How Much Is a Security Deposit?
Most security deposits equal 1–2 months' rent, depending on your state. On a $1,500/month apartment, expect a $1,500–$3,000 security deposit upfront — on top of first and last month's rent. That means move-in day can easily cost $4,500–$7,500 before you even buy furniture.
Here's what most renters don't know: 32 states cap security deposits by law. Your landlord may not be allowed to charge more than one month's rent, and many states require the deposit to be held in an interest-bearing account. Know your rights before signing a lease.
Security Deposit Limits by State
Laws vary dramatically by state. Here are the rules for the 10 most populated states:
| State | Maximum Deposit | Return Deadline | Interest Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 2 months | 21 days | No |
| New York | 1 month | 14 days | Yes, in some cases |
| Texas | No limit | 30 days | No |
| Florida | No limit | 15–60 days | Yes, if held 6+ months |
| Illinois | No limit | 30–45 days | No |
| Pennsylvania | 2 months first year, 1 month after | 30 days | Yes, after 2 years |
| Ohio | No limit | 30 days | No |
| Georgia | No limit | 30 days | No |
| North Carolina | 2 months | 30 days | No |
| Massachusetts | 1 month | 30 days | Yes |
How to Split a Security Deposit With Roommates
The simplest approach is an equal split: total deposit divided by the number of roommates. But if bedrooms are different sizes or roommates pay different rent amounts, a proportional split based on each person's rent share is fairer.
One important detail most roommates overlook: only one person is typically on the deposit check from the landlord. That means you need to document each person's contribution in writing before anyone moves in. Get a signed agreement that specifies:
- Amount each person paid toward the security deposit
- Who receives the refund check from the landlord
- How deductions are shared — equally, proportionally, or charged to the person responsible for the damage
Need to figure out fair rent shares first? Use the rent split calculator to determine how much each roommate should pay based on room size and features.
Getting Your Full Security Deposit Back
The single best thing you can do is document the apartment's condition at move-in. Take photos of every wall, floor, and appliance — with timestamps. Email them to yourself and your landlord so there's a dated record. This protects you from being charged for pre-existing damage.
When it's time to move out, remember that normal wear and tear is NOT deductible. Landlords cannot charge you for paint that faded over three years or carpet that wore down from normal foot traffic.
Before handing back the keys, invest in making the unit spotless. Pay $200–$300 for a professional deep clean — it's almost always cheaper than what a landlord will deduct for cleaning fees. Fix minor damage yourself: spackle nail holes for $5 instead of a $50 deduction, and touch up paint for $20 instead of a $100 charge.
Finally, know your state's return deadline (see the table above). If your landlord is late returning the deposit, send a written demand letter via certified mail. In many states, landlords who miss the deadline owe you the full deposit back regardless of any damage.
What Can a Landlord Deduct From Your Deposit?
Understanding the line between deductible damage and normal wear helps you dispute unfair charges:
Allowed deductions: damage beyond normal wear and tear, including holes in walls, broken fixtures, carpet stains, pet damage, missing keys, and unauthorized alterations.
NOT allowed: normal wear and tear, including faded paint, worn carpet from foot traffic, minor scuffs on walls, loose door handles from normal use, and small nail holes from hanging pictures.
Planning your full move-in budget? Use the move-in cost calculator to estimate all upfront costs including first month's rent, security deposit, and moving expenses.