Living alone in the U.S. According to a new Zillow Rentals analysis, the “singles tax”—the additional amount single renters pay for a one-bedroom apartment compared to sharing rent with roommates or partners—has surged to a record $7,562.
The price of independence rises as the “singles tax” exceeds $7,500
While some may call it the price of peace and quiet, it’s also equivalent to more than 1,300 lattes or over 12 years of subscriptions to some top-tier dating apps.
“The singles tax increased by more than $450 compared to last year, reflecting the overall trend of rising rents. Nationally, couples or roommates sharing a one-bedroom apartment save a combined $15,123 per year, showing that love (or at least a roommate) can be financially rewarding,” says the real estate report.
The Rising Singles Tax in the United States
New York City once again ranked first in terms of the highest singles tax. With a staggering annual premium of $20,100 for single renters, according to StreetEasy, Zillow’s brand in New York City.
New York City has consistently maintained the highest singles tax, proving that independence comes with an especially steep price in the Big Apple.
While the top five cities remain virtually unchanged from last year, Boston made a notable climb, moving from 5th place in 2024 to 4th in 2025, surpassing Washington, D.C. This shift highlights Boston’s growing affordability challenges for renters. Boston’s rental market remains one of the most expensive in the U.S., with a typical rent price of $3,002 as of December 2024, roughly 53% higher than the national rent price.
“Living alone means having total control over your space.
Renters can decorate exactly how they want, play their favorite music on repeat, and never compromise on the thermostat temperature,” said Emily McDonald, Zillow’s rental trends expert. “But the financial reality of renting alone is something every renter should consider. Understanding the full cost of living alone can help renters decide if it’s the right choice for their lifestyle and budget.”
To support informed decision-making, Zillow’s rent affordability calculator provides insights into housing budgets, making it easier to understand what’s within reach. With automated tour scheduling, renters can book visits instantly without the hassle of back-and-forth coordination, giving them more time to focus on their search.
Image: DiarioNY
