Grant’s direct answer
Not necessarily. Grant considers price important, but he does not believe the cheapest acceptable apartment automatically offers the best value for a recent graduate. A modest difference in rent can be worthwhile when it buys a substantially better neighborhood, stronger management, shorter commute, or more social building—and the renter can reasonably afford it. Those benefits can reduce driving, rideshare costs, isolation, and the effort required to build a new social network. HomeBase’s approach is to understand the complete housing cost and then judge the apartment by the quality of everyday life it provides, not simply by the lowest advertised rent.
Explore related apartment guides and city and neighborhood information. Rental prices, availability, office locations and incentives can change; confirm time-sensitive details before making a decision.
Put this answer into your apartment plan
Read the fuller guide
- What Should a New College Graduate Look for in a First Apartment? · Editorial source guide
Ready to use this advice?
Choose the step that fits where you are in your search.
Comparing apartment prices?
Put two written quotes side by side, including fees and free-rent credits.
Compare my apartment quotes →Free worksheet · no signupNeed a neighborhood shortlist?
Start with your city, budget, workplace and the lifestyle you want.
Start my guided apartment search →Ask Grant helps you narrow the choicesHave a specific question?
Send Grant the question you still need answered about your move.
Send Grant my question →Use the help form for a personal replyMoving soon? Calculate your upfront cash and monthly budget →