Security Deposit Calculator
Enter your monthly rent and select a deposit amount to estimate your security deposit and total move-in costs. Deposit limits vary by state — this calculator provides general estimates to help you budget. Always verify the specific rules in your state and locality.
Legal notice: This calculator provides general estimates based on common ranges across the US. Actual rules vary by state and locality. Laws change frequently and local ordinances may differ from state law. Always check your lease and your state's specific law. This is not legal advice. Full disclaimer.
What is Security Deposit?
A security deposit is a sum of money paid by a tenant to a landlord at the start of a lease, held as financial protection against potential damages, unpaid rent, or lease violations. When the tenant moves out and leaves the property in good condition, the landlord returns the deposit — minus any legitimate deductions — within the timeframe set by state law. Security deposit limits vary significantly across the United States. The most common arrangements are: one month's rent (the strictest limit, used in several states), 1.5 to 2 months (a common middle ground), and up to 3 months or no statutory limit (in states that leave it to the market). Some states have different limits for furnished versus unfurnished units. Refund timelines also vary widely — from as few as 14 days to as many as 60 days after the tenant moves out, depending on the jurisdiction. Many jurisdictions expect landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions along with any partial refund. Late return of the deposit may have consequences depending on local rules. Landlords may generally deduct from the security deposit for items such as: unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning costs to restore the unit to its move-in condition. Normal wear and tear — such as faded paint, minor scuffs, worn carpet from regular use, or small nail holes — is typically not considered a valid deduction. The distinction between damage and wear-and-tear is one of the most common landlord-tenant disputes. Rules vary by jurisdiction. When budgeting for a new apartment, plan for total move-in costs that include: first month's rent, security deposit, and sometimes last month's rent or a broker's fee. In total, expect to need 2 to 4 months of rent available as upfront cash, depending on your market and state.
How to Calculate
- Enter your monthly rent amount
- Select the deposit amount in months (1 month is the most common limit in states with caps)
- Note whether the unit is furnished (some states allow higher deposits for furnished units)
- Review the estimated deposit, total move-in cost, and typical range
- Check your specific state's law for the actual deposit limit and refund timeline — rules vary significantly
Formula
Estimated Security Deposit = Monthly Rent × Number of Months Total Move-In Cost = Security Deposit + First Month's Rent Typical Range: Most state limits fall between 1 and 3 months of rent. The most common caps are 1 month (strictest states), 1.5 months, 2 months, and 3 months. Some states have no statutory limit. Note: This calculator provides estimates based on common deposit ranges. Actual limits are set by individual state law and may also be affected by local ordinances, property type, lease duration, and whether the unit is furnished. Always verify with your state's tenant rights resources.
Example Calculation
For an unfurnished apartment at $1,500/month with a 1-month deposit: Estimated Deposit = $1,500 × 1 = $1,500 Total Move-In Cost = $1,500 + $1,500 = $3,000 If the state allows 2 months: Estimated Deposit = $1,500 × 2 = $3,000 Total Move-In Cost = $3,000 + $1,500 = $4,500 Budget for the higher end of the range if you are unsure of your state's limit. Many landlords charge the maximum allowed by law.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a typical security deposit?
The most common amount is one month's rent, which is a common limit in many jurisdictions. Other areas allow up to 1.5, 2, or even 3 months' rent. Some jurisdictions have no statutory cap, meaning the amount may be determined by the market and lease terms. Check your local rules for the limit that applies to you.
What can my landlord deduct from my security deposit?
Common deductions include: unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear (holes in walls, broken fixtures, significant stains), and cleaning costs if the unit was left dirtier than at move-in. Normal wear and tear — faded paint, minor scuffs, worn carpet from regular use, or small nail holes — is typically not considered a valid deduction. The specific rules vary by jurisdiction.
How long does my landlord have to return my deposit?
Refund timelines vary by state, ranging from approximately 14 days to 60 days after move-out. Many states require landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions along with any partial refund. If you believe your deposit was not returned properly, consider contacting a local tenant rights organization or consulting an attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Does my landlord have to pay interest on my security deposit?
In some jurisdictions, landlords may be expected to hold deposits in interest-bearing accounts and pay the accrued interest to the tenant. However, this is not the case everywhere. Check your local rules to determine if this applies to your situation.
Is the deposit limit different for furnished apartments?
In some states, yes — furnished units may have a higher deposit limit than unfurnished units. However, many states apply the same limit regardless of furnishing. This is one of the details that varies by jurisdiction, so check your state's specific rules.
Should I document the apartment condition at move-in?
Absolutely. Take dated photos and videos of every room, including close-ups of any existing damage (scuffs, stains, scratches, appliance condition). Send a copy to your landlord in writing. This documentation protects you against unfair deductions when you move out. Many states require or encourage landlords to provide a move-in condition checklist — request one if it is not provided.