As housing costs continue to rise, it is becoming important to ask: “Is apartment living more affordable?” It's a question that deserves a closer look if you’re downsizing, relocating, or simply re-evaluating your budget.
Many people are surprised to learn how much they can save, not just on rent, but through lower utility costs, fewer unexpected expenses, and the maintenance benefits of apartment living.
In this guide, we’ll explore the real financial and lifestyle benefits of renting, especially how apartments save money on utilities, reduce unexpected expenses, and offer valuable time-saving conveniences.
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When comparing the cost of an apartment vs house, many people look at just the rent versus a mortgage payment, but that’s only part of the picture. In reality, homeownership in New Jersey comes with a long list of extra expenses, some of which can be unpredictable or downright overwhelming.
Let’s answer a common question: What bills do you pay when renting an apartment, and how do they compare to owning a house?
When you own a home in Somerset County, you’re responsible for much more than just a mortgage. What bills do you pay when you own a house?
Mortgage (plus private mortgage insurance if applicable)
Property taxes: often $10,000+ annually in this area
Homeowners insurance: around $100/month
Maintenance and repairs: roof leaks, appliance breakdowns, HVAC servicing, and more
Landscaping and snow removal: DIY or hired out
Water/sewer and trash pickup
HOA or condo fees (if applicable)
And while owning can be rewarding, these costs can add up quickly. And some (like major repairs) can hit at the worst possible time.
By contrast, renting an apartment, especially in a professionally managed community like Country Classic's Fairway 28, comes with fewer responsibilities and more financial stability. What bills do you pay when renting an apartment?
Here’s a typical list:
Rent
Electric and Gas: Varies by usage (usually lower than in a house)
Internet and Cable: Based on your selected provider/package
Renter’s Insurance: Typically ~$10–$20 per month
Water, Sewer, and Trash: Depending on apartment offerings and lease agreements.
Maintenance and Repairs: Handled by the landlord at no cost to you
Lawn Care and Snow Removal: Included as part of your community services
With fewer bills and most services bundled into one monthly rent payment, apartment living offers both convenience and peace of mind. You won’t need to budget for emergency repairs or seasonal maintenance, and you’ll spend less time tracking multiple utility accounts or dealing with service providers.
|
Category |
Apartment |
House |
|
Monthly Housing Cost |
Rent (fixed) |
Mortgage + taxes + insurance |
|
Maintenance |
Included |
Out-of-pocket for all repairs |
|
Utilities |
Lower, some included |
Higher, paid separately |
|
Lawn/Snow Care |
Included |
DIY or contractor |
|
Flexibility |
High |
Low (selling or moving is complex) |
When you look at apartment expenses vs. the full scope of homeownership costs, renting emerges as a more manageable option for many people. Renters also have the flexibility to move to different properties that suit their tastes.
If you're planning on downsizing to an apartment to save money, check out our helpful guide: Tips for Moving from a Home to an Apartment.
Once you’ve factored in the reduced utility bills, zero repair costs, and fewer surprise expenses that come with apartment living, the savings are already clear. But there’s even more value hidden in the everyday conveniences and lifestyle perks that apartment residents enjoy, many of which add up to serious savings over time.
Here are a few less obvious but equally impactful ways apartment living saves money:
In many apartments, residents enjoy premium amenities without paying extra.
Think about how much you might spend each month on:
A gym membership
A co-working space
High-speed Wi-Fi upgrades
Package delivery services
Covered or secure parking
Now imagine having access to all of these amenities included with your rent:
A fully equipped fitness center
Resident lounge or business center
Outdoor grilling and social spaces
On-site package delivery rooms
Garage and surface parking options
These built-in features translate to real, monthly savings.
Location matters, and Country Classics apartments are strategically situated to help you spend less time (and money) on the road.
With quick access to I-287, Route 22, and NJ Transit, you're minutes from major employment hubs like New Brunswick, Bridgewater, and even NYC. Apartment living here reduces:
Gas and toll costs
Parking expenses
Wear and tear on your vehicle
Stress and time spent in traffic
For some renters, the location makes it possible to go car-free, a lifestyle change that can save thousands each year.
When you rent, you avoid the long-term financial commitments that come with owning a home, such as large down payments, closing costs, and market fluctuations. That flexibility makes it easier to:
Relocate for work or lifestyle changes
Free up cash for travel, retirement, or investment
Avoid costly home repairs or renovation surprises
Renting gives you the freedom to live well without the long-term financial commitment of homeownership.
With built-in amenities, lower transportation costs, and the freedom that comes with renting, apartment living offers real, everyday savings that go beyond the basics. For those looking to simplify, stay flexible, and keep more money in their pocket, it’s easy to see the advantages of renting, especially in a well-located community like The Somerset at Montgomery.
Apartment living is not just about saving money. It can give you back something even more valuable: your time.
When you rent at a community with Country Classics, your weekends won’t be spent mowing the lawn, fixing broken gutters, or driving across town for errands. Instead, you’ll have the freedom to do more of what you enjoy.
Here’s how apartment living saves time:
Forget spending your Saturday fixing a leaky faucet or scheduling a roofer. With professional maintenance teams just a call away, apartment residents never need to worry about repairs or upkeep.
Country Classics communities provide full landscaping and snow removal services, which is a huge time-saver during New Jersey’s seasonal extremes.
Need a workout? No more driving to the gym. Country Classics has apartment communities that offer a fully equipped fitness center just steps from your apartment. Other community amenities that are popular with renters, such as package rooms, lounge areas, and covered parking, make everyday tasks easier and more efficient.
Located near I-287, Route 22, and NJ Transit lines, The Somerset at Montgomery is ideal for commuters and remote workers alike. That is why Country Classics has thriving rental communities in this worker-friendly hub. Cutting down your commute means more time at home and less time on the road.
When you add it all up, the benefits of apartment living extend well beyond the monthly rent. It’s about convenience, peace of mind, and getting time back to focus on what matters most.
It’s clear that apartment life offers more than just a place to call home. It provides real financial advantages, everyday conveniences, and a more flexible lifestyle.
Country Classics' Homeward Bound Realty Team believes renters should feel just as at home in their apartments as homeowners do, and we are dedicated to helping them find the right fit.
If you are ready to find an apartment community to call home, contact our leasing team to learn more.