Renting vs. Owning in San Tan Valley: What You’ll Pay
When deciding between renting an apartment or buying a house in San Tan Valley, the cost of living is a key factor. On average, the monthly rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in San Tan Valley is around $1,450. The average rent for a 3-bedroom house in San Tan Valley is $2,100 per month. Keep in mind, these are gross figures before taxes and fees.
Of course, rent is just one part of the equation. Utilities, maintenance, and lifestyle preferences also impact the total cost of housing. Let’s break down the numbers to see how apartments and houses really compare in San Tan Valley.
Table: Cost Comparison – Apartment vs House
Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of common monthly costs in San Tan Valley:
| Expense | 2BR Apartment | 3BR House |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage | $1,450 | $2,100 |
| Electricity | $120 | $180 |
| Water | $40 | $80 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Renter’s/Homeowner’s Insurance | $15 | $100 |
| Maintenance & Repairs | $0 | $150 |
| HOA Fees | $200 | $50 |
| Total | $1,885 | $2,720 |
Estimates are for mid-range units with typical usage, expressed as gross monthly costs before taxes.
Utility and Upkeep Differences
In general, houses have higher utility costs than apartments. Some key differences:
- Houses have more exterior surface area, so heating and cooling costs are higher
- Water bills are often 2-3x more in a house due to lawn irrigation
- Houses have more space and systems to maintain, from gutters to appliances
- Many newer apartments include water, trash, and sometimes internet in the rent
In San Tan Valley, many homes use energy-efficient heat pumps and desert landscaping to keep utility costs in check. Apartments may have lower bills overall, but less control over usage and fees.
Lifestyle Tradeoffs
Ultimately, the choice between an apartment and a house is about more than just cost. Lifestyle fit matters too. Houses provide more space, privacy and room to grow. They’re great for families who want a yard, garage and space to spread out.
Apartments work well for singles, couples and anyone who values simplicity and convenience. They require less maintenance and often have amenities like gyms and pools on-site. Many San Tan Valley residents choose apartments for their affordability and walkable locations, while families prefer houses for the extra square footage.
Which Is Cheaper Long Term in San Tan Valley?
While renting is almost always cheaper than owning short-term, the long-term costs are a bit more complex. Let’s compare the 5-year outlook for a typical apartment and house in San Tan Valley.
Assuming 4% annual rent increases, a $1,450/month apartment would cost around $95,000 over five years. Utilities, insurance and fees add another $22,500, for a total of $117,500.
For a $400,000 house, monthly payments on a 5% 30-year mortgage would start around $2,150 and climb to $2,400 by year five. Add in property taxes, insurance, maintenance and utilities, and the 5-year cost comes to roughly $185,000 before tax benefits.
So while an apartment is decidedly cheaper up front, the gap narrows over time as rents rise and equity builds. Assuming typical appreciation, a San Tan Valley homeowner could recoup their higher payments when they eventually sell.
FAQs About Housing Costs in San Tan Valley
How much more does a house cost per month?
In San Tan Valley, the average house costs about $800 more per month than an apartment before taxes and equity are considered. Review our Monthly Budget Examples for San Tan Valley Residents to see how housing fits into the big picture.
Do houses come with higher utility bills?
Yes, houses typically have utility costs 50-100% higher than apartments in San Tan Valley. The exact difference depends on the size, age and efficiency of each property.
Are apartments cheaper even with pet fees?
For most renters, apartments are still cheaper than houses even factoring in pet rent and deposits. The typical pet fee adds $25-50 per month. Some complexes also charge one-time fees from $150-500.
Making the Right Housing Choice in San Tan Valley
As this cost comparison shows, apartments are generally the cheapest option in San Tan Valley, running about $800 less per month than houses. For maximum savings, look for communities that bundle utilities and have reasonable HOA fees.
However, budget isn’t the only consideration. Houses provide a sense of ownership and room to grow that appeals to many San Tan Valley families. With smart shopping and a long-term horizon, a house can be a rewarding financial and lifestyle choice.
Ultimately, the best option comes down to your personal priorities and plans. An apartment delivers low-maintenance living at the lowest cost, while a house is an investment in space and stability. Weigh the tradeoffs carefully to find the right fit for your needs and budget.