How to Avoid Unwanted Surprise Moving Fees? Be Ready!
A new bill, passed by the Illinois House in April 2025 prevents landlords from charging new tenants a “move in” fee.
This got us thinking about all the other potential “hidden” charges our clients have uncovered when moving into a new apartment.
Here’s a comprehensive list of hidden costs when moving to a new apartment – the 2025 edition!
Moving to a New Apartment? Here’s What to Expect…
Moving to a new apartment is an exciting step—new surroundings, fresh opportunities, maybe even better amenities. But along with the excitement comes a long list of potential added expenses that many people overlook. If you’re planning a move, knowing what to expect financially can save you from unpleasant surprises.
Good Move Movers, like you, hate unexpected additional costs! That’s why we’re publishing this helpful article… A breakdown of all the potential added costs you might face when moving to a new apartment.
UPFRONT RENTAL COSTS
Security Deposit: $$$ Up to First + Last Month’s Rent
Most landlords require a security deposit, typically equal to one month’s rent. This is refundable, but only if there’s no damage to the unit and the lease terms are honored.
It’s common for landlords to ask for both the first and last month’s rent upfront. This can be a significant financial burden, especially in high-rent areas. In this case, budget for the equivalent of 3 MONTHS’ RENT for your first month’s apartment rental.
Holding Fees: Vary
Some apartments require a holding fee to take the unit off the market while your application is processed. This fee may or may not go toward your rent.
Application Fees: $20 – $200+
Landlords or property managers often charge non-refundable application fees to cover background and credit checks. These can range from $20 to $100 or more.
UPDATE APRIL 11, 2025: Illinois House Bill 3564 would cap application fees at $20 and late payment fees at 1% of the total rent… more information from
Move In Fee: $$$ Equal to One Month’s Rent
AS OF APRIL 8, 2025 Illinois House passes bill banning move-in fees for renters!
If you’d like to read it, here is the complete version of House Bill 3564 which amends the Landlords and Tenants Act to prevent landlords from charging “for the processing, reviewing, or accepting of an application, or demand any other payment, fee, or charge before or at the beginning of the tenancy.”
The law does not affect security deposits but does restrict landlords from performing a credit check on potential renters.
CLEANING AND REPAIRS (OLD AND NEW PLACE)
Cleaning Fees: $150 – $200
You might have to hire professional cleaners to meet your old lease’s standards—or clean your new place before moving in.
Damage Repairs
If there’s wear and tear at your old apartment beyond normal use, expect deductions from your security deposit or repair bills.
MOVING EXPENSES
Professional Movers: $300 – $2,000+
Hiring movers can cost anywhere from $300 to over $2,000 depending on distance, time, and the amount of stuff you have.
It’s worth noting that Good Move Movers provide transparent and extremely affordable moving quotes online for free! It takes less than one minute to request an estimate – with NO hidden fees!
Good Move Movers would be pleased to provide you with a fair, transparent and FREE MOVING QUOTE now!
Insurance for Moving – included with Good Move Movers!
If you’re transporting valuable items, you can have the option of purchasing additional moving insurance to protect against loss or damage, but with Good Move Movers, you can rest assured that your belongings are safe as we are fully licensed and insured!
DIY Moving Costs: Rental, gas, consumables $$$
Even if you move yourself, you might need to rent a truck, buy gas, and bribe friends with pizza. Factor in the cost of boxes, tape, dollies, and other supplies.
Hotel: $129/night (current national avg.)
If you can’t secure your perfect moving day and need to stay in a hotel for a night or two, it may help to know that the average cost for a nightly stay in an average hotel is currently $129/night.
SETTING UP UTILITIES AND SERVICES
Utility Deposits: $200 Deposit per Utility
Some utility companies require deposits if you don’t have a strong payment history or if it’s your first time setting up service.
Internet and TV Installation: $200-$300/month
Setting up cable, internet, electricity, water, or gas can come with installation or activation fees.
Transfer Fees
You may need to pay to transfer existing utility accounts to your new address.
Renters’ Insurance: $200/year
But you’ll definitely want to shop around to get the best deal!
FURNISHINGS AND HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
You’re not likely to move into a space that will fit your belongings exactly as you had them arranged in a previous apartment. This is a good reason to set some money aside for purchasing new items to make your new apartment more comfortable. Consider things like:
New Furniture
Your current furniture may not fit or suit the new space, prompting new purchases.
Appliances
Some apartments don’t include appliances like a microwave, washer, or dryer. You might need to buy or rent these.
Household Essentials
Things like shower curtains, trash cans, cleaning supplies, and storage bins add up quickly when starting fresh!
PARKING AND TRANSPORTATION
Parking Fees: $100/month (average)
If the apartment doesn’t include parking, you may have to rent a spot or pay for a city parking permit.
Commute Changes
A longer or more complicated commute could mean higher gas, public transportation, or rideshare costs.
RENTERS INSURANCE: $10 TO $30 A MONTH
Most landlords require renter’s insurance, which can range from $10 to $30 a month depending on coverage. It protects your belongings and provides liability coverage.
PET FEES (IF APPLICABLE)
Pet Deposit or Fee: $200 – $500
A non-refundable pet fee or refundable pet deposit is common.
Monthly Pet Rent: $10 – $100/month
Some properties charge extra each month per pet.
Pet Boarding: $25 – $45/night
If it would help to get your pet out of the way while moving, look to a trusted friend, family member or neighbor to save on this potential additional cost. Pet boarding isn’t free!
HOA OR AMENITY FEES: $200 – $300/MONTH (AVG.)
In some buildings, especially condos or newer apartments, you may face HOA dues or amenity fees for using the gym, pool, or other community features.
STORAGE FEES
If there’s a delay between moving out and moving in—or if your new place is smaller—you may need to rent a storage unit temporarily. It may be helpful to know that the current 2025 national average for storage is:
$120/MONTH FOR 10’X10’ UNIT
FINAL THOUGHTS ON HIDDEN MOVING FEES
Budgeting for rent is just the beginning when planning a move to your new apartment. By factoring in these added costs early, Good Move Movers hopes that you’ll be better prepared to handle the financial side of your transition smoothly – and avoid any unwanted surprises!
It might not be the most fun part of moving but knowing what to expect helps you make smart decisions and avoid stress down the road!
Get A Free Moving Quote Today
If you’re ready to make a move to a new apartment, Good Move Movers would love to help! We have a live moving expert standing by right now – so if it would help to speak with us, please call 630-283-1930.
OR
Request your fast FREE MOVING QUOTE right now! It can be done online in less than a minute!