Is It Cheaper to Live in an RV or an Apartment?

Comparing the costs of RV and apartment living is a common financial consideration. Both options involve complex financial implications beyond simple rent or purchase prices. A thorough comparison requires examining initial financial outlays, recurring monthly expenses, and other variable considerations to determine which option aligns best with individual financial goals.

Initial Financial Outlays

Beginning a new living situation, whether in an RV or an apartment, requires significant upfront capital. For RVs, purchase prices vary considerably by type, age, and condition. A new motorhome can cost around $150,000, while a used camper or small travel trailer might be acquired for about $15,000 to $40,000.

Beyond the purchase, initial costs include sales tax and registration fees. Necessary outfitting, such as sewer hoses, electrical adapters, leveling blocks, and basic kitchen and bedding supplies, also adds to the immediate expenditure. Initial RV insurance premiums typically range from $200 to $3,000 annually, depending on RV type, coverage, and usage.

Conversely, moving into an apartment often involves a security deposit, which often equals one to two months’ rent, plus potentially the first and last month’s rent upfront. The national average rent was $1,637 per month as of July 2025. Moving expenses can range from a few hundred dollars for self-moving with a rented truck to several thousand dollars for professional movers. Utility setup fees for services like electricity, water, gas, and internet are common. The cost of essential furniture or appliances, if not included in the rental, adds to initial expenses.

Recurring Monthly Expenses

Ongoing costs form the bulk of the financial commitment for both RV and apartment living, though their composition differs significantly. For RVs, a major recurring expense is RV park fees, which vary by location, amenities, and duration of stay. Daily rates can be as low as $25-$50, while monthly rates for full hookups (water, sewer, electricity) and amenities might range from $500 to $1,500.

Fuel costs are also substantial, especially for motorhomes or vehicles towing trailers, due to lower fuel efficiency. Propane for heating, cooking, and refrigeration typically costs $30-$60 per month. Dumping station fees, if not included in park fees, range from $5 to $20 per use. Ongoing RV insurance averages around $1,500 annually, but can be as low as $15-$50 for a travel trailer or $50-$200 for a motorhome. Internet and cell data are also primary utilities for RV dwellers, with costs varying widely based on usage and plan.

Apartment living involves monthly rent payments, which averaged $1,637 nationwide in July 2025. Utility costs, including electricity, gas, water, sewer, and trash collection, are significant recurring expenses. Basic utilities average approximately $253.14 monthly.

Water bills average about $49 monthly, and sewer adds around $67. Internet and cable services can add $42-$125 per month. Renter’s insurance typically costs $12 to $23 per month.

Other Financial Considerations

Beyond initial outlays and predictable monthly bills, various less obvious factors can influence the total cost of each lifestyle. RV ownership carries the risk of major, unexpected repair costs, such as engine issues, roof leaks, or appliance replacements, which can amount to thousands of dollars. RVs also experience significant depreciation; new RVs can lose 10% to 15% of their value in the first year alone, with a Class C vehicle depreciating by up to 38% after five years.

Seasonal expenses include winterization, which costs $50 to $300 for professional service, or less for a do-it-yourself approach with materials around $25. Storage fees, if the RV is not used year-round or stored off-site, can range from $50 to $500 per month depending on the type of storage (outdoor, covered, or indoor) and location. Vehicle registration and licensing fees also vary by RV type and state, typically decreasing as the vehicle ages.

For apartment dwellers, additional costs might include separate parking fees if not bundled with rent, which can vary significantly by urban area. Access to amenities like laundry facilities outside the unit or gym memberships can add to monthly expenses; gym memberships typically range from $10 to $100 per month. Transportation costs can be higher if the apartment’s location necessitates a longer commute or greater reliance on paid public transport, with monthly passes in major U.S. cities ranging from $50 to over $100. These variable expenditures highlight the importance of considering a comprehensive financial picture when comparing RV and apartment living.