Living Alone? The 'Singles Tax' That Costs $10K a Year

New analysis finds Americans living solo face significant rent burden compared to those with roommates.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A new Zillow analysis finds that Americans living alone are paying a 'singles tax' of around $10,470 per year on average due to higher rents compared to those who live with roommates or partners. The report highlights the financial challenges of solo living, especially in high-cost cities like New York, San Jose, and San Francisco where the singles tax can exceed $20,000 annually.

Why it matters

As rents continue rising across the U.S., the financial burden of living alone is becoming increasingly difficult for many Americans. This 'singles tax' can make it harder for solo renters to save for major life goals like buying a home, and raises questions about housing affordability and the tradeoffs of living arrangements.

The details

The typical U.S. apartment rent is currently $1,745 per month, up 30% over the last five years. Zillow's analysis found that solo renters effectively pay a 'singles tax' averaging $10,470 per year compared to those who split rent with a partner or roommates. In high-cost cities like New York, San Jose, and San Francisco, the singles tax can exceed $20,000 annually. Renters who live with a partner or roommate can get a 'couples discount' of around $20,940 per year by splitting everyday costs.

  • Zillow's analysis is based on current rental market data as of February 2026.

The players

Zillow

An online real estate company that provides data and analytics on the U.S. housing market.

Emily Smith

Zillow's rental trends expert who commented on the 'singles tax' findings.

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What they’re saying

“When you're living alone, you're covering the full rent on one income and that can add up fast.”

— Emily Smith, Zillow rental trends expert (Zillow)

“For renters who choose to live with a partner or roommate, splitting everyday costs like rent, utilities and groceries can go a long way in easing the pressure of today's higher cost of living.”

— Emily Smith, Zillow rental trends expert (Zillow)

What’s next

The report noted the couples discount can go a long way toward helping renters save for a down payment on a home, with the national average couples discount of $20,940 being more than halfway to a 10% down payment on a typical U.S. home.

The takeaway

This analysis highlights the significant financial burden faced by Americans who choose to live alone, especially in high-cost housing markets. As rents continue rising, the 'singles tax' makes it increasingly difficult for solo renters to achieve financial stability and save for major life goals like homeownership.