Renting vs. Owning in Renton: What You’ll Pay
When deciding between an apartment or house in Renton, it’s important to compare the full cost of living in each housing type. Renting a 2BR apartment in Renton typically costs $2,100/month, while a 3BR house may cost $2,800/month. The average rent for a 3BR house in Renton is $2,750/month. However, the cost of renting a house has increased by 6% over the last year, with more affordable options available in the Benson Hill and Talbot Hill neighborhoods.
For homebuyers, the median home price in Renton is $650,000 as of 2025. With a 20% down payment and 3.5% 30-year fixed mortgage, the monthly payment would be around $2,900 (not including taxes, insurance, and HOA fees). Property taxes in Renton average 0.93% and HOA fees range from $200-500/month, pushing the total monthly cost of owning a home closer to $3,500.
Table: Cost Comparison – Apartment vs House
Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of common monthly costs in Renton:
| Expense | 2BR Apartment | 3BR House |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage* | $2,100 | $2,900 |
| Utilities | $120 | $250 |
| Internet | $65 | $75 |
| Renters/Homeowners Insurance | $15 | $80 |
| Maintenance | $0 | $150 |
| HOA | $0 | $350 |
| Total | $2,300 | $3,805 |
*Mortgage estimate based on $650K home price, 20% down, 3.5% 30-year fixed. Estimates are for mid-range units with typical usage.
Utility and Upkeep Differences
In addition to higher base housing costs, houses in Renton also come with higher utility and maintenance expenses compared to apartments:
- Water/sewer: Houses use 2-3X more water, adding $80+/month
- Electricity: Cooling and heating a larger space costs $100+ more
- Yard care: Lawn mowing, landscaping, and gutter cleaning adds $100+/month
- Repairs: From appliances to plumbing, homeowners spend 1-2% of their home’s value on maintenance each year
The added square footage and systems in a house drive up monthly utility costs significantly. Homeowners should budget at least $400/month for utilities, plus a savings fund for inevitable repairs and updates over time. Renters pay much less in utilities but sacrifice some control over energy efficiency upgrades.
Lifestyle Tradeoffs
Choosing between an apartment or house in Renton is not just a financial decision. Lifestyle fit is equally important. Many young professionals and empty nesters opt for apartments near The Landing or Downtown to enjoy walkability to shops, restaurants, and transit. Families tend to prefer houses in the Highlands or Kennydale neighborhoods for the extra bedrooms, yard space, and highly-rated schools.
Other key factors include:
- Noise: Apartments have shared walls and less sound insulation
- Parking: Houses usually include a garage and driveway. Apartments may charge extra for covered parking.
- Pets: Many apartments restrict dog breeds/sizes or charge pet rent. Houses offer more flexibility.
- Amenities: Newer Renton apartments often include gym, pool, roof deck, and social spaces.
Some may prefer the turnkey convenience of an apartment near shops and trails, while others prioritize the autonomy and space of a detached house. With remote work on the rise, extra rooms for an office or gym are increasingly important.
Which Is Cheaper Long Term in Renton?
While renting is cheaper than owning month-to-month, homeownership can be more economical long-term. Assuming 3% annual rent increases, a renter will pay $142,000 over 5 years for a 2BR apartment in Renton. Owning a comparable $650K house (with 20% down) would cost $208,000 over 5 years, but $65,000 would go toward the principal. The net cost of ownership is $143,000 — on par with renting but with the potential for appreciation.
Of course, this math depends heavily on your down payment, interest rate, and home maintenance costs. Renting remains more predictable, with fewer surprise expenses. As you plan your monthly budget, consider your short and long-term financial goals.
FAQs About Housing Costs in Renton
How much more does a house cost per month vs. an apartment in Renton?
A typical house in Renton costs $1,000-$1,500 more per month than an apartment when you factor in the full cost of ownership — mortgage, taxes, insurance, HOA, utilities, and upkeep. However, a portion of the mortgage goes toward building equity.
Do houses always have higher utility bills than apartments?
Yes, houses in Renton tend to have 30-50% higher utility costs than apartments due to more space to heat/cool, higher water usage, and additional maintenance needs like yard care. Expect to pay at least $250/month in utilities for a 3BR house vs. $150/month for a 2BR apartment.
Are apartments still cheaper than houses even with pet rent and parking fees?
In most cases, yes. Even with an extra $50/month for pet rent and $100/month for parking, the all-in cost of renting a 2BR apartment in Renton ($2,450) is still considerably lower than the $3,500+/month cost of owning a house when you include the full mortgage payment, taxes, insurance, HOA, and upkeep.
Making the Right Housing Choice in Renton
Ultimately, the decision between an apartment or house in Renton is both financial and lifestyle-driven. Renting is more affordable and flexible short-term, while buying can be cheaper long-term and offers more stability. Houses provide more space and independence but come with added costs and responsibilities. Apartments are more turnkey and often walkable to urban amenities.
Take time to assess your budget, location preferences, and long-term goals as you weigh the pros and cons. Whether you opt for a modern apartment near The Landing or a charming craftsman in Kennydale, Renton offers diverse housing options for every life stage and budget.