Traditional rentals no longer work for many people. High credit score minimums, steep move-in deposits, and year-long lease commitments often create more barriers than solutions, especially for renters who need housing quickly or are in a period of transition. As of April 2025, the average rent across the U.S. is $1,628 per month, which can be significantly higher in major cities, like Boston and L.A.
At the same time, incomes haven’t kept up. More than half of U.S. renters are considered “cost-burdened,” meaning they spend over 30% of their income on housing, leaving less room for essentials, savings, or future goals.
Enter PadSplit: a flexible housing model designed for today’s realities. Whether you’re starting over, relocating for a job, or simply looking for a more practical way to live, here’s how PadSplit compares to traditional renting, and why it might be the housing solution that finally works for you.
Low move-in costs
Traditional apartment rentals typically require thousands of dollars upfront. Between first and last month’s rent, a security deposit, utility setup fees, and sometimes broker charges, renters can easily spend $4,000 to $6,000 just to get their keys. That’s before you even begin furnishing your space or purchasing household essentials.
PadSplit offers a more affordable, transparent path to move in. Most members get started for under $300 total. That includes a one-time move-in fee, which varies depending on the room but is typically around $100. You’ll also pay your first week’s dues before moving in, and a $19 application fee. If you aren’t approved, that application fee is refunded, so there’s no risk to applying. There are no security deposits, no furniture purchases needed, and no separate utility accounts to set up. Every PadSplit room comes fully furnished and ready to go.
For members who need even more flexibility, PadSplit offers ways to align your payment schedule to your paycheck, or even pay biweekly if that better matches your income cycle.
One flat rate, no surprises
With traditional renting, rent is just the beginning. Most renters also pay separate bills for electricity, water, internet, and sometimes garbage collection or renters’ insurance. These added costs often push the total monthly housing expense far beyond the advertised rent amount.
PadSplit simplifies everything. The weekly rate you pay covers your private, lockable room, all utilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, and access to shared amenities like laundry and kitchen areas. That means fewer bills to track and more predictable housing costs. Many members save hundreds each month simply by switching to PadSplit. In fact, the average PadSplit member saves around $366 per month compared to renting a one-bedroom apartment. That’s money that can go toward reducing debt, building credit, or creating financial breathing room.
Housing that adapts to you
Life doesn’t always follow a 12-month plan, but traditional leases often expect you to. Signing an apartment lease means committing to a full year in one place, and if you need to leave early, you may face fees, penalties, or even damage to your rental history.
PadSplit takes a more flexible approach. The standard membership includes a 12-week minimum stay, after which members continue on a week-to-week basis. That means you can stay as long as you want, or leave when it makes sense for your goals. If you need even more freedom, PadSplit offers an optional Flexibility Upgrade, which allows you to move out at any time with no minimum stay.
This flexibility is ideal for people who are changing jobs, starting over, or testing out a new city. Many members use PadSplit as a stepping stone, building stability, improving finances, and moving forward without being locked into something that no longer works for them.
👉 Learn more about commitment options at PadSplit.
Move-in ready rentals
Traditional apartment hunting can take weeks or even months. Between searching listings, filling out applications, waiting for approvals, scheduling move-in dates, and coordinating utility services and furniture delivery, the process is rarely fast, especially if you’re in urgent need of housing.
PadSplit moves faster. Once approved, many members are able to move in within 24 to 48 hours. Rooms are fully furnished and move-in ready. That means no shopping for a mattress, no waiting for Wi-Fi to be installed, and no juggling service providers. You can arrive, unpack, and start settling in the same day.
This speed has made PadSplit a valuable option for people starting new jobs, relocating quickly, or exiting situations where time is critical.
A more accessible approach
Most traditional landlords require a credit score of 650 or higher, income equal to two or three times the monthly rent, and spotless rental histories. That leaves many renters, especially those who are self-employed, between jobs, or rebuilding credit, without good options.
PadSplit uses a more flexible vetting process. There’s no minimum credit score required. Instead, applications are reviewed based on your current ability to pay, along with a background screening where available. Many people who are excluded from traditional rentals due to their financial history are able to qualify for PadSplit and start fresh.
Members include students, essential workers, retirees, gig workers, and others who simply need a more accessible, realistic housing option.
👉 Learn more about the approval criteria for PadSplit Membership.
Get rewarded for paying rent
One of the most powerful benefits of PadSplit is the ability to build your credit by paying rent on time. While most traditional landlords don’t report rent payments to credit bureaus, PadSplit does. Through its partnership with Esusu, PadSplit allows members to opt in to credit reporting, which helps improve credit scores over time.
In fact, many members who use this feature see their credit scores increase by an average of 50 to 100 points, just by paying weekly dues as scheduled. That kind of progress can open doors to better financial products, future housing, and more opportunities.
Less hassle, more support
Traditional apartment renters are often responsible for setting up utilities, coordinating repairs, and chasing down landlords for maintenance. That can mean long wait times, miscommunications, and added stress, especially in older buildings or under-managed properties.
PadSplit offers a more streamlined experience. Maintenance issues are reported directly through the platform, and property managers or hosts are responsible for handling them. Many homes are stocked with essential cleaning tools and supplies, making upkeep a shared responsibility without the usual burden. You can even use the chores tracker in the PadSplit app to encourage accountability.
This hands-off, supportive model is especially helpful for busy professionals, students, or anyone who prefers not to manage the details of housing on their own.
What PadSplit members are saying
Since its launch, PadSplit has housed over 51,500 people across 30+ U.S. cities and more than 20,000 rooms. Members span all walks of life, and the platform has made a measurable difference for many.
According to recent data, 54% of PadSplit members report improved job stability after moving in, and 50% report they’ve paid off debt during their stay.
PadSplit is currently available in major metro areas like Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Charlotte, Tampa, and more, with new homes being added regularly. Many members use PadSplit for short-term stays, while others find the flexibility and affordability make it the right long-term solution for them.
👉 Check out recent reviews from PadSplit members.
Choosing what works for your life
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to housing, but PadSplit is an excellent fit for those looking for more flexibility, fewer upfront costs, and an easier way to find stable, move-in-ready housing. Whether you’re rebuilding credit, starting fresh in a new city, or just trying to save month to month, PadSplit offers a foundation to move forward.
If you’re weighing your options, ask yourself what matters most right now: Is it savings? Flexibility? Speed? A supportive environment? PadSplit was built to remove the roadblocks that traditional renting often creates, and for many people, it’s the option that finally fits.
Ready to learn more? Browse available rooms in your city to see what’s possible, or start your application today!
