Renting your first apartment is exciting—and intimidating. LA's rental market can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you'll be ready. This guide walks you through everything: what documents you need, how much money to save, what to look for, and mistakes to avoid.
How Much Money You Need
Before you start searching, make sure you have enough saved. Here's what to expect:
First-Time Renter Costs (for $2,000/month apartment)
Income Requirements
Most LA landlords require that your gross monthly income is 2.5-3x the monthly rent. For a $2,000/month apartment, you'd need to earn $5,000-6,000/month ($60,000-72,000/year).
Don't meet the income requirement? Options include:
- Co-signer/Guarantor — A parent or relative who agrees to pay if you can't
- Larger deposit — Some landlords accept extra security deposit
- Roommates — Combined income counts
- Show savings — Proof of substantial bank balance can help
Documents You'll Need
Application Document Checklist
Driver's license, passport, or state ID
Recent pay stubs, or offer letter if starting a new job
Shows you have savings for deposit
Last 1-2 years, sometimes required
Previous landlord, employer, or personal references
For credit check (landlord will run this)
No Rental History?
If this is your very first apartment, you won't have landlord references. That's okay! You can:
- Provide employer references
- Show a strong credit score
- Offer a larger security deposit
- Use a co-signer/guarantor
- Provide character references (professor, boss)
Your Credit Score
Most landlords will check your credit. While requirements vary, here's what to expect:
No credit history? This is common for first-time renters. A co-signer, larger deposit, or strong income documentation can help.
What to Look For in an Apartment
Must-Haves
- Within budget — All-in cost including utilities, parking
- Reasonable commute — Check rush hour times!
- Safe neighborhood — Visit at night too
- Working appliances — Test everything during tour
- Good cell signal — Check during the tour
- Secure entry — Working locks, well-lit areas
Nice-to-Haves
- In-unit laundry (rare in LA, but amazing)
- Parking included (crucial in most areas)
- A/C (very important in summer, especially inland)
- Dishwasher
- Good natural light
- Outdoor space (balcony, yard)
Research Before You Rent
Before signing, always research the building and landlord. A cheap apartment in a problem building is never a good deal.
Check Building Quality
Search any LA address to see code violations, building history, and quality scores. Know what you're getting into.
Search a BuildingCommon First-Timer Mistakes
Avoid These Mistakes
- Not reading the lease — Read every word before signing
- Skipping the walkthrough — Document existing damage with photos
- Ignoring commute time — Check rush hour drive/transit times
- Not budgeting for utilities — Add $100-200/mo for electricity, internet
- Forgetting parking — Can add $100-300/mo in LA
- Sending money before seeing apartment — Common scam
- Not getting renters insurance — Cheap and required by most landlords
Know Your Rights
As a California tenant, you have legal protections:
- Security deposit limit — Max 2 months rent (unfurnished)
- 21-day return — Landlord must return deposit within 21 days
- Habitable conditions — Landlord must maintain working heat, plumbing, etc.
- Just Cause eviction — Can't be evicted without valid reason (after 12 months)
- No retaliation — Landlord can't evict you for complaining
Read our complete tenant rights guide →
After You Sign
Move-In Checklist
- Take photos/video of EVERYTHING (for move-out disputes)
- Set up utilities (LADWP, gas, internet)
- Get renters insurance
- Change address (DMV, bank, subscriptions)
- Get copies of all keys
- Meet your neighbors
- Locate fire extinguisher and emergency exits
Monthly Budgeting
Beyond rent, budget for:
- Electricity: $50-150/month (more with A/C)
- Gas (if not included): $20-50/month
- Internet: $50-80/month
- Renters insurance: $15-25/month
- Parking (if separate): $100-300/month