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Training & Resources

Moving out: What to think about (and budget for)

Young people

Living independently for the first time is a big step. Here’s what you need to put in your budget to have a seamless transition.

Initial costs and monthly rent

Most letting agreements require a deposit of at least one month’s rent upfront. You’ll also usually need to show proof of employment or have a UK-based guarantor (a parent or another adult who agrees to cover the rent if you can’t).

When you rent, you’ll either be interacting with a private landlord or a letting agency. Try to research on them before signing anything:

When you give them your deposit, make sure you are paying through is placed in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.

Furnished or unfurnished?

A furnished flat is often the more practical choice when you’re starting out. However, furnished flats tend to be less flexible: you can’t swap things out if you don’t like the furniture, and your landlord may be less likely to allow pets.

Going unfurnished gives you more control over your space, but you’ll need to budget for furniture on top of everything else. You can keep costs down by shopping at places like IKEA and charity shops.

If you need to hire a moving service or van, include this in your budget for moving out.

Council tax and other bills

Council tax pays for your Scottish Water bill and other services. The amount o you’ll pay depends on the council tax band of your property and your local authority, so you can check this before renting and factor it into your monthly budget. Full-time students are exempt from paying council tax.

Council tax and other bills are often set up as direct debits, so the money is automatically taken from your account each month.

You’ll also need pay for your energy supply and WiFi.

Insurance

You may want to get contents insurance, which would cover your belongings (e.g. electronics) if they’re ever stolen or damaged.

This is especially relevant if you’re living in an unfurnished flat. If something happens outside your control, like a flood or a break-in, your furniture and possessions won’t automatically be covered by your landlord’s insurance.

Everyday life and emergencies

In addition to these monthly costs, consider how much you’ll need each month for:

  • Shopping for food and other household items
  • Transport: Where will you need to go, and how will you get there?
  • Savings: How much do you want to put aside each month? Is this for a car, a holiday, or something else?
  • What ‘extras’ do you need in your life? Gym memberships, subscriptions, going out for a coffee or a drink now and then.

If you’re living with someone else, you’ll want to discuss how you’re splitting shared expenses.

Further reading: