It might be time to consider a roommate ( or two ) .
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Living alone can experience release , but it come at a cost . The harsh truth is that couples normally deal a importantly lower cost of living compared to singles who do not desire a roommate .

Credit:Alexander Spatari / Getty Images
concord to Zillow , those who last alone face asingles tax : the excess costs solo renter incur . Zillow recently reviewed which cities ’ one bear the highest damage for their singlehood and how much that cost has risen . Here ’s how much you ’ll have to pay to go roommate - costless , depending on your locating .
The Increasing Cost of Living Alone
Zillow say a 1 tax is “ the extra amount solo renters pay for a one - bedroom compared to splitting rent . ” In 2024 , that annual number climbed above $ 7,500 for the first sentence , marking a $ 450 increase from the former yr .
“ go alone means complete control over a space . renter candecorate exactly how they like , act their favorite euphony on repetition , and never compromise on the thermoregulator mise en scene , ” say rental trends expert Emily McDonald in a military press liberation . “ But the fiscal reality of solo renting issomething every tenant should consider . realize the full price of be alone can assist renter decide if it ’s the veracious move for their modus vivendi and budget . ”
As require , New York City remained the most expensive place for singles to live alone — with a whopping $ 20,100 singles tax ( nearly three times the national average ) . Zillow also noted that across the ball , couples or roommates share a one - sleeping room rental jointly save $ 15,123 annually .
Most Expensive Singles Tax Across the U.S.
If you ’re single and wait to move , this list will help you pinpoint the least single - friendly terminus where you will belike involve to share a lavatory or kitchen .
United States (National Average)
1. New York City
2. San Francisco
3. San Jose
4. Boston
5. Washington, D.C.
6. San Diego
7. Seattle
8. Los Angeles
9. Long Beach
10. Denver
The best way to battle the unity tax is to be strategic when apartment hunt . selection like rent - controlled units , negotiating letting terms , or research cobalt - life can shave off some expense . Zillow reps encouraged single to use the veridical estate of the realm website for discovering low-cost flat in any urban center , whether a one - bedroom or unmarried - family lease . test theirrent affordability calculatorto help you make a housing determination that works for you .