typically rents for closer to $2,200 monthly. The median rent for a single-family home in Milwaukie is $2,195.
Of course, exact prices depend on the neighborhood, age of the property, and included amenities. Apartments near downtown Milwaukie and the Orange Line MAX tend to be pricier, while houses further out or in older areas may be more affordable. Over the past year, the cost of renting a 3BR house in Milwaukie has risen about 4%, with better deals available in neighborhoods like Hector Campbell.
Cost Comparison: Apartment vs House in Milwaukie
Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of typical monthly costs when renting in Milwaukie:
| Expense | 2BR Apartment | 3BR House |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage | $1,650 | $2,200 |
| Utilities (water, electric, gas) | $180 | $320 |
| Internet | $65 | $75 |
| Renter’s/Homeowner’s Insurance | $15 | $80 |
| Maintenance & Repairs | $0* | $150 |
| HOA Fees | $0 | $0** |
| Total | $1,910 | $2,825 |
*Included in rent
**Not all houses have HOA fees. Typical Milwaukie HOA fees range from $200-400 when applicable. See our guide on property taxes and HOA costs in Milwaukie for details.
These estimates reflect mid-range units with typical usage. Your exact costs will vary based on the property, your lifestyle, and your monthly budget. But in general, expect to pay around $900 more per month for a house compared to an apartment in Milwaukie.
Utility and Upkeep Differences
In addition to higher rent, houses in Milwaukie tend to have steeper utility and maintenance costs than apartments:
- Water/sewer: Houses use 30-40% more water than apartments on average, leading to higher bills. Watering a lawn or garden amplifies this difference.
- Electricity: Cooling and heating a larger space means higher electric and gas bills in houses. Many Milwaukie homes rely on window A/C units or older furnaces, which are less efficient.
- Landscaping: Lawn care and yard work are time-consuming and potentially costly. Expect to spend $100+ monthly if you hire out mowing, weeding, trimming, etc.
- Pest control: Houses are more prone to ants, mice, and other critters. Budget for preventative treatments and spot control as needed.
Newer Milwaukie apartments often include water, sewer, and sometimes even internet in the rent. They also cover all exterior upkeep and many interior repairs. So while the base rent is lower, apartments provide more predictable monthly costs compared to the variable expenses of a house.
Lifestyle Tradeoffs: Space vs Simplicity
For many Milwaukie residents, the choice between an apartment or house comes down to lifestyle priorities, not just cost. Apartments offer a simpler, lower-maintenance way of life. They’re often located in more walkable areas near shops, restaurants, and transit. Newer buildings provide attractive amenities like gyms, community rooms, and package lockers.
However, apartments come with less space, both indoors and out. Noise from close-by neighbors can be an issue, especially if you work from home. Many complexes have pet restrictions or charge monthly pet rent. And while some Milwaukie apartments include a parking spot, you’ll compete for on-street parking for a second vehicle.
Houses give you more room to spread out, host gatherings, and enjoy a private yard. They’re a better fit for larger families, hobby projects, and people who value maximum control over their space. Many Milwaukie neighborhoods have a park-like feel with mature trees and gardens. You’ll also have an easier time finding pet-friendly houses for rent.
The tradeoff is more time spent on upkeep and higher monthly costs. You’ll likely have a longer commute and may need to drive more for errands. Some prefer the urban buzz of an apartment near downtown Milwaukie. Others appreciate the breathing room and natural surroundings a house provides. There’s no universally right answer.
Which Costs Less Long-Term?
If you plan to rent for several years, which option will save you more money in Milwaukie: an apartment or a house? Let’s compare the five-year cost of each, assuming modest annual rent increases:
| Year | 2BR Apartment | 3BR House |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $22,920 | $33,900 |
| 2 | $23,608 | $34,917 |
| 3 | $24,316 | $35,965 |
| 4 | $25,045 | $37,044 |
| 5 | $25,796 | $38,155 |
| Total | $121,685 | $179,981 |
The five-year cost difference is substantial: over $58,000 in this example. Even if you buy a house, rising property values won’t necessarily offset the higher carrying costs. Of course, this doesn’t account for the intangible benefits of more space and a yard. And with a house, you gain equity over time.
But purely from an out-of-pocket cost perspective, apartments are clearly cheaper than houses in Milwaukie, both month-to-month and long-term. Rents would need to skyrocket over 10% per year for houses to become the more economical option. Possible, but unlikely given the city’s historical trends.
FAQs About Milwaukie Housing Costs
How much more does a house cost than an apartment in Milwaukie?
On average, expect to pay about $900 more per month for a 3-bedroom house compared to a 2-bedroom apartment in Milwaukie. That’s roughly $10,800 more per year. Keep in mind that houses have additional costs like higher utilities, insurance, and maintenance.
Do Milwaukie houses have higher utility bills than apartments?
Yes, houses in Milwaukie typically have utility costs that are $100-200 higher per month than apartments. Exact amounts depend on the size and age of the house, as well as your usage. But heating, cooling, and powering a larger space generally leads to steeper bills.
Are apartments still cheaper than houses even with pet fees?
In most cases, yes. While many Milwaukie apartments charge pet rent or one-time fees, it’s not enough to offset the cost difference compared to a house. Budget an extra $25-50 per month for a cat or small dog. Larger breeds may be $75-100 monthly. But houses still cost hundreds more in rent alone.
Making the Right Housing Choice in Milwaukie
Choosing between an apartment or a house in Milwaukie is a blend of budget considerations and lifestyle priorities. If minimizing monthly costs is your top goal, apartments are the clear winner. Even with pet fees and parking costs, you’ll likely save at least $500 per month compared to a house—and enjoy more predictable expenses.
However, a house may be worth the added cost if you value space, privacy, and a neighborhood feel. Houses give you more room for family, friends, and hobbies, with the bonus of a private yard. This square footage comes with tradeoffs like more upkeep and potentially a longer commute. But many find the breathing room and outdoor access worthwhile.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, household size, and how you want to spend your time. Weigh the total cost difference against the gains in space and control to determine which option fits your life best. And don’t forget to explore our other articles on budgeting and homeownership costs in Milwaukie as you make your decision.