First Apartment Setup Calculator
Plan the costs of furnishing your first apartment: furniture, kitchen, appliances and small items at realistic new and used prices, entirely in your browser. Optional rental deposit and moving costs included.
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Legal notice
Current as of: 11.08.2026.
The results reflect the legal and fiscal state as of the date stated above. They are provided for general information and initial guidance only. They are not individual financial, tax or legal advice, and no guarantee is given as to their accuracy, completeness or suitability for your circumstances. In particular, the results are not a substitute for an official or judicial assessment. Please check the information independently and seek qualified advice where appropriate, as you are solely responsible for any decision made in reliance on the result.
How to use this tool (video)
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First apartment setup calculator: costs for your first home
Moving into your first apartment is exciting and quickly costs more than expected. Our first apartment setup calculator helps you plan the expenses for furniture, kitchen, appliances and small items realistically, so you are not surprised at the end.
What does the setup cost?
Costs depend heavily on the budget level. As guideline values for Germany (as of September 2026):
- Kitchen with large appliances: around 600 € used, 1,400 € mid-range, up to 2,800 € new with branded appliances.
- Bedroom (bed, mattress, wardrobe): around 350 € used, 900 € mid-range, 1,800 € new.
- Living room (sofa, table, lamps): around 250 € used, 650 € mid-range, 1,500 € new.
- Bathroom (towels, shower curtain, small furniture): 60–200 €.
- Small items and cleaning supplies: 80–300 €.
- Washing machine: around 200 € used, 450 € mid-range, 900 € new.
What is not included?
This calculator only looks at the initial setup. Not included are the rental deposit (usually up to three months of cold rent), moving costs, connection fees for electricity and water, and ongoing utility costs.
Tips for a cheap setup
- Used instead of new: auction sites, classifieds and social supermarkets deliver solid furniture for a fraction of the new price.
- Prioritise: kitchen and bed first, decoration and second-choice furniture later.
- Help from the job centre: those receiving basic income or citizen's allowance can apply for a setup grant.
This is an estimate
The price ranges are average values. Regional differences, quality and the second-hand market can change the actual costs significantly. The figures do not replace individual financial advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does a complete apartment setup cost?
Depending on the budget level, total costs typically range from around 1,500 € (used, budget) to over 8,000 € (new, comfort). On average expect about 3,500 to 5,000 €, excluding the rental deposit and moving.
What is included in the setup?
Usually furniture (bed, wardrobe, table, chairs), kitchen equipment (cookware, dishes, cutlery), household appliances such as fridge, cooker and washing machine, as well as cleaning equipment and other basics.
Does the job centre cover the setup?
Yes, those receiving citizen's allowance or basic income can apply for a setup grant under § 24 (3) SGB II. As a guide for 2026, an individual can expect around 850 to 1,250 euros, a couple around 1,300 to 1,800 euros, plus about 250 euros per additional child. Municipalities set the exact rates, and you must apply before you buy.
How high is the rental deposit for a first apartment?
The rental deposit is legally limited to a maximum of three months of net cold rent and can be paid in monthly instalments. It is not included in this calculator.
Are my entries stored?
No. All calculations run 100 % locally in your browser. Your entries are not transmitted to a server.