The first step is often the hardest, especially when it comes to finding a temporary place to live when moving.
It doesn’t matter if you’re relocating for a new job or simply seeking a fresh start; it is compulsory to secure short-term housing for a smooth transition.
Studies show that 30% of people look for temporary housing options during their transition.
This means the need for short-term housing is growing, especially as people seek flexibility due to the increasing popularity of remote work and shorter job contracts.
While the demand for short-term housing is high, finding the right place that fits your budget, needs, and timeframe can be overwhelming.
Many people struggle with rising costs and the complexity of checking different platforms and types of accommodations.
In fact, research from Airbnb shows that 60% of people in the U.S. who relocate for work turn to short-term rentals, but only 50% are satisfied with the process.
With a little guidance, you can identify the best options, whether you need a furnished apartment for rent, corporate housing for moving, or a family-friendly spot.
In this blog, we’ll discuss everything to make your search easier.
What is Short-Term Housing?
Before getting into how to find short-term housing, let’s first define what it means.
Short-term housing refers to rental accommodations that last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
It's perfect for those who need a temporary place to live while looking for something more permanent or while undergoing relocation.
This kind of housing is flexible, often fully furnished, and usually includes utilities like internet and electricity, which can be a major convenience when you’re in the middle of a move.
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Why Should You Consider Short-Term Housing When Moving?
When moving to a new city or town, the last thing you want to do is rush into a long-term lease only to find out that the neighborhood isn't right for you or that your new job requires you to relocate again in six months.
Here are a few reasons why going for short-term housing when moving can help you a lot:
Flexibility: You’re not locked into a long-term commitment.
Convenience: There is no need to move furniture or set up utilities, as many options come fully furnished with services included.
Explore the Area: Living in temporary housing allows you to get a feel for the neighborhood before you commit to a permanent home.
Types of Short-Term Housing for Relocation
You can explore several types of short-term housing, depending on your needs, budget, and location.
Let’s go over the most common ones:
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Short-Term Rentals
One of the most popular options is short-term rentals, which are typically apartments or houses available for lease on a month-to-month basis.
They offer the comforts of a home, such as a kitchen, living room, and sometimes even a private garden. This option is perfect for people who need a bit more space than a hotel room can offer.
The beauty of short-term rentals is the level of flexibility they provide in terms of lease length and rental agreements.
Furnished Apartments for Rent
If you’re moving and don’t want the hassle of moving furniture or buying new items, then furnished apartments for rent might be your best option.
These apartments come fully furnished, which saves you the cost of furniture while providing a comfortable living space.
Platforms like Furnished Finder and Craigslist can be great resources for finding fully furnished rentals.
Temporary Housing Solutions
Temporary housing solutions are the best option for those moving for work or business.
These accommodations are designed for people on temporary work assignments or relocation projects.
Corporate housing companies provide fully furnished apartments that include utilities and sometimes even cleaning services.
These rentals are of high quality and offer comfort and convenience.
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Extended Stay Hotels
Extended-stay hotels are a great choice if you're looking for a no-hassle option that includes services like cleaning, room service, and often even meals.
Temporary housing options like extended-stay hotels are ideal for those who will be in town only for a few weeks or a couple of months.
Some well-known chains that offer extended stays include Marriott, Hilton, and Residence Inn. These chains offer long-term hotel room rentals and provide kitchenettes, living areas, and much more.
Short-Term Housing for Families
When you’re moving with your family, finding suitable short-term housing for families is key.
You need to check that the accommodation is spacious, safe, and located in a family-friendly neighborhood.
Look for places with amenities like parks, good schools nearby, and other family-friendly services.
Short-Term Housing for Professionals
relocation services
These rentals are found in prime locations close to business districts or transport hubs.
For example, if you’re moving for work, many relocation services specialize in providing corporate apartments to accommodate professionals.
Where to Look for Short-Term Housing Near Me
One of the most common questions when searching for short-term housing is, "Where can I find options near me?"
Here are a few places to start your search:
Online Rental Platforms: Websites like Apartments.com, Zillow, and Rent.com offer a wealth of listings for short-term rentals in your area.
Airbnb and VRBO: These platforms are great for finding short-term rentals, which can range from private rooms to full homes.
Corporate Housing Services: If you’re moving for a job or need more formal housing, consider using services like CorporateHousing.com.
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Tips for Finding Affordable Temporary Housing
When searching for affordable temporary housing, keep these tips in mind to find the best deals:
Book Early: Start your search at least a few weeks in advance to lock in better prices and availability.
Check Location: Sometimes, renting a place slightly outside the city center can offer substantial savings without sacrificing convenience.
Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with landlords, especially if you’re staying for several months. They may offer you a better rate.
What to Look for in Short-Term Housing
When evaluating potential short-term housing options, it’s important to consider the following:
Proximity: Always check it’s close to your work, schools (if you have children), or other essential services.
Cost: Compare pricing and look for hidden fees, such as cleaning fees or extra charges for utilities.
Amenities: Check for internet, parking spaces, air conditioning, and other amenities you may need during your stay.
Reviews: Always read reviews or ask for references to gauge the quality of the property and the landlord’s reliability.
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How Much Does It Cost to Find Short-Term Housing?
When it comes to moving, one of the biggest factors to consider is the cost of short-term housing.
It’s important to understand that the price of temporary housing depends on multiple factors, including the type of accommodation, location, length of stay, and the facilities included.
Let’s break it down so you get a complete picture of what your short-term housing might cost.
Base Rent Costs for Short-Term Housing
The first and most obvious cost is the rent itself.
In urban areas, especially in cities like New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, rents tend to be on the higher end.
Suburban areas, or smaller towns, usually offer more affordable options.
| Type of Accommodation | Average Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Short-Term Rental (Apartment) | $1,200 - $3,000 |
| Extended Stay Hotel | $1,500 - $3,500 |
| Corporate Housing | $2,000 - $4,500 |
| Furnished Apartment | $1,500 - $3,500 |
Note: These prices can fluctuate depending on the location, amenities, and size of the property.
Additional Costs You Need to Consider
Now, let’s break down some of the additional costs that can come with short-term housing.
Utilities
In many cases, the rent for short-term housing will include utilities, such as water, electricity, and sometimes internet.
However, this isn’t always the case.
You may need to pay extra for utilities, especially in short-term rentals or extended-stay hotels.
| Utility Type | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $50 - $150 |
| Water | $30 - $75 |
| Internet | $40 - $100 |
| Gas | $30 - $80 |
Note: Some rentals may include utilities in the monthly rent, so always check before signing.
Cleaning Fees
One often-overlooked cost is cleaning fees, which are commonly charged in short-term housing agreements, especially for Airbnb or vacation rentals.
| Cleaning Fee | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Airbnb/Short-Term Rental | $50 - $150 |
| Extended Stay Hotel | $100 - $300 |
| Corporate Housing | $100 - $200 |
Security Deposit
For most short-term housing leases, landlords will require a security deposit, which serves as insurance in case of damage to the property.
| Deposit Type | Average Amount |
|---|---|
| Short-Term Rental | $500 - $2,000 |
| Extended Stay Hotel | $100 - $500 |
| Corporate Housing | $1,000 - $3,000 |
Pet Fees
If you're moving with pets, you’ll likely need to pay additional pet fees or deposits.
These fees are typically non-refundable.
| Pet Fee | Average Amount |
|---|---|
| Deposit | $200 - $500 |
| Monthly Fee | $25 - $75 |
Total Cost Breakdown
Here are some example scenarios to get a clearer picture of the total cost involved in short-term housing.
Scenario 1: Renting a Short-Term Apartment (1 Month)
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base Rent | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $100 |
| Cleaning Fee | $75 |
| Security Deposit | $1,500 |
| Total Cost | $3,475 |
Scenario 2: Extended Stay Hotel (2 Weeks)
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base Rent | $2,000 |
| Utilities | Included |
| Cleaning Fee | $200 |
| Security Deposit | $200 |
| Pet Fee | $150 |
| Total Cost | $2,550 |
Scenario 3: Corporate Housing (1 Month)
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base Rent | $2,500 |
| Utilities | $150 |
| Cleaning Fee | $100 |
| Security Deposit | $2,000 |
| Pet Fee | $300 |
| Total Cost | $5,050 |
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