From Parent’s House to First Apartment: A Young Adult’s Moving Guide
Moving out of your parent’s house and into your first apartment is a major milestone. It’s exciting, freeing—and a little overwhelming. There’s more to it than packing your things and grabbing the keys. Whether you’re moving for work, college, or simply independence, here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to help you start strong.
1. Plan Your Finances First
Before you sign any leases or shop for furniture, take a close look at your budget. Know what you can afford in monthly rent—and don’t forget to factor in:
- Utilities (electricity, water, internet, gas)
- Renter’s insurance
- Groceries and household supplies
- Transportation
- Emergency savings
A general rule: your rent should be no more than 30% of your monthly income. If your budget’s tight, consider roommates or looking further from city centers for better deals.
2. Find the Right Apartment
Once you’ve set your budget, start apartment hunting. Look beyond aesthetics—pay attention to:
- Location (proximity to work/school, safety, public transit)
- Lease terms (duration, penalties, renewal options)
- Included amenities (laundry, parking, heat, internet)
Tour several places in person if possible, or ask for virtual tours if not. Read reviews of the property or landlord. Don’t feel rushed—this is where you’ll live, not just crash.
3. Understand Your Lease
Read your lease carefully before signing. Know what’s expected of you—and what your rights are. Key things to look for:
- Security deposit details
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Guest policies
- Pet rules
- What happens if you need to move out early
If anything’s unclear, ask questions. It’s your right as a tenant to understand every line of your agreement.
4. Make a Smart Packing Plan
Packing is more than stuffing boxes. It’s your first real test of adult logistics. Start with:
- Decluttering: Leave behind what you don’t use or need.
- Supplies: Get boxes, tape, markers, and bubble wrap. Ask grocery stores or check local community groups for free moving boxes.
- Labeling: Mark boxes with the room and contents. It’ll save you time during unpacking.
Pack a “first night” bag with clothes, toiletries, chargers, and essentials. Moving day will be long—you’ll thank yourself later.
If you’re looking for reliable help with the move itself, check out https://www.evergreenmtnmovers.org/services/local-moving-company-evergreen.
5. Furnish Slowly and Wisely
Don’t feel pressured to furnish your apartment all at once. Start with the basics:
- Bed
- Table and chair
- Dishes and cookware
- Cleaning supplies
- Shower curtain and toiletries
Buy second-hand when possible—thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and friends are goldmines for affordable finds. Prioritize comfort and function over style at the beginning.
6. Set Up Utilities and Address
Before move-in day, contact local utility companies to set up:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water
- Internet
Also, change your address with the USPS, update your billing info with banks and subscriptions, and let friends and family know.
7. Learn the Basics of Adulting
Living on your own means taking care of everyday responsibilities. Learn how to:
- Cook basic meals
- Do laundry
- Clean regularly
- Pay bills on time
- Handle simple repairs or know who to call
Don’t stress about perfection. You’ll figure it out with time—and Google.
8. Build Your Own Space
Make your new apartment feel like home. Hang photos, add plants, or decorate with items that reflect your personality. You don’t need a huge budget—creativity goes a long way. Creating a space you love boosts comfort and confidence in your new independence.
Final Thoughts
Moving into your first apartment is a big leap into adulthood. It comes with a learning curve, but it’s also an opportunity to grow, explore, and define your life on your own terms. Plan ahead, ask for help when you need it, and take it one step at a time. You’ve got this.
