In the United States, the typical minimum age to rent an apartment is 18 years old, as this is the age of majority when a person is legally considered an adult and can enter into binding contracts such as a lease agreement
. However, there are exceptions depending on the state:
- In Alabama and Nebraska, the minimum age is 19.
- In Mississippi, it is 21
Renting below the age of majority is generally difficult because leases signed by minors are not legally binding. However, minors aged 16 or 17 can sometimes rent an apartment under special circumstances such as emancipation, marriage, military service, or with parental consent and a co-signer
. Landlords may also allow younger tenants but face legal risks if the tenant fails to meet lease obligations
. Additionally, even if a minor is allowed to rent, utility companies usually require tenants to be at least 18 to set up accounts for essential services like electricity and water
. In summary:
- Standard minimum age to rent: 18 years old in most states.
- Exceptions: Some states require 19 or 21.
- Under 18: Possible with emancipation, co-signers, or special permission but legally complex.
- Utilities require tenants to be 18+.
This means most people need to be at least 18 to rent an apartment independently, though there are legal pathways for younger individuals under specific conditions
