If you’re wondering how old you have to be to rent an apartment, the short answer is: In most U.S. states, you must be at least 18 years old to legally sign a rental lease. However, there are exceptions based on state laws, emancipation status, and cosigner arrangements.
Rental age requirements for apartments
Age restrictions on renting apartments vary by state but generally align with one key legal principle: Minors cannot enter into legally binding contracts. In most states, that means you must be 18 or older to sign a lease. However, certain state-level exceptions may allow individuals under 18 to rent in specific circumstances.
State-by-state rental age table
| State | Minimum age without emancipation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | 18 | Emancipated minors allowed |
| Texas | 18 | Cosigner required if under 18 |
| New York | 18 | Rare exceptions possible |
Tip: Always check your state’s current laws or consult with a legal resource before signing a lease.
Exceptions to minimum rental age requirements
Some minors can legally rent an apartment through emancipation, which grants them adult legal rights. This can happen in a few ways:
- Joining the military (as young as 17)
- Getting married (some states allow this as early as 14 with consent)
- Obtaining a court order for emancipation
Once emancipated, minors can legally sign contracts, including rental leases.
Important: Even with emancipation, landlords may still have their own policies and risk concerns about renting to individuals under 18.
Emancipation is not something to be taken lightly; be sure to consult professional legal advice before pursuing it.
Other options for renting an apartment
If you’re not emancipated, another path is to rent with a cosigner or guarantor—typically a parent or legal guardian. This adult assumes financial responsibility for the lease, making it more likely for a landlord to approve the application.
This approach is common among college students under 18 renting off-campus housing.
What it takes to rent as a young person
To improve your chances of being approved:
- Show financial stability (proof of income or a cosigner with good credit)
- Provide references (e.g., from an employer or past landlord)
- Pass background and credit checks
Landlords typically look for renters whose monthly income is around three times the rent. Emancipated minors should be prepared to provide bank statements, pay stubs, or tax documents.
Optional: Offer a trial rental or shorter lease period to build trust with the property owner.
Choosing the right place
When apartment hunting:
- Prioritize safety and affordability over proximity to hotspots
- Avoid pet-friendly buildings if you’re on a tight budget
- Consider higher-floor units for savings (they’re often less expensive)
- Research neighborhood safety and amenities
Resources for young renters
Make sure to check your local and state regulations and laws before renting an apartment as a minor — these laws can vary from location to location.
Zumper makes finding and renting an apartment easier, even for first-timers. With tools like rental calculators, filtered search, and digital applications, Zumper helps streamline the process.
Need help getting started? Visit our rental guide hub or use our rent calculator to explore what you can afford.
FAQs
How old do you have to be to rent an apartment?
In most states, you need to be 18 or older to sign a lease. If you’re under 18, you’ll typically need a cosigner or emancipation status to rent.
Can a minor rent an apartment with parental consent?
Yes, in some cases. A minor may be able to rent with a parental cosigner, but approval depends on state laws and the landlord’s discretion.
Can someone under 18 rent without a cosigner?
Only if they are emancipated. Otherwise, most landlords will not approve a lease without an adult cosigner.
What documents are needed to rent?
You’ll typically need a government-issued ID, proof of income, a completed application, and may undergo a background and credit check.
Can a college student under 18 rent?
Yes, but they’ll likely need a cosigner or will need to rent through school-sponsored housing or student housing programs.
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