Howdy y’all. Just moved to SLC for my job. Base salary is about $46,000 a year plus commissions. Found a couple nice 1 bedroom 1 bathroom places for about $1,150-$1,200 a month. Plus utilities I’m looking at basically $1,500 a month. First time renter here. Is this a reasonable budget? I’m looking to base my budget off base salary so anything that I take in commission wise will go to other living expenses and savings. Thanks!
Looking for advice on rental budget
byu/poonspass inRealEstate
Posted by poonspass
5 Comments
Just off the top of my head that sounds tight to me. Can you go any lower and still get a decent place?
Might also want to try r/saltlakecity
46k a year is a very low salary in 2026, you will have trouble living on your own and saving anything
Your salary is just over 3x rent+utilities, it sounds fine. Plus your commission will help.
Seems perfectly reasonable.
Hey, congrats on the move to SLC! Basing your budget on your base pay is a super smart move, especially with commissions being unpredictable.
Usually, landlords look for your gross income to be at least 3x the rent. At $46k, you’re making about $3,833 a month, so $1,200 for rent is right at that 30% mark. It’s doable, but $1,500 total with utilities might feel a bit tight on those weeks when commissions are low.
Since it’s your first time renting, just double check what’s included in that $1,500. Some spots in SLC have extra “media packages” or valet trash fees that sneak up on you. If you can swing it, you’re in a good spot, but maybe keep an eye out for a place closer to $1,000 just to give yourself more breathing room for fun stuff. Good luck with the new job!