Renting in a big city like New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles can feel like being stuck on a treadmill.
No matter how hard you work, you may never feel like you’re getting ahead. Rents are sky-high, wages don’t always keep up, and the cost of everything else, from groceries to public transit, is just as brutal.
But some renters are finding small ways to feel more in control. From adjusting how they spend money to thinking about moving, these six ideas could help.
1. Rethink What “Making It” Looks Like
In cities where rent alone can eat up half your income, the old version of success, owning a home, driving a nice car, and eating out without thinking twice, can feel out of reach.
But many people are redefining what it means to live well.
More people are stepping away from old ideas of success, like buying a home or owning a car. Instead, they’re focusing on flexibility, travel, and spending time with friends and family.
This shift in mindset isn’t about giving up, it’s about being realistic and building a life that still feels fulfilling even if it looks different than your parents’ version of success.
2. House Hack (Even If You’re Renting)
You don’t need to own a property to take advantage of house hacking.
Some renters are bringing in roommates, subletting a room for part of the year, or even listing their place while they’re out of town. It’s all about getting creative.
For example, some long-term renters in Brooklyn are offsetting rent by turning extra rooms into short-term rentals during peak tourism months.
Local laws vary, so be sure to check your city’s rules first.
But in some cases, even renting out a parking space can bring in a few hundred dollars a month.
3. Revisit What You’re Actually Paying For
When rents are high, it’s easy to assume the situation is hopeless. But renters can often negotiate lower rent, or at least better terms, if they come prepared.
Try negotiating at lease renewal time, especially if the rental has been on the market a while.
Offer to sign a longer lease or pay a few months in advance in exchange for a rent reduction. It’s not always a sure thing, but it’s worth asking.
4. Tap Into Remote Work and Location Flexibility
The rise of remote work changed the game for many city renters. If your job allows you to work from anywhere, even part-time, it might be time to consider moving somewhere more affordable.
A growing number of people are making that shift. In fact, 36% of fully remote workers (and 44% of hybrid workers) planned a move in 2023, compared with just 27% of those working entirely on-site, illustrating just how many are taking advantage of location flexibility.
This trend isn’t just about chasing lower rent, it’s also about quality of life. Many movers say they’re gaining access to bigger living spaces, more outdoor areas, and lower stress levels.
Cities like Tulsa, Kansas City, and Pittsburgh have attracted new residents with their mix of affordability and remote work readiness. Some towns even offer relocation incentives to attract skilled workers.
If you’re not ready to leave completely, consider a hybrid approach: split your time between the city and a cheaper location. Subletting your city apartment part-time might even help cover costs.
5. Build a Budget That Reflects Real Life
Plenty of budgeting advice assumes you’re living in a low-cost area. That’s not helpful if your rent is $2,800 and you don’t own a car.
Instead, make a budget based on your reality, not idealized versions from personal finance blogs. Look closely at what you’re really spending and earning, not what you wish you were.
Track your expenses for a month, including recurring bills and one-time costs like gifts, repairs, or medical bills.
You might find areas where you can cut back, or at least better plan for the unexpected
6. Consider a Bold Move—But on Your Own Terms
Moving out of an expensive city entirely isn’t the right move for everyone. But if you’re feeling trapped, it might be time to explore what life could look like somewhere else.
Before making a big move, visit the place first. Check out how much things cost, see what jobs are available, and make sure the internet is good if you work online.
You don’t have to commit long-term; just knowing you have choices can help.
Taking Back Control, One Step at a Time
Renting in an expensive city can feel suffocating, but you’re not powerless.
If you think differently, find new ways to use your space or earn money, or move to a cheaper place, things can feel less stressful.
Rent might stay high, but how you handle it can still improve.