Find Affordable Apartments With In-Unit Washer & Dryer

When apartment hunting, chances are high you've searched "apartments with in-unit washer and dryer" at least once on Google. That makes sense: with busy schedules, late-night study sessions, commutes to work, and all that life throws your way, no one wants to waste hours waiting for shared laundry machines to open.

Demand for in-unit laundry has skyrocketed among students and young professionals seeking alternative weekend activities. According to Rentcafe reports, apartments offering in-unit laundry often command, sometimes, $100 to $175 more per month.

If you're in search of an apartment with its own washer and dryer, this guide offers everything you need to know: from affordable options and hidden fees, what tours will look for, to how you can negotiate like an expert.

Why Renters Want In-Unit Washer/Dryer More than Ever

Before diving in with the how, it's helpful to understand why, particularly if you are undecided as to whether the premium is worth paying.

1. Time savings are immense

One laundry trip can last 2-3 hours. If this occurs weekly, that adds up to 100+ hours wasted annually in laundromats or basement laundry rooms.

2. It is safer and more convenient

No one enjoys carrying their laundry out to an outside machine late at night (or early in the morning before class or work). With in-unit machines, that extra trip and its associated stresses are eliminated.

3. Ideal for allergy sufferers and those with sensitive skin

Your own washer isn't shared by everyone in a building, which means fewer concerns about leftover detergent, pet dander, or mildew from someone forgetting their wet load.

4. It provides an everyday quality-of-life upgrade

Consistency, privacy, and never having to wait again for a dryer are qualities hard to put a price on.

How Much Are Apartments with In-Unit Laundry Costing?

Renters often want to know, "How much more am I paying for this?"

ApartmentAdvisor shows the median U.S. rent for one-bedroom apartments is $1,495 in October 2025. Units featuring in-unit washers and dryers typically rent for 5-10% more than comparable units without them.

Newer buildings (especially those constructed post-2010) are more likely to feature in-unit laundry as a standard feature. More than 80% of multifamily units built during this decade feature such facilities, according to data provided by the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC). (Source)

How to Cut Costs

• Search older but well-kept buildings — many could contain renovated units with modern appliances.
• Consider co-living communities — they typically offer in-unit or suite laundry at lower rates than traditional apartments.
• Expand your search radius a few blocks — staying just outside high-demand zones may result in lower rent costs.
• Move during off-season — Rents tend to decrease between November and February in most U.S. cities when fewer people are moving (according to analyses conducted by ApartmentList).

How to Find Affordable Apartments With Washer & Dryers In Unit

Here's a handy checklist renters can use to ensure a good deal:

1. Select the Appropriate Filters

Most rental platforms provide "in-unit laundry" as an initial filter option. Activate it as early as possible so as not to waste time with apartments that won't suit you anyway.

2. Determine buildings rather than individual units

Some complexes offer apartments equipped with in-unit washer/dryers, making it easier for agents to close deals because there is more inventory and seasonal promotions.

3. Don't dismiss co-living communities

Co-living has quietly become one of the best strategies for affordability. These shared homes often include private bedrooms with private baths, furnished common areas, and in-unit or suite laundry as an added benefit.

Students and young professionals often prefer co-living due to its advantages:

• Your rent and utilities are being split.
• Your cost for furniture purchases could be saved.
• Lease agreements tend to offer more flexible terms.
• Utilities, WiFi access, and cleaning services often come together.

Tripalink operates modern co-living homes and apartments across major West Coast cities. Most of these come fully furnished and provide access to in-unit laundry, making them an attractive option for renters who value simplicity without paying luxury prices.

4. Search for washer/dryer hookups

If you are willing to purchase or bring in your own machines, units with hookups may offer an economical alternative to fully furnished apartments.

5. Search for Incentives

Common incentives include:

• First month free
• Reduced security deposits
• Rent credits on longer leases
• Arrive by a certain date for free parking

These incentives may help offset the additional expense of in-unit laundry services.

What to Consider on an Apartment Tour

Even if an apartment advertises that it offers in-unit laundry facilities, be sure to verify a few aspects during your tour.

1. Inspect the machines

Ask:

• How old are the appliances?
• Are they full-size or compact?
• Are these ventilated or ventless products?
• Who pays for repairs or replacement?

Newer energy-efficient machines may help lower utility expenses.

2. Check water pressure and electrical outlets

Run the washer briefly. Make sure:

• Draining properly
• No excessive rattling
• The dryer heats and vents safely

3. Determine utility costs

Some buildings provide water or electricity coverage for laundry-related electricity usage, while others don't. Ventless dryers may add extra costs, depending on their model.

4. Verify repair response times

Are you waiting three weeks for your broken washer to be fixed? Ask:

• How fast does maintenance respond?
• Are there emergency lines available?
• Are machines repaired or replaced when necessary?

If the response seems vague or indeterminate, that should serve as a warning signal.

5. Locate all machines

Installation matters for optimal use:

• Is it in a hallway closet or in your bedroom?
• Are there enough spaces available for hampers?
• Are there ways to run the dryer without heating the whole apartment?

Comfort matters — beyond simply offering amenities.

What You Should Know Before Signing a Lease Agreement

Before signing, here are the most essential points to be considered:

1. What are the contents of my lease agreement?

Be certain that your rental covers:

• Water
• Gas or electric
• Trash and sewer
• Washer/dryer repairs
• Parking

Some landlords advertise "in-unit laundry", yet charge extra for maintenance of appliances.

2. Read and Understand the Maintenance Clause

You want to know:

• Who repairs the machines?
• How quickly do they respond?
• Are there charges associated with normal wear and tear?
• Have you considered renters' insurance? (Many LA and large city landlords now require it)

3. Evaluate the condition before moving in

Record photos or video during your tour and move-in inspection to document it all. Document:

• Scratches
• Rust
• Leaks
• Mold or moisture (especially behind the washer)

Protecting these later can benefit both you and the deposit.

4. Be familiar with your building's laundry rules

Certain buildings are restricted:

• Washing after 10 p.m.
• Using certain detergents
• Overloading machines
• Drying bulky items

Get these rules in writing.

5. Be wary of hidden fees

These can include:

• Monthly appliance fees
• Higher security deposits
• Mandatory insurance add-ons
• Service fees for maintenance visits

If something seems unclear to you before signing anything, be sure to seek clarification first.

Pro Tips for Saving Money on In-Unit Laundry Apartments

1. Negotiate smarter, not harder

No need to negotiate the rent every time. Instead, try asking for what you want:

• Free parking
• Waived pet fees
• Free or discounted months
• Reduced deposit

Landlords tend to be more accommodating on fees than on rent.

2. Compare long-term cost, not just rent

An apartment that costs $75 more but includes free laundry may be cheaper than one that's $50 less but charges a per-load fee.

3. Consider co-living to realize cost savings

Co-living may be the least costly way to enjoy convenience on a tight budget while receiving in-unit laundry and having access to furnished housing units.

4. Consider moving at an appropriate time

Signing your lease between November and February can often save you money when demand is lowest, and landlords offer their best offers.

5. Don’t skip the walkthrough

Any unit can become costly if the washer leaks and causes damage to the floor, so always inspect everything before making your decision.

Conclusions: Does In-Unit Laundry Offer Value?

If convenience, privacy, and time are important to you, then renting can save time by eliminating errands and the need to haul laundry bags across the street. Even the small rent premium often pays for itself after factoring in all those savings.

Finding the appropriate unit can be tricky business, so knowing how to find it quickly is essential.

• Utilize filters and automatic alerts
• Consider exploring beyond the most bustling neighborhoods
• Consider co-living for increased value.
• Make use of intelligent questions during tours
• Consider reading your lease contract like it's an agreement for a loan

With proper preparation, you can find an apartment that matches both your budget and lifestyle — without giving up the comfort of doing laundry in your pajamas at midnight.