How to Save Money on Rent
First things first - make sure that you're staying within the recommended budget for renting. Here's our free calculator to see if you're overpaying for rent. Now, let's get to Frich-approved ways to actually lower how much you pay for rent (without having to sacrifice on where you live).
Negotiate before signing (new or extended)
Rent is negotiable! There are a couple of levers you can pull:
1️⃣ Before signing anything, check similar units in your area / building. Make sure you're not paying more for the same.
Use this script:
Hi [Landlord’s Name], I’ve been looking at similar units in the area and noticed that apartments with comparable size and features are renting for a bit less - around [$X to $Y range] per month. I’m really interested in this space, and I’d love to make it work. Would you be open to discussing a rate closer to that range? I’m a responsible tenant, have steady income, and I’m ready to move quickly if we can align on price.”
Keep in mind:
- Use real listing (screenshots or links) to back up your claims
- Mention if you're flexible on move-in date or willing to sign a longer lease
2️⃣ Offer to sign a longer lease if they lower the price. Landlords prefer more certainty.
Use this script:
“Hi [Landlord’s Name], I really like the unit and can see myself staying here long-term. I wanted to ask — if I were to sign an [18-month / 2-year] lease instead of a standard 12-month, would you be open to lowering the monthly rent a bit? I know consistent tenancy is valuable, and I’d love to lock something in that works well for both of us.”
Keep in mind:
- If you know the unit has been sitting vacant, that’s leverage - landlords want stability
- Offer to set up autopay or prepay a portion
- Be ready with a number in mind (e.g. $75–$150 off/month) based on prices in the area
Get a FIFO roommate
If you don’t really want to have a roommate, but want to cut down rent costs, consider a FIFO (fly in, fly out) roommate. Think people working as construction workers, flight attendants, pilots etc, meaning you’ll have the place to yourself for most of the time. Here's where to find one:
- Facebook groups (duh!) - search for "crashpad [your city]", "flght attendant housing [your city]", "travel nurse housing [your city]" etc
- PadSplit - designed for short-term, flexible housing often used by people who travel for work. You can list your room there or search for existing listings that attract FIFO renters.
- Furnished Finder - another option!
Strategic roommate
Find a roommate that works really long hours. Think - a first year resident at the nearest hospital. They usually work 80h + weeks so they’ll rarely be home. Some more options could be:
- Chefs or kitchen staff at high-end restaurants - their shifts are typically afternoon through late night, and they work long hours on weekends. They’ll usually come home late and crash, leaving you with quiet mornings and early evenings to yourself.
- Grad students in demanding programs - PhD candidates, law students, and med students are usually on campus or at the library for long hours.
- Med professionals on night-shifts - ER nurses, overnight lab techs, or sleep study technicians. They work all night and sleep all day.
If you qualify: rent-controlled or income-based housing
In some cities (like NYC, SF, LA), rent-controlled apartments are protected by law from major increases. You can also look for income-based housing programs that cap rent at 30% of your monthly income. Search for:
“rent control apartments in [your city]” or “income based housing programs near me”
Negotiate amenities instead of rent
If you tried to negotiate your rent and your landlord refused, try to negotiate your amenities. That might be easier for your landlord to do & it still decreases the total fixed amount you spend on housing each month. Things like parking fees, water / trash / sewage, and laundry access are up for negotiation as well! Try this script:
“Hi [Landlord’s Name], I wanted to talk through a couple options that could help make the place a better financial fit for me. If the rent amount isn’t flexible, would you be open to covering some of the amenities like parking, Wi-Fi, or utilities instead. I’d love to move forward, and this would make a meaningful difference in my monthly budget while still keeping your rental income steady.”
Short term relief: look into house-sitting gigs (or apartment swaps)
House-sitting platforms often have people leaving town for weeks/months. They need someone to water plants, bring in mail, pet-sit, or just “exist” in the home - and in exchange, you stay rent-free. Here are some platforms you can check out:
- Trusted Housesitters - the largest global platform connecting sitters with homeowners. Especially great for pet lovers looking for free stays in exchange for care.
- Nomador - an international house-sitting site known for longer-term stays and a strong community vibe, ideal for digital nomads and slow travelers.
