Rent, buy, move and settle in
Renting & Buying
Real 2026 costs for apartments, moving and setting up a home in the US, London and Dubai.
Whether you are signing your first lease, moving across the country or comparing rents abroad, these guides show what things really cost. Below them, you will find the essentials most renters buy in their first month, with typical prices.
Guides
Renting and Moving Guides
Shop the essentials
Bedroom and Everyday Essentials
The things most renters buy in the first few weeks, with typical 2026 US prices. Each button opens a matching search on Amazon so you can compare current options and reviews.
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Mattress in a box
Ships to your door and fits up narrow stairs. Look for at least a 100-night trial.
Shop on Amazon →Sheet and comforter set
A bed-in-a-bag set covers sheets, pillowcases and a comforter in one buy.
Shop on Amazon →Bath towel set
Cotton sets of 6 to 8 pieces. Pick a darker color if you share a bathroom.
Shop on Amazon →Dinnerware set for four
Plates, bowls and mugs in one box. Stoneware chips less than glass.
Shop on Amazon →Basic tool kit
Screwdrivers, hammer, tape measure, level and pliers for furniture assembly.
Shop on Amazon →Floor lamp
Most apartments lack overhead light in the living room. A floor lamp fixes that.
Shop on Amazon →Washable runner rug
Protects floors in the kitchen and entry, and goes in the washer.
Shop on Amazon →Moving boxes and tape
A moving kit with boxes, tape and bubble wrap saves trips to the store.
Shop on Amazon →In the kitchen
Kitchen Starter Kit
The basics that make a new kitchen usable from the first night.
Kitchen knife block set
A chef’s knife, paring knife and bread knife do most of the work.
Shop on Amazon →Dish drying rack
Essential if your apartment has no dishwasher. Look for a drainboard spout.
Shop on Amazon →Kitchen trash can with lid
A 13-gallon step can fits standard bags and keeps odors in.
Shop on Amazon →Bath and laundry
Bathroom and Laundry Basics
Small buys that make a rental bathroom and laundry routine easier.
Shower curtain and liner set
A fabric curtain plus a clear liner keeps water in and looks finished.
Shop on Amazon →Shower caddy
Rust-proof stainless or tension-pole caddies add storage without drilling.
Shop on Amazon →Velvet hangers (50-pack)
Slim hangers save closet space and stop clothes from slipping.
Shop on Amazon →Iron or garment steamer
A handheld steamer is faster for shirts, curtains and bedding.
Shop on Amazon →Living and storage
Living Room and Storage
Light, storage and a few finishing touches for a small space.
Full-length mirror
Makes small rooms feel larger and saves a trip to the bathroom mirror.
Shop on Amazon →Surge protector power strip
Older apartments rarely have enough outlets. Pick one with USB ports.
Shop on Amazon →Moving day
Moving Day Must-Haves
Rent or buy these before the truck arrives.
Bubble wrap and packing paper
Protects dishes, frames and electronics. Paper is easier to recycle.
Shop on Amazon →Furniture sliders and moving blankets
Slide heavy furniture without scratching floors; blankets protect corners.
Shop on Amazon →Prices are typical ranges and change often. Amazon links open search results; we are not paid for these links. See our affiliate disclosure.