Sometimes you just need a temporary home, and signing a 12-month lease is not the solution. Whatever the case may be, whether you’re relocating for work, you’re traveling for a while, or you’re in between longer leases, you need a short-term apartment.
But how do you find one? If you’re unsure of where to start, our guide will walk you through exactly how to find a short-term apartment, including where to look, what to expect, and how to avoid common pitfalls along the way.
What is a short-term apartment?
A short-term apartment is an apartment that you rent for fewer than a year. A short-term lease can range from one month to six months, sometimes longer, and often comes furnished. Short-term rentals can cost more per month, on average, than long-term leases in exchange for the flexibility they offer.
How to find short-term apartments
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you find the right short-term rental.
1. Set a clear budget
When setting your budget, err on the higher end of your expectations. Short-term rentals usually cost more per month than they would if you signed a yearly lease. For example, a one-bedroom that rents for $1,500/month on a 12-month lease might cost $1,800–$2,200/month as a short-term rental. So when considering how much you can afford, be sure to adjust your budget for:
- Higher rent prices (potentially)
- Utilities, in case the apartment is not utilities-included
- The cost of furniture, if the apartment is unfurnished
- Application or cleaning fees
We know budgeting for an apartment can be tough, but Zumper’s rent calculator can help you get a personalized rental budget based on your monthly income and expenses.
2. Filter by lease length and availability
Some apartment search websites have filters and search tools that make finding a short-term rental much easier:
- Filter by lease term: If available, the listing will include language like “short-term,” “monthly,” or “flexible lease.”
- Filter by move-in date: Many short-term units are available on a rolling or immediate basis.
- Expand your location radius on the map: Expand your search radius slightly to uncover more flexible listings.
3. Decide whether you want furnished or unfurnished
If you’re looking to rent for less than 3 to 4 months, or you only have only a few belongings to move, a furnished unit might be a great option for you. These apartments often come with living room and bedroom furnishings, kitchen essentials, and sometimes linens or Wi-Fi. However, keep in mind that because they come move-in ready, they can be listed at a higher price point.
4. Prioritize key amenities
You should still feel at home in your short-term stay, so decide which amenities or apartment features are most critical to your comfort. A few examples:
- In-unit laundry
- High-speed internet
- Pet-friendly policies
- Fitness center, or designated office or desk space
- How far is it from public transit, or is it in a walkable neighborhood
5. Read the listing carefully before contacting the host
Once you find a promising short-term apartment, there are a few key steps to take to make sure it’s a good fit for your needs:
- Request a video tour or additional photos
- Confirm all lease terms in writing (especially end date, deposits, and fees)
- Ask who pays for utilities, Wi-Fi, or cleaning
- Clarify cancellation or extension options
Never send money before seeing a signed agreement or lease.
Best platforms to find short-term apartments
Not all apartment rental websites are optimized for short-term stays. These platforms specialize in flexible lease terms, furnished rentals, and move-in-ready apartments—making them ideal for temporary housing.
1. Blueground
Blueground is a go-to option for short-term, fully furnished apartments in 65+ US cities and international destinations. They offer flexible lease lengths, starting at just 30 days, and each unit includes furniture, kitchen essentials, Wi-Fi, and utilities—making it a practical choice for relocating professionals, digital nomads, or anyone in need of flexible, ready-to-live-in housing.
2. Bungalow
Bungalow is a flexible leasing platform, specializing in room rentals in shared homes in many major US cities. It’s a good option for renters seeking a furnished private bedroom with shared common spaces, utilities included, and a built-in community.
3. Landing
Landing offers a network of fully furnished apartments available on flexible terms—no long leases required. Members can easily move between cities, and all units come with high-speed Wi-Fi, furniture, and utilities.
4. Corporate housing providers
There are numerous agencies, like National Corporate Housing or Synergy Global Housing, that offer fully furnished rentals tailored to people who are relocating for work and need a place to stay while they find a more permanent home. These apartments often include high-end amenities and cleaning services, and are typically located in a city’s downtown or near its major business hub. They’re a good option for corporate relocations or extended business trips, especially if they have a relationship with the company you work for already.
5. Airbnb
Airbnb can be a convenient option for short-term or month-to-month stays, especially in cities where traditional short-term rentals are harder to find. Some hosts may be willing to offer you a discounted price for a stay lasting more than 28 days. However, many major cities are updating their Airbnb laws and regulations, so be sure to check that your stay complies before booking.
Be aware of local rules and lease terms
In some cities (like New York or San Francisco), short-term rentals under 30 days may be illegal unless the host is present. Always:
- Review local laws
- Read the whole lease or rental agreement
- Ask for written proof that the rental complies with city regulations
Avoiding scams when renting short-term
We want to make sure you have the best rental experience possible. Here are a few tips to help you avoid scams or issues with your short-term apartment:
- Never pay via wire transfer or cash apps before seeing a unit
- Look for listings on verified platforms like Zumper or Blueground
- Always sign a lease or agreement
- Research reviews on the building or host, if available
Final Thoughts: How to find a short-term apartment that works for you
Start with a clear budget, one that’s a little higher than you might initially anticipate. Use a reliable search platform, like Bungalow, Airbnb, or Zumper, and filter for flexible lease options. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, consider expanding your radius or weighing the trade-offs between amenities and price. Make sure to read each listing—and lease!—carefully.
Whether you need a place for 1 month or 6, short-term rentals offer the flexibility to live on your own terms—without locking into a year-long lease.
Happy hunting!
FAQ: short-term apartment rentals
What qualifies as a short-term rental?
A lease typically lasts under 12 months, ranging from 1 to 6 months.
Are short-term rentals more expensive?
Yes, monthly rates are usually higher than long-term leases due to the added flexibility and turnover.
Can I find furnished short-term apartments?
Yes, many platforms let you filter specifically for furnished units.
Is it legal to sublet a short-term rental?
It depends on your location and the original lease terms. Always verify that subletting is allowed.
How far in advance should I book?
For high-demand cities, book at least 4–6 weeks ahead. For smaller towns, 2–4 weeks may be sufficient.
Related content
