The city meets urban, suburban and rural in one, with the most well-known motor race in the country: The Indy 500. Apart from raceways and government buildings, Indianapolis is home to stunning waterways, unique memorials and a picturesque charm you won’t find in any other city. Indianapolis is altogether her own city and completely unique.
If you’re moving into Indy or just relocating within city limits, you’ll want to examine this list closely. You’ll find the best neighborhoods in Indianapolis for your needs as you try to make that all-important decision on where to move.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,796
Median 2-BR rent: $1,204
Walk Score: 37/100
Not far from Downtown is the bustling neighborhood of Broad Ripple Village. The district is one for relaxed vibes and a community with tons of playgrounds and small businesses where families love to spend their time. Boutiques, galleries, pubs, breweries, pottery schools and other exciting options collect in this eclectic neighborhood, with reasonably priced apartments and plenty of room.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,022
Median 2-BR rent: $1,145
Walk Score: 37/100
If you’re looking for a super-inclusive neighborhood in Indianapolis, then Crooked Creek is the place for you. It’s considered one of the most inclusive areas in the city, with plenty of activities for the whole family, whatever the age. Everyone can find something in one of the best neighborhoods in Indianapolis.
Crooked Creek is in the northwest part of the city in Marion County and offers you plenty of parks and bike trails, horseback riding options and the Juan Solomon Park. Average rent prices are more affordable, too. It’s farther from the center of the city than many of the other popular neighborhoods so you’ll probably need a car living here.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,399
Median 2-BR rent: $1,722
Walk Score: 84/100
Sometimes called the Mile Square, Downtown Indianapolis is a neighborhood for folks looking for an active life. The neighborhood is full of cocktail bars, local festivals and marathons, art exhibits, dining establishments and coffee shops, among others. Because of the incredible revitalization occurring in the area and the booming boutiques and restaurants, Downtown Indy is one of the most popular areas in the city, especially since rent is actually pretty reasonable here.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,022
Median 2-BR rent: $1,145
Walk Score: 37/100
Another historically inclined neighborhood in Indy is Fall Creek. Here you’ll find plenty of historic houses and tree-lined streets for a gorgeous, comfortable community. Nearby parks surround apartment buildings and modern amenities you’ll love.
The neighborhood went through a total urban revitalization in the early 2000s, turning the area into a cozy place where you have access to the rest of the city within minutes and lots of local dining, work and entertainment opportunities.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,250
Median 2-BR rent: $1,425
Walk Score: 77/100
Another popular neighborhood in Indy is Fountain Square. It’s an affordable neighborhood where singles and professionals flock for the European city square vibe at the central fountain and plaza, along with the active nightlife and walkability of the area.
In Fountain Square, you’ll find tons of cozy apartments, single-family homes and duplexes nestled among the popular bowling alleys, billiard halls, bars, comedy clubs, live music venues and ethically-sourced home goods boutiques. Shop for clothing next door, drop into the local brewery or grab Pad Thai or street tacos at the local eateries. This is the perfect makeup of a best neighborhood in Indianapolis.
Source: Rent./E Washington St.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,022
Median 2-BR rent: $1,145
Walk Score: 37/100
Named for Washington Irving, Irvington is a great neighborhood that’s filled with history and encompasses 545 acres overall. The neighborhood originally came to prominence back in 1875 and stayed as the chic spot into the late 1920s, when Butler University grew up around it. Now, the whole neighborhood is kind of a historical small town within the city with many houses on the National Register of Historic Places.
Irvington is friendly and walkable (though not so much for running errands) with plenty of easy streets and parks and green spaces for tranquil living in the middle of the urban area. You’ll find plenty of shopping and dining, as well, in the neighborhood.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,102
Median 2-BR rent: $1,388
Walk Score: 41/100
Residents in Keystone at the Crossing are predominantly renters, and anyone looking for a familiar vibe will find it right here. The neighborhood suits all types of renters, too, with a concentration of jobs and nightlife in one section for the young professionals or peaceful quiet portions for families looking for some chill atmosphere.
Keystone at the Crossing is also a shopping center focused on the favorite Fashion Mall at Keystone. Apartments in the neighborhood are affordable, comfortable and reasonably easy to find, making it one of the best neighborhoods in Indianapolis.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,711
Median 2-BR rent: $1,099
Walk Score: 89/100
Lockerbie Square is one of the city’s oldest surviving neighborhoods. The historic locale is Downtown and known for the residence of Hoosier poet James Whitcomb Riley. The historic district offers surprisingly affordable rent and plenty of gorgeous architecture and cobblestone streets in a highly walkable area.
In Lockerbie Square, you’ll find some Bavarian influence with German heritage events, year-round festivals and celebrations and plenty of biergartens and Bavarian restaurants. There will definitely be crowds in the hood every time there’s the annual German Fest or other German heritage events going on.
Source: Rent./N College Ave.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,022
Median 2-BR rent: $1,145
Walk Score: 37/100
Meridian-Kessler is just 20 minutes from Downtown, offering residents quick, easy access to pretty much anywhere in the city for a lower housing rate than some of the other popular neighborhoods. It’s the perfect blend of urban and suburban for families and young professionals looking for green spaces, quiet streets and easy access to the main part of the city.
The median age of residents in Meridian-Kessler is 25-34, so the neighborhood is active and home to tons of local events, while the gorgeous Tudor-style houses and Craftsman-style cottages are plentiful and affordable. Butler University is just down the street, too, making it the perfect neighborhood for those working at the University or older students continuing their education.
In Meridian-Kessler, you’ll find tons of amazing local shops and restaurants, too, with offerings like short ribs and Latin American fare. You can also find a mix of books, live music, craft beer, vintage clothing and even a bridal expo at the Indiana State Fairgrounds just nearby.
Median 1-BR rent: $750
Median 2-BR rent: $767
Walk Score: 51/100
Near Eastside is one of those areas of town that’s been reclaimed and turned into a hipster hotspot with trendy new restaurants and developments and loads of amenities urban dwellers are looking for. You’ll find super affordable rentals here, along with retail shops, movie theaters, breweries, coffee shops, fining and more. The vibe in this best neighborhood in Indianapolis is definitely younger millennials.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,022
Median 2-BR rent: $1,145
Walk Score: 37/100
Similar to the other “near” neighborhoods, Near North is close to the heart of the city and made up of several smaller neighborhoods starting to find shape in themselves. The Near North is home to century-old houses, tree-lined streets, cultural landmarks and loads of beauty.
Plus, it’s just a five-minute drive (or Uber) away from the core of Indy, where you’ll find any nightlife or shopping you crave if you haven’t already found it here in the Near North.
Source: Rent./Vivio on Tenth
Median 1-BR rent: $1,045
Median 2-BR rent: $1,200
Walk Score: 44/100
The Near Westside of Indy is a cluster of smaller neighborhoods that attract renters looking for affordable housing near the main urban area of the city. Near Westside is just 15 minutes from downtown and offers more spacious areas at a more affordable price than others a little closer to the busiest parts of town.
Near Westside is also convenient to Bloomington, Lafayette, Terre Haute and other nearby college campus towns.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,022
Median 2-BR rent: $1,145
Walk Score: 37/100
North Willow is a super family-friendly area with affordable rent and plenty of choices for folks looking to settle into a cozy neighborhood with or without the kids. You’ll find it within easy access of Castleton and Keystone at the Crossing areas, as well. Plus, of course, the local entertainment and dining you’ll come to love in one of the best neighborhoods in Indianapolis.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,145
Median 2-BR rent: $1,439
Walk Score: 29/100
Old Northside offers its residents and visitors a blend of historic beauty and modern appeal. Restored Victorian homes are common, some of which have landed themselves a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
The neighborhood is a few minutes away from IU Health Methodist Hospital, making it the perfect location for folks working there. You can choose from single-family homes with yard space, condos, apartments and more. Old Northside is also home to Indiana’s first-ever gay bar and is the most LGBTQIA+ friendly neighborhood in the city.
In the neighborhood, you’ll be able to visit the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site and check out local artists at the Harrison Center. You can also participate in regular art events, take a job on the Monon Trail or enjoy the thriving nightlife in the area. Most folks do recommend a car for residents here.
Source: Rent./The Block
Median 1-BR rent: $1,022
Median 2-BR rent: $1,145
Walk Score: 37/100
Some cities have a warehouse district. Indy has the Wholesale District.
Here you’ll find the shimmering lights of theater marquees and elegant soirees, where doormen welcome residents. Circle Centre mall makes way for shoppers, who fill the neighborhood with bustling expectations and a thriving art scene.
Find the best Indianapolis neighborhood for you
You’ve come to the right place to find the best neighborhoods in Indianapolis! With condos, townhouses and single-family apartments for rent in Indianapolis, you’re sure to find the right spot for your lifestyle, be that calm and cozy or hip and happening.
The rent information included in this article is based on a median calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Apartment Guide and Rent. as of November 2021 and is for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.
Every item on this page was chosen by a Woman’s Day editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
1
Best for Floating Flowers
Webelkart Diya Shape Urli Bowl
1
Best for Floating Flowers
Webelkart Diya Shape Urli Bowl
Credit: Webelkart
This special bowl can hold floating flowers and candles. You’ll appreciate the intricate detail on its metallic finish. Just fill it with water and artificial or real flowers with no stems. You can also use it for scented potpourri.
2
Most Festive Rangoli
Itiha Indian Rangoli Floor & Table Decoration
2
Most Festive Rangoli
Itiha Indian Rangoli Floor & Table Decoration
Credit: Itiha
This gorgeous rangoli is a great addition to tabletops. You can also lay it on the floor. Handcrafted by Indian artisans, you can use this to hold one candle at a time.
3
Best Diwali Door Decorations
Diwali Peacock Porch Banner
3
Best Diwali Door Decorations
Diwali Peacock Porch Banner
During Diwali, people might also decorate with peacocks due to their bright colors. This intricate door decor — which is made of polyester so it won’t wrinkle — will impress your neighbors.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
4
Best Budget Diwali Decoration
Diwali Backdrop
4
Best Budget Diwali Decoration
Diwali Backdrop
Credit: TENCOW
Hang this on any wall in your house for your Diwali party. The bold banner can also serve as a beautiful backdrop for a party photo booth. It features festive images of diyas, rangolis, and candles to boot.
5
Best Diwali Photo Booth Props
Duormal Diwali Photo Booth Props
5
Best Diwali Photo Booth Props
Duormal Diwali Photo Booth Props
Credit: Duormal
Who doesn’t love a good photo opp? This 16-piece kit comes with some fun adornments for your photo booth. With signs that say Happy Diwali, Festival of Light, and Warm Diwali Wishes, you can spread joy and awareness of the event. In true photo booth style, you’ll also get fun glasses, lips, mustaches, and more to complete your shot.
RELATED: 40 Fun Diwali Captions to Celebrate the Holiday
6
Best Diwali Centerpieces
Diwali Honeycomb Table Centerpieces
6
Best Diwali Centerpieces
Diwali Honeycomb Table Centerpieces
Credit: Know Me
These fabulous Diwali decorations can adorn your tables and other surfaces with bright colors and fun images. This 9-piece set comes flat, but easily opens up into 3D centerpieces. And the best part is, you can reuse them year after year.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
7
Best Diwali Decorative Table Runner
Linen Diwali Table Runner
7
Best Diwali Decorative Table Runner
Linen Diwali Table Runner
Credit: Jiudungs
Tablecloths are often either too formal or a little corny, depending on the design. To elevate your table for Diwali and keep things chic yet festive, a table runner is the perfect solution. This one in a lovely purple and gold color scheme will truly dazzle in any party space.
8
Best Fill-in Rangoli Template
Aditri Creation Designer Rangoli Mat
8
Best Fill-in Rangoli Template
Aditri Creation Designer Rangoli Mat
Don’t let the simplicity of this rangoli template fool you. When you pair it with colorful rangoli powder, it’ll be a lovely addition to tabletops. If you don’t want to make a mess of the powder, you can also paint it beautifully!
Hosting a dinner party or having people over for some delicious treats? A personalized plate can be a great addition to your tablescape. This round plate features a diya. Simply customize with your family name to make it your own.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
10
Best Large Diwali Banner
Diwali Banner for Fence
10
Best Large Diwali Banner
Diwali Banner for Fence
Credit: FARMNALL
If you have the space, let your neighbors know you celebrate Diwali with this 8-foot long sign. Display it on your fence or garage. Made of durable fabric, it can withstand wind and snow and won’t fade or wrinkle, so you can use it for years to come.
11
Best Happy Diwali Outdoor Decor
Diwali Yard Signs
11
Best Happy Diwali Outdoor Decor
Diwali Yard Signs
Credit: ADXCO
By now, you’ve likely seen graduation, baby shower, and birthday yard signs on your neighbor’s lawns. For Diwali, you can do the same! Share your Diwali pride with your community by staking these fun Diwali decorations outside. The set comes with 11 different pieces that scream Happy Diwali.
With this kit, you’ll get five feet of sweet artificial marigold garland to display over mantles, bookcases, or doorways. Choose from three different color combinations of orange, pink, and yellow.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
13
Best Rangoli Stencil Set
Rangoli Stencils
13
Best Rangoli Stencil Set
Rangoli Stencils
Use these rangoli stencils to easily create your own beautiful rangoli designs at home. Get the whole family involved for a fun and inexpensive Diwali activity!
14
DIY Sand Art Decor
A Kailo Chic Life
During Diwali, you will undoubtedly have candles all over your home. While you can use your standard candle holders, you may want to add some fun for the holiday by making these lovely (and easy!) sand art holders.
Get the Sand Art Decor tutorial at A Kailo Chic Life.
SHOP CRAFT SAND
15
DIY Dancing Ribbon Rings
Buggy and Buddy
One of the simplest crafts we’ve seen to date, these dancing ribbon rings can be made with your favorite hues. Since Diwali is marked by bold colors, select several colors to tie around wood rings. You can then hang these rings around the house or let kids craft and play with them during your Diwali party.
Get the Dancing Ribbon Ring tutorial at Buggy and Buddy.
SHOP RAINBOW RIBBON
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
16
DIY Tissue Tassel Garland Cake Topper
See Vanessa Craft
We love the idea of using this DIY garland cake topper for your dessert table. If you’re serving a cake or pie, consider hanging it on top to give your table that extra added color that Diwali calls for. And the best part is, it’s easy to make and requires only a few materials.
Get the Tissue Tassel Garland Cake Topper tutorial at See Vanessa Craft.
SHOP COLORFUL TISSUE PAPER
Ysolt Usigan is a lifestyle writer and editor with 15+ years of experience working in digital media. She has created share-worthy content for publishers Shape, What To Expect, Cafe Mom, TODAY, CBS News, HuffPo, The Bump, Health, Ask Men, and Best Gifts. A working mom of two, her editorial expertise in parenting, shopping, and home are rooted in her everyday life.
Our experts answer readers’ home-buying questions and write unbiased product reviews (here’s how we assess mortgages). In some cases, we receive a commission from our partners; however, our opinions are our own.
The Federal Reserve stated after its September meeting that it would not raise the federal funds rate this time. Before inflation and high interest rates, mortgage rates were around 3% and now they can be as high as nearly 7%.
The higher interest rates have made many potential homeowners press pause, but are interest rates the only thing you should be watching when considering a home purchase?
It’s not just the buying of the home that should be the focus, but also the reality of owning it. If your budget isn’t ready for that, maybe buying a home isn’t the right choice.
Here are three signs that you cannot afford a home right now:
1. You don’t have any emergency savings
Saving for a down payment on a home can take a lot of time and resources, but when you do buy your home, it shouldn’t wipe you out financially. While you are saving to buy, you should still be building (or maintaining) your emergency fund.
Having cash on hand for unexpected emergencies and expenses is crucial and even more so when you own a home. Imagine my shock when I woke up one morning and the tree in my yard had fallen and landed on my neighbor’s car. I needed money immediately to take care of that situation.
SoFi Checking and Savings is one of the best checking account options if you want to keep your savings and checking with one bank SoFi offers Money Vaults, a tool that can help you save for individual goals.
2. You’re only expecting a mortgage payment
When thinking about purchasing a home, the amount of the mortgage payment seems to be the only thing anyone considers. You can even use online mortgage calculators to determine what your monthly payment will be based on interest rate and down payment variables.
But there is more to owning a home than the monthly payment. Once you are in the house, there are hidden expenses of homeownership. There are property taxes, homeowners insurance, maintenance, and more.
This is what is called the true cost of ownership. When you add up everything, it can be significantly more than just the mortgage payment. Make sure you run the numbers and determine if you can afford it all.
3. You have significant debt already
In reality, everyone seems to be carrying some form of debt. No, you do not have to be debt-free to purchase a home, but if you are carrying significant credit card debt or student loans, adding a monthly payment to your mortgage lender may not be right for you right now.
This is where the difference between renting and buying will come into play. If you are renting and student loan payments resume or you find yourself in a situation where affordability is an issue, you can move or you can try to negotiate down the rent on your apartment.
But when you own a home, there is much less wiggle room. To move, means you have to sell your home — and it is really hard to change your mortgage payment.
If you have significant debt, maybe wait to purchase a home until that debt is paid off.
Debt consolidation can be a useful tool to help pay down existing debt at a lower interest rate. Many of the best personal loans will allow you to check your personalized loan rates before you apply, allowing you to protect your credit score against unwanted hard inquiries. Get prequalified for loans without impacting your credit score.
Jennifer Streaks
Senior Personal Finance Reporter and Spokesperson
Jennifer is a Senior Personal Finance Reporter and Spokesperson for the Personal Finance vertical at Business Insider. She started her career covering personal finance at Black Enterprise Magazine, went on to CNBC where she covered personal finance, women and money and tech and then Forbes, where she reported on personal finance, business, tech and money matters related to the economy, investing, credit and entrepreneurship. Jennifer is also the author of Thrive!…Affordably: Your Month to Month Guide to living your Best Life without breaking the bank. The book offers advice, tips and financial management lessons geared towards helping the reader highlight strengths, identify missteps and take control of their finances. In addition, she has extensive experience as an on-air financial commentator and has been a featured expert discussing credit and savings, investing and retirement, mortgages and all things money and personal finance. She has an ability to discuss and simplify complex financial issues and make them easier to understand.
In the world of real estate, where property expertise reigns supreme, it comes as little surprise that the most successful real estate agents own some of the most remarkable and envy-inducing residences.
With their extensive knowledge of market trends and investment potential — not to mention their keenly trained eye for luxury living — real estate pros are the first to spot desirable properties, often before they are even listed for the general public to see.
They then leverage their design expertise and Rolodex of industry connections to turn their homes into personal sanctuaries that serve as living testaments to their industry acumen and discerning tastes.
Such is the case of Billy Rose, realtor to the stars and co-founder of luxury real estate brokerage, The Agency.
Rose, rated as one of the best real estate agents in Los Angeles (and the entire country, once being named the Number 10 real estate agent in the U.S. by The Wall Street Journal), owns an architecturally distinct home in one of Los Angeles’ best areas, which he’s now bringing to market.
Priced at $5,895,000, the elegant abode has served as Billy Rose’s personal residence for 20 years.
Located in the sought-after Westword neighborhood, the property sits on the “first lot bought in highly coveted Westwood Hills”, per the listing, and is known as the Murrow Residence, named after its original owners.
Rose himself provided a little bit of background on the home’s history.
“The Murrows considered the lot to be the trophy of Westwood Hills,” Billy Rose tells us. “Mr. Murrow, for whom the home was built, was (as I understand it) a bit of a “mucky muck” at the Rand Corporation. He had rigged the front door such that he could attach a 35mm projector to the door and project through to the living room.“
But it’s not just the location that appealed to The Agency co-founder.
The home’s distinct design played a big role too. The 1940-built residence is an outstanding example of International Style architecture (post Deco and pre Mid-Century Modern).
“I find International Style architecture to be sublime,” Billy Rose shared in an exclusive comment for Fancy Pants Homes. “The style is best described as stripped of all unnecessary ornamentation and about accentuating the strengths of the home (the view, the layout, the light, the circulation, the air flow). Le Corbusier (one of the pioneers of what is now regarded as modern architecture) summed it up best when he called a house a “machine for living”.“
Vintage and collectible lighting, designer finishes, and terrazzo and custom-milled walnut floors complement the home’s unique style, while broad expanses of glass in every direction bring the outdoors in.
The house has a total of 5 bedrooms — all suites — with the primary being touted as “one of the best primary suites in its class with extremely generous dual closets and baths”, per the listing.
The inviting chef’s kitchen has its own claim to fame.
“My wife is a chef and she filmed her show “Taste of Melrose” from there,” shared Rose whose wife, model-turned-chef Melissa Rose, has been filming her cooking show in their camera-ready kitchen for years.“It was not only a great exhibition kitchen, but it served us well for our numerous dinner parties.”
When prompted to pick his favorite area of the house, The Agency co-founder signaled out the primary bedroom suite, along with “the original stairway, with its two-story Torrance steel window system“, which he says was one of the things that drew him to the property.
Heading outside, we find a secluded backyard oasis with a cascading pool, spa, fire pit, grassy yard, dining and lounging areas, with mature landscaping, tall hedges, and privacy walls shielding it from prying eyes.
Unsurprisingly, Billy Rose holds the listing along with Stefan Pommepuy, also with The Agency.
And while Rose hasn’t yet been part of the cast of Buying Beverly Hills, the Netflix series starring agents from the luxury real estate brokerage he co-founded alongside Mauricio Umansky, we’re hoping his house will — and that the second season of the show will give us a better look inside his inviting abode.
More stories
This charming storybook cottage nestled under the iconic Hollywood sign will take you back to the early days of Hollywoodland
Home of the Week: Architect Harry Gesner’s personal home, the $22.5M Sandcastle House
An artist’s escape: Donald (@drawbertson) Robertson’s picture-perfect house in Montecito
Looking for jobs where you work alone? If you’re an introvert or simply want minimal human interaction, here are 40 ideas.
Looking for the best jobs where you work alone? If you’re an introvert or simply want minimal human interaction, here are 40 ideas.
With there being so many different types of jobs out there nowadays, more and more people are looking for jobs where they can be by themselves, away from the busy office or customers. They find comfort in jobs where they can do tasks on their own, letting them really concentrate and do well in what they do best.
For me, I have worked mostly alone for over a decade now, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I enjoy the flexibility of working on my own and having less stress.
Jobs that let you work this way are usually appealing to introverted individuals, those who like a calmer setting, or people who just work better with more independence.
Knowing which jobs let you work alone is really important for those who want to find the right mix of being on their own and getting things done well.
Top Jobs Where You Work Alone
There are 40 jobs where you can work alone listed below. If you want to skip the list, here are some jobs that you may want to start learning more about first:
Benefits of Jobs Where You Work Alone
More and more people are looking for jobs where they can work alone, and I get it! I have been working mostly alone for over a decade and I really love it.
After all, a person spends so much of their time working, so you might as well like what you’re doing. If you’re an introvert, or if you like working by yourself, there are jobs where you can do just that.
Some of the positives of working alone include:
Less stress if you’re an introvert – If you’re an introvert, then you may feel stress when working with other people, such as coworkers and customers.
Getting more stuff done in less time – Working alone may mean that you can complete your tasks faster because there are fewer distractions.
Having a more flexible schedule – Some jobs where you work on your own sometimes let you choose when you want to work, as long as you get the work done.
If you’re looking for jobs where you work alone, think about what you’re good at and what you enjoy (and also think about what you don’t like!).
40 Jobs Where You Work Alone
Below are 40 jobs where you can work on your own. The jobs below range from earning a part-time to a full-time income too.
1. Proofreader
Proofreaders check and edit written content for errors and inconsistencies, and this job requires strong attention to detail and excellent grammar skills.
If you’re good at paying close attention to details, then proofreading could be an ideal work-alone job for you.
Authors, website owners, and students often hire proofreaders to improve their work. There’s a high demand for proofreaders, and you can find jobs through many different platforms.
Even the most skilled writers can make mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. That’s why hiring a proofreader can be very helpful for pretty much anyone and everyone.
If you want to find online proofreading jobs, I recommend joining this free 76-minute workshop focused on proofreading. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to begin your own freelance proofreading business.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year).
2. Virtual Assistant
One of my first side jobs was as a virtual assistant and it was a fun and flexible way to earn income. While you do have a boss when you are a VA, a lot of the tasks that you do will require you to take charge and complete them by yourself in your own home.
A virtual assistant is someone who helps people with office tasks from a distance. This could be from your home or while you’re traveling. It might include things like replying to emails, setting up appointments, and managing social media accounts.
This job can pay you more than $50,000 each year.
If you want to find part-time or full-time virtual assistant jobs, I recommend joining the free workshop called “5 Steps To Become a Virtual Assistant“.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
3. Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers are people who keep track of all the money-related things for businesses such as writing down sales, keeping a record of expenses, and making financial reports.
This is a job where you can work alone and a typical salary is $40,000+ each year. Plus, you’ll mainly be dealing with numbers and not people.
You can join the free workshop that focuses on finding virtual bookkeeping jobs and how to begin your own freelance bookkeeping business by signing up for free here.
Recommended reading: How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs
4. Blogger
Blogging is a great way to make money while working on your own. It’s one of the reasons I really enjoy it, haha! I get to work by myself, for myself, and I can pick the projects I want to work on.
As a blogger, you write content for others to read online. You get to choose what you want to write about as well as how you want to make money blogging because there are so many different options (like affiliate marketing or displaying ads).
You can begin a successful blog about a specific topic like finance, travel, lifestyle, family, and many others.
Blogging is my main source of income, and it has completely transformed my life. I have the freedom to travel whenever I want, set my schedule, and be my boss.
Since I began Making Sense of Cents, I’ve made more than $5,000,000 from my blog. I earned this money by working with companies through sponsored partnerships, affiliate marketing, display ads, and selling online courses.
Learn more at How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
5. Delivery Driver
Delivery drivers pick up and drop off packages. And, they get to work by themself most of the time as they are in the vehicle alone.
A delivery driver may drive a car, truck, or even a bike, depending on the company they work for. They don’t usually have a boss watching them all day nor have to deal with very many customers for long periods.
6. Book Reviewer
Book reviewers read books and share their thoughts in book reviews.
There are websites where you can get paid for sharing your thoughts about books and you may earn money through PayPal or a bank transfer, and sometimes you get to keep the book you reviewed.
They don’t just want positive reviews either, they want to know what you really think! You see, authors and publishers like to send out free copies of their books so that they can get honest opinions. Just like us, they know it’s helpful to read reviews before deciding if a book is worth the time.
Some sites that pay for book reviews include Online Book Club, Kirkus Media, and BookBrowse.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books
7. Deliver RVs or Cars
You can earn money by traveling across the country and delivering vehicles for people and dealerships. Sometimes you’ll be towing the vehicle, and other times you’ll be driving it.
If you want a job with minimal human interaction, this can be a good one to look into as you are mostly by yourself. You simply pick up the vehicle, drive by yourself, and then drop it off.
For this job, you need to have a clean driving record. Those who do this type of work can earn around $300 to $400 (or much more!) for each vehicle they deliver. It depends on the distance they are traveling and what is being transported.
8. Digital or Graphic Designer
A graphic designer is someone who creates designs for others, such as people and businesses.
As a digital designer, you may be making things like images, printables, planners, t-shirt designs, calendars, business card designs, social media graphics, stickers, logos, and more.
Recommended reading: How To Make Money As A Digital Designer
9. Pet Sitter and Dog Walker
Pet sitters and dog walkers take care of pets while pet owners are away, such as on vacation or in the hospital. Some of the tasks include feeding, taking dogs for walks, and playing with them.
You might have pets come to your home or you can go to their owner’s place (this is something that is agreed upon beforehand). Dog walkers earn around $20 for every hour walking a dog. Looking after someone’s pet overnight can earn a person around $25-$100+ or even more each day.
I have personally paid a person to watch my dogs overnight in their home $100 a day. She was so wonderful too and my dogs loved her.
Now, with this job, you’re not working entirely alone, because you will be with pets. But, they can be great friends and companions!
Rover is a company you can sign up with and list your dog walking and pet sitting services.
10. House Cleaner
House cleaners make sure homes and businesses are nice and clean. They might work alone or with a small group. They can earn between $25 to $50 an hour for cleaning for others.
You can work for a cleaning company, but you’ll likely make more money if you have your own business.
Starting this kind of business isn’t expensive because you likely already have the cleaning supplies you need. You can advertise your services on Facebook, tell your friends and family, or make an account on Care.com.
11. Transcriptionist
An online transcriptionist’s main task is to listen to video or audio files and then type out everything that is being said, a process known as transcribing. The aim is to accurately write down what is heard, without any mistakes in spelling, grammar, or punctuation.
There are many different types of transcriptionists as well – legal, general, and medical transcriptionists.
This job requires strong typing and listening skills, and you can work from home all by yourself.
Online transcriptionists earn around $15 to $30 per hour on average, with new transcribers on the lower end of that.
A helpful free resource to take is FREE Workshop: Is a Career in Transcription Right for You? You’ll learn how to get started as a transcriptionist, how you can find transcription work, and more.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly
12. House Flipper
House flippers buy, renovate, and sell properties for a profit. This job involves managing renovation projects, and you can work alone or with a small crew.
House flipping is when someone buys a property at a lower price, fixes it up (like painting, redoing the kitchen, and improving the outside appearance), and then sells it for more money to make a profit. This is done to make a quick return on the investment.
Recommended reading: 10 Best Books on Flipping Houses To Make Money
13. Grocery Shopper
Grocery shoppers buy groceries for people like you and me, offering a helpful service for those who don’t have the time or can’t shop on their own. You’ll work on your own and talk to clients through an app on your phone.
One service you can easily sign up with to become a grocery shopper is Instacart. This is a popular site for people who want to make extra money by shopping for and delivering groceries.
Instacart shoppers make money from a mix of base pay, tips from customers, and sometimes bonuses or rewards (like for finishing orders during busy times).
You can sign up here to get started as a grocery shopper with Instacart.
Recommended reading: Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?
14. Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate marketers share products or services with their followers for a commission. You do this by placing a referral link on your website, blog, or social media (like Instagram). When people use that link to buy something, you then get a commission.
For example, if you share a link to a book on Amazon and someone buys it through your link, you make some money. Companies like Amazon want people like you to help them sell things, so they’re happy to work with you as it helps them.
If you get someone to sign up through your special link, the company gives you a commission for telling others about their product. It’s like a little thank-you for your help!
This is one of my favorite jobs where you work alone from home, and what I do full-time!
Click here to get Affiliate Marketing Tips – Free eBook.
15. Flea Market Flipper
Flea market flippers find underpriced items at flea markets, yard sales, and thrift stores, then resell them for a profit. This job requires a good eye for valuable items and the ability to research market value.
Finding items to resell may be one of the best jobs to work alone on this list because we all have things in our house we could probably sell. Plus, there are always things that you can buy for a low price and possibly resell for a profit.
If you are looking for work-alone jobs, this is a great one to look further into.
I recommend signing up for this great webinar, Turn Your Passion For Visiting Thrift Stores, Yard Sales & Flea Markets Into A Profitable Reselling Business In As Little As 14 Days, that will help you learn how to make money by flipping items as well.
16. Sell Printables on Etsy
Creating and selling digital printables on Etsy is a great way to work independently and earn money.
Making printables can also be a pretty hands-off job since you only have to create one digital file for each product, and you can sell it as many times as you like. It’s quite affordable to start because you only need a laptop or computer and an internet connection.
Printables are digital items that customers can download and print at home. They can include things like bridal shower games, grocery shopping checklists, budget planners, invitations, printable quotes for wall art, and patterns.
I recommend signing up for Free Workshop: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
17. Mechanic
Mechanics diagnose and repair vehicles, working independently or in small shops. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of automotive systems are important.
Being a mechanic is a job where you often work on your own. While they might work in a garage with other mechanics, they often have their own tasks to do. They need to be really careful and pay close attention to make sure everything gets fixed just right.
18. Dog Treat Baker
Do you really like dogs? If you do, here’s a way to work mainly alone and make an extra $500 to $1,000 or even more each month.
You don’t need to know how to bake beforehand, because you can learn this skill. You can make special treats like cupcakes, cookies, cakes, and more, all for dogs.
You can sign up for this free training workshop that shows how to start a dog treat bakery.
You can learn more at How I Make $4,000 Per Month Baking Dog Treats (With Zero Baking Experience!).
19. Amazon Seller
Selling items on Amazon is a job where you work alone (mostly) and don’t have to deal with customers face-to-face.
Even if you’re new to selling on Amazon, you can make money by selling household goods, books, electronics, and more.
If you’re interested in learning about starting an Amazon business, you can join this free training that will teach you how to sell products on Amazon and make around $100 to $500+ each day.
20. Stock Photo Photographer
Stock photo photographers work on their own, and this job can be done without talking to anyone for the most part. Almost all of the tasks can be done with just a camera and then uploading photos on a site.
Stock image sites are some of the most popular ways for photographers to sell their pictures. These are sites where customers can buy pictures for websites, TV shows, books, social media accounts, and more. There are stock photos that I have purchased within this blog post that you can take a look at to see an example.
One great thing about stock photo sites is that they can be a great form of passive income. You can take pictures, upload them, and earn money from an older photo for months or even years in the future. There is no need to talk to anyone as everything is online and mostly automated.
Some stock photo websites include Shutterstock, iStock, DepositPhotos, and Dreamstime.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
21. Social Media Manager
Social media managers post on social media accounts for businesses and their goal is to bring in new customers and help a business grow.
Social media managers may post a picture or a video of a product or the company, join in a viral trend to get more views (such as on TikTok), answer common questions from customers, and more.
This includes social media platforms such as TikTok, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Salary can vary, and this job can be done part-time or full-time.
22. Landscaper
A landscaper improves and maintains outdoor areas, such as by taking care of the lawn, planting flowers, or even renovating a whole outdoor area (such as to make it more enjoyable to sit outside and have company).
If you’re interested in jobs where you work alone outside, this is one to consider as you will be outdoors and working on your own a lot. Customers may talk to you occasionally, but you are mostly by yourself.
Landscapers work at houses, apartment complexes, businesses, or somewhere else.
23. Data Entry Clerk
Data entry clerks enter, update, and check information in databases or spreadsheets. They type information such as numbers and names into computers to keep things organized and recorded.
This job can sometimes be done remotely and alone, with minimal supervision or interaction with customers.
Data entry jobs typically pay around $15-$20 an hour.
24. Editor
Editors review and improve written content for clients and they usually work on their own as most of their time is spent editing content.
Their job is to read articles, blog posts, advertising, books, and more to make them better. They fix any mistakes in grammar or spelling and help the words flow smoothly.
Editors typically earn anywhere from $40-$60+ an hour.
25. Freelance Writer
Freelance writers write content for clients, such as blog posts, advertising, and more. Freelance writing jobs where you work by yourself are common as you’ll be given a topic to write about from the client, and when you are done you may be given some feedback (such as paragraphs to improve or add to). But, that is usually as much human interaction as you’ll get if you want.
You can find different writing jobs on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, or even find clients on your own.
I was a freelance writer for many years before switching to working full-time writing here on Making Sense of Cents. It is a great career path where you can work from home mostly by yourself.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs – (Start With No Experience!)
26. Translator
Translators convert written content from one language to another, requiring fluency in at least two languages. Freelance and remote opportunities are available.
If you know another language, you might be able to find a work-from-home job where you can earn money by reading books and translating them. Another option is to get paid for proofreading or editing translated books to ensure they read smoothly and accurately.
There are lots of places you can find translation jobs, such as UpWork, Babelcube, Today Translations, Ulatus, Fiverr, and more.
27. Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write and maintain computer software, often working alone on projects.
They use coding to tell computers what to do and create all sorts of things like apps, games, and websites.
28. Canva Template Designer
Creating and selling Canva templates online allows you to work alone.
A Canva template is like a ready-made design that you can use for things like making posters, Pinterest pins, ebooks, or presentations. It’s like having a helpful starting point if you’re not super good at designing things from scratch. Canva templates come with empty spaces where you can put in your own words and pictures and you can also change colors and fonts to make them just how you like. They’re really helpful for people who want their things to look nice without spending a lot of time on it.
Making and selling Canva templates can be a great way to earn extra money as you only need to create them once, and then you can sell them as many times as you like.
Recommended reading: How I Make $2,000+ Monthly Selling Canva Templates
29. Voice Over Actor
A voice-over actor is the person whose voice you hear but don’t see in YouTube videos, radio ads, educational videos, and more.
Voice-over actors many times work right from their own homes!
Voice actors don’t need experience for this job (eventually, it does help, yes). Instead, they need to have a voice that the company is looking for.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Voice Over Actor And Work From Anywhere
30. Truck Driver
Truck drivers are people who move things from one place to another. To do this job, truck drivers need a commercial driver’s license (CDL). This job often involves working by yourself for long hours.
The salary for a truck driver can depend on things like what kind of items they’re moving and the miles they have to drive. Usually, they can make between $45,000 and $75,000 or even more in a year.
31. UPS Driver
UPS drivers deliver packages to people’s homes and businesses. They do this mostly on their own, in their trucks by themselves.
UPS drivers make a good income and they earn about $30-$45 per hour or even more, depending on how many years they have worked at UPS and where they work.
32. Security Guard
Security guards protect property and/or people, and they usually work alone.
A security guard’s salary depends on things like where they work, how long they’ve been doing the job, and what exactly they have to do. Usually, they can make between $25,000 and $35,000 in a year.
33. Self-Storage Facility Owner
Self-storage facilities are where people store their belongings, like boxes of their mementos, vehicles, RVs, and more.
Owning a self-storage business can be a way to make money and run a business with low expenses, plus they typically only have a couple of employees.
Many of the times when I’ve been to a self-storage lot, it’s been just the owner or an employee of theirs working. There are almost no customers either.
Recommended reading: How To Invest In Self-Storage For Beginners
34. Laundromat Owner
Similar to a self-storage business, a laundromat typically does not have very many employees.
Running a laundromat can be a way to make money, with low costs, as most things are automated (the washer and dryer machines do all of the washing).
Recommended reading: Are Laundromats Profitable? How Much Do Laundromats Make?
35. Get Paid To Text
When getting paid to text, you will many times be talking to someone else, but it is all done through text messages.
Some jobs may include:
Text Therapy or Coach
Answering questions, such as if you are a mechanic, doctor, lawyer, veterinarian, home expert, appraiser, computer expert
Customer support
Recommended reading: 28 Ways To Get Paid To Text And Make Money
36. Survey Taker
Taking online surveys and answering questions for focus groups is not a full-time job, but it can be a way to make some extra money.
You share your thoughts and answer straightforward questions, and in return, you can receive cash or rewards such as Amazon gift cards.
The survey companies I recommend signing up for and the best-paying survey sites include:
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
Pinecone Research
Prize Rebel
User Interviews – These are the highest paying surveys with the average being around $60.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Paid Survey Sites To Make $100+ Per Month
37. Twitch Streamer
Twitch is a site where you can make money playing video games, talking online in a live stream, and more. A streamer may be able to make money from their own home and all alone. Yes, they do need to be live recording their life, but they are their own boss.
There are many ways to make money on Twitch such as with paid subscriptions, display ads, selling merchandise (like t-shirts and mugs), and more.
Some of the most successful Twitch streamers make hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars each year, but, it’s important to know that most don’t earn much at all.
Recommended reading: How Much Do Twitch Streamers Make?
38. Litter Cleanup Worker
If you own a business, it’s important to keep your place clean and tidy. Nobody likes to see trash lying around, right?
That’s why some business owners are happy to pay for someone to clean up before their business opens for the day. A clean area makes the place look nice and welcoming for customers.
This business can be started all alone and earnings on average are about $30 to $50 for every hour you work. It’s pretty simple too. You’ll just need a broom, a dustpan, and some tools to help you pick up litter easily. It’s almost like taking a stroll while you work! Plus, you can choose when you want to do it, so it can fit nicely into your schedule.
Recommended reading: How I Started A $650,000 Per Year Litter Cleanup Business
39. Google Rater
A Search Engine Evaluator, also known as a Google Rater, is a person who looks at websites and blogs and gives them a score based on how good and helpful they are for Google.
You don’t need to be a tech expert or have a fancy background for this job. Google actually wants regular people, just like you, to rate websites. Plus, you can do this in your own language. Google works in lots of different countries, so you can help out right from where you are.
Recommended reading: How To Become a Search Engine Evaluator
40. Actuary
An actuary is a financial expert who helps businesses figure out and manage their money-related risks, such as for insurance, pensions, and investments.
They use mathematics and statistics to forecast what might happen and help companies make smarter financial decisions.
Actuaries can earn a good salary, and as they get more experience and pass more exams, they can make even more money. Depending on where they work and how experienced they are, actuaries earn average salaries of anywhere between $70,000 to well over $100,000 each year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jobs Where You Work Alone
Here are answers to common questions about finding jobs where you work alone.
What are jobs with no interaction?What jobs allow me to work by myself?
Yes, there are jobs where you don’t need to talk to people a lot. For example, being a night shift security guard, a transcriptionist, or a stock photo photographer.
How can I work alone from home?
There are jobs where you can work alone at home such as being a blogger, a transcriptionist, or a computer programmer.
What are jobs where you work alone with no degree?
Many jobs don’t require bachelor’s or master’s degrees (a high school diploma will work for many on the list above) and offer the opportunity to work independently. Mowing lawns, painting houses, repairing cars, or walking dogs often don’t require formal education and focus more on skills and experience.
Which part-time jobs are best suited for solitary workers?
Many of the jobs in this blog post can be done part-time, such as any of the freelance jobs, house cleaning, dog walking, and taking surveys. That is one of the joys of many of the jobs above – you can choose your schedule.
What trade jobs can one perform independently?
Trade jobs that you can perform independently include carpentry, welding, or plumbing. These professions usually require specific skills or certifications but may offer opportunities to work alone.
Are there any tech jobs ideal for people who prefer to work alone?
Yes, there are tech jobs that can work well for people who want to work on their own such as web developers, software engineers, or data analysts. These roles usually involve solving problems and working independently, though there might be some instances where collaboration is needed from time to time.
What jobs can be done in isolation with no experience required?
Jobs such as house cleaning, taking surveys, and flea market flipping can be good places to start for entry-level jobs.
How can I find work-alone job opportunities near me?
To find work-alone job opportunities near you, try perusing local job boards, classified ads, or online sites like Indeed or LinkedIn. You can also network with people in your community or join online forums related to your interests to find jobs.
Jobs Where You Work Alone – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on jobs where you work alone.
These jobs are like a safe space for people who like being by themselves. It’s a place where you can really concentrate and do your own thing with low social interaction. Jobs where you work alone often appeal to introverts and individuals who require fewer distractions.
Jobs like writing, coding, and freelancing let you work on your own. Not everyone may like working alone, but for those who do, it can be a lot less stressful and overwhelming.
I have been working mostly on my own for years now, and I really love it!
Though the fictional Stars Hollow didn’t make the list, you’ll see the charming towns that might have inspired it.
Connecticut, with its diverse range of communities, offers a plethora of attractive options that suit various lifestyle needs.
When it comes to locking down the ideal location for you and yours, the choice can be dizzying. From coastal towns that exude maritime charm to bustling cities rich in cultural and recreational activities, Connecticut has something for everyone. This article takes a closer look at some of the best places to live in Connecticut, focusing on factors like quality of life, education, economic stability and more.
Population: 136,309
Average age: 37.9
Median household income: $99,791
Average commute time: 31.0 minutes
Walk score: 55
Studio average rent: $2,019
One-bedroom average rent: $2,618
Two-bedroom average rent: $3,498
Stamford has it all. From high-energy downtown life to the serenity of beachfront communities, Stamford’s strategic location near New York City makes it a popular spot for those who work in the Big Apple but want a more relaxed environment to call home.
Stamford’s economy is booming, thanks in part to a thriving financial sector and the presence of several Fortune 500 companies. On the leisure side, the city doesn’t disappoint. Between the Stamford Town Center mall, the Avon Theatre and the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, there’s never a dull moment.
Living in Stamford offers not just the perk of urban convenience but also opportunities for seaside relaxation. With beaches like Cove Island Park offering saltwater swimming and picnic spots, residents get to experience the best of both worlds. The public schools in Stamford are highly rated, making it an excellent choice for families. There’s also an assortment of housing options to fit different lifestyles—from modern apartments to colonial-style homes. The city’s efficient public transportation and close proximity to major highways make getting around a breeze.
Population: 120,5776
Average age: 32.9
Median household income: $37,477
Average commute time: 22.3 minutes
Walk score: 67
Studio average rent: $1,432
One-bedroom average rent: $1,613
Two-bedroom average rent: $1,705
Hartford somehow manages to offer an urban buzz in a friendly, neighborhood-like atmosphere. As one of the best places to live in Connecticut, Hartford is a hub for healthcare, education and insurance, hosting some of the largest companies in the industry. From historic sites like the Mark Twain House to the modern wonders of the Connecticut Science Center, the city offers a range of activities for all age groups. Foodies will find a growing culinary scene that rivals larger cities, while sports enthusiasts can catch a Hartford Yard Goats game at Dunkin’ Park.
Although the city possesses a bustling downtown, the many parks and green spaces provide ample room for relaxation and outdoor activities in peace. Bushnell Park, for instance, serves as the city’s green lung, with a carousel and plenty of space for picnics or jogs. For those looking to raise a family, Hartford offers a variety of public and private school options, and the nearby suburbs provide even more choices for residential living. With its proximity to other major cities like Boston and New York, Hartford makes for a convenient home base without the overwhelming bustle, cementing its status as one of Connecticut’s most desirable places to settle down.
Population: 62,396
Average age: 43.4
Median household income: $115,885
Average commute time: 30.4 minutes
One-bedroom average rent: $3,720
Two-bedroom average rent: $5,452
Greenwich is not just a name you’ll hear on Wall Street; it’s also one of the best places to live in Connecticut. Often celebrated for its high-end shopping districts and upscale neighborhoods, Greenwich offers an extraordinary quality of life just a stone’s throw away from New York City.
The city is a magnet for successful professionals and families, featuring top-tier public schools and a range of impressive real estate options, from sprawling estates to contemporary condos. For those who appreciate the finer things, the Greenwich Avenue shopping district is a stroll down luxury lane, boasting designer boutiques, art galleries and some of Connecticut’s best dining spots.
The allure of Greenwich isn’t just limited to its commercial and residential glamor. The city is equally rich in natural beauty and recreational activities. Topping the list are the pristine beaches along Long Island Sound, which provide the ideal backdrop for sailing, swimming or simply soaking up the sun. For those who love the outdoors, the city is home to a ton of parks and nature reserves, making it a splendid locale for hiking and bird-watching. Excellent public services, a low crime rate and community-centric events like the annual Greenwich International Film Festival, round out the city’s many merits.
Population: 135,081
Average age: 30.7
Median household income: $42,222
Average commute time: 22.9 minutes
Walk score: 68
Studio average rent: $1,745
One-bedroom average rent: $2,322
Two-bedroom average rent: $2,895
New Haven is frequently highlighted as one of the best places to live in Connecticut. Known worldwide as the home of Yale University, the city offers a rich intellectual climate without skimping on culture and recreational options. Whether you’re drawn by the scholarly atmosphere, the groundbreaking medical facilities or the economic opportunities in technology and healthcare, New Haven has something for everyone. Add in iconic spots like the historic Shubert Theatre and the culinary treasure trove that is Wooster Square, famous for its pizza, and you’ll see why many consider it a gem in the Constitution State.
Life in New Haven isn’t only about hitting the books or attending lectures. Residents here find plenty of room for leisure and outdoor fun. East Rock Park offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for hiking, while Lighthouse Point Park is preferred for beach outings and scenic picnics.
Population: 62,105
Average age: 41.0
Median household income: $149,641
Average commute time: 32.9 minutes
One-bedroom average rent: $2,200
Two-bedroom average rent: $2,065
When discussing the best places to live in Connecticut, Fairfield frequently makes the cut — and with good reason. Thanks to a strategic location along the Long Island Sound, this charming town seamlessly blends coastal living with suburban tranquility.
Fairfield University and Sacred Heart University lend the town an intellectual flair, adding an assortment of unique events and academic resources to the mix. Economically, Fairfield holds its own with a diverse job market in industries like healthcare, education and retail. As for leisure, from the historic Burr Mansion to the Fairfield Theater Company, there’s no shortage of arts and culture to indulge in.
Fairfield doesn’t skimp on the natural beauty either, boasting several pristine beaches and peaceful parks. Jennings Beach and Lake Mohegan are popular spots for swimming, picnicking and hiking, perfect for individuals and families alike. Speaking of families, the town’s public schools are highly rated, offering strong academic programs that make Fairfield an attractive place for parents seeking quality education for their children.
Population: 34,427
Average age: 44.0
Median household income: $140,420
Average commute time: 22.5 minutes
One-bedroom average rent: $1,450
Two-bedroom average rent: $2,575
Glastonbury is a picturesque town that is often cited among the best places to live in Connecticut. Located along the banks of the Connecticut River, Glastonbury is a hotspot for those who enjoy outdoor activities with a side of upscale suburban life. With a strong job market primarily in healthcare, education and insurance, the town provides a stable economic environment for professionals. When it comes to recreation, whether you’re a fan of farmers markets, antique shops or hiking trails, like those found in Case Mountain, Glastonbury doesn’t disappoint.
Beyond its recreational appeal, Glastonbury makes a lasting impression with its commitment to education. The public schools are among the best in the state, featuring comprehensive curriculums and a wide range of extracurricular activities. A tight-knit community spirit is palpable here, supported by various local events and a bustling town center where residents gather to shop, dine or simply catch up.
Population: 18,114
Average age: 50.8
Median household income: $60,139
Average commute time: 34.9 minutes
One-bedroom average rent: $1,800
Two-bedroom average rent: $2,650
Madison is a picturesque town that offers its residents the dual joys of beach life and a robust culture. From enjoying water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding to exploring the town’s many boutique shops and cafes, Madison has a little something for everyone. And don’t overlook the cultural richness here: Places like the Scranton Library and the Madison Art Cinemas add layers of activity and entertainment to community life.
Madison also brings practical advantages to the table. Education is a strong suit, with public schools that rank among the top in the state, offering a variety of advanced placement courses and extracurricular activities. From the historic district to the more modern parts of town, the housing market is diverse, providing plentiful options for different lifestyle needs.
Population: 7,228
Average age: 45.8
Median household income: $129,919
Average commute time: 36 minutes
One-bedroom average rent: $1,850
Two-bedroom average rent: $1,951
If you’re on the hunt for a place that combines New England charm with an air of sophistication, Ridgefield should undoubtedly be on your list of the best places to live in Connecticut. Located near the New York state line, Ridgefield has long been a favored destination for those who desire a serene living environment without sacrificing easy access to the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s the kind of place where historic homes, top-notch schools and swanky boutiques coexist harmoniously. The Ridgefield Playhouse and the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum inject a dose of culture into the community.
When it comes to recreation, Ridgefield does not disappoint. Open spaces like Bennett’s Pond State Park and the Ridgefield Rail Trail offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking and nature observation. Families, in particular, find Ridgefield a prime location for settling down, thanks to an excellent public school system and myriad of youth-oriented activities.
Population: 86,759
Average age: 38.9
Median household income: $74,600
Average commute time: 28.6 minutes
Walk score: 37
Studio average rent: $1,575
One-bedroom average rent: $2,202
Two-bedroom average rent: $2,925
Positioned along the New York-Connecticut border, Danbury stands as a diverse and bustling city, frequently highlighted as one of the best places to live in Connecticut. Known as ‘Hat City’ for its once flourishing hat industry, Danbury is now a hub of commercial activity thanks to Danbury Fair Mall, a variety of restaurants and a lively downtown area.
The city’s employment landscape is as diverse as its population, with opportunities spanning from healthcare to retail to manufacturing and more. Highlights like the Danbury Music Centre and the Danbury Railway Museum add a unique touch to city life, appealing to residents of all ages.
Beyond its commercial and cultural assets, Danbury provides residents with a ton of opportunities to get their hearts pumping. Candlewood Lake, the largest lake in Connecticut, provides a fantastic backdrop for boating, fishing and kicking back under the sun. The city is also home to several parks and trails, perfect for all outdoorsy types. Education is well-covered, too, with public and private schools offering challenging curriculums and well-supported extracurricular programs. Whether you’re interested in renting a modern apartment downtown or purchasing a traditional home in one of its quieter neighborhoods, there’s a place in Danbury for you.
Population: 50,541
Average age: 44.3
Median household income: $97,951
Average commute time: 25.5 minutes
Walk score: 34
Studio average rent: $1,945
One-bedroom average rent: $2,262
Two-bedroom average rent: $3,045
Boasting 17 miles of coastline along Long Island Sound, Milford brings together the best of seaside living and suburban comfort, easily making it one of the best places to live in Connecticut. This small city with a big heart offers a ton of activities that keep residents engaged year-round. Whether you’re a beach enthusiast, a shopping addict or someone who loves exploring historical sites like the Eells-Stow House, Milford has you covered. The city’s downtown area is a blend of old-school charm and modernity, filled with boutique stores, art galleries and eateries that offer a delightful mix of local and international cuisine.
When it comes to education, Milford doesn’t fall short. The city has excellent public and private schools that make it an attractive destination for families. Moreover, Milford’s well-planned residential areas offer an array of housing options, from cozy beachfront cottages to more expansive homes further inland.
On the employment front, Milford boasts a balanced job market with opportunities in healthcare, education and retail, just to name a few. A sense of community is palpable here, nurtured through yearly events like the Oyster Festival and a strong network of local organizations.
Your Connecticut community is waiting
After exploring a variety of towns and cities, it’s clear that the list of the best places to live in Connecticut is expansive and diverse. Whether you’re seeking the cosmopolitan allure of a bustling city, the tranquil ambiance of a coastal town or the balanced offerings of a suburban community, Connecticut provides a compelling list of options.
Each town featured above offers its unique blend of attributes, from excellent schools and flourishing job markets to open spaces that keep you engaged. Choosing where to live is a personal decision, but one thing is certain: in Connecticut, you’re spoiled for choice.
Ready to find the perfect Connecticut apartment for you? Start your search at Rent.
Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
1
T&C Favorite
Brooklinen Luxury Sateen 4 Piece Sheet Set
1
T&C Favorite
Brooklinen Luxury Sateen 4 Piece Sheet Set
2
Linen Upgrade
Cozy Earth Light Grey Waffle Bath Towel Bundle
2
Linen Upgrade
Cozy Earth Light Grey Waffle Bath Towel Bundle
This bundle of waffle towels has Oprah’s stamp of approval—so right off the bat you know how good they are. Made of a cotton and bamboo blend, these elevated towels are lightweight yet ultra-absorbent and supremely soft against the skin. T&C‘s Roxanne Adamiyatt is also a fan, noting that the hand towels “don’t get drenched and matted” and “haven’t warped or lost their shape” after several washes.
More: Oprah’s Favorite Things You Can Buy on Amazon Right Now
3
Crystal Glassware
Lenox Tuscany Classics 4-piece Bordeaux Glass Set
3
Crystal Glassware
Lenox Tuscany Classics 4-piece Bordeaux Glass Set
Now 28% Off
Help them raise a glass to their new home with this elegant crystal set from Lenox’s Tuscany Collection. The glasses are made of high-quality non-leaded European crystal (that also happen to be dishwasher safe!) and also available as champagne flutes, martini glasses, beer glasses, and more.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
4
Sleek Food Containers
Caraway Glass Food Storage Set
4
Sleek Food Containers
Caraway Glass Food Storage Set
Give them a reason to finally toss all those food containers with missing lids! Featuring non-stick ceramic coated glass bodies, this food container set keeps leftovers fresh and organized while also looking great in the fridge. Better still, the larger containers are microwave, oven, refrigerator, and freezer safe.
As someone who’s recently moved, I can vouch for how game-changing these food containers are. Heating up leftovers in the oven is a cinch and I love how it’s also sold with a storage set that keeps my kitchen cabinets neat and tidy when not in use.
5
Cutlery Essentials
Material Knife Trio + Stand (Almost Black/White Ash)
5
Cutlery Essentials
Material Knife Trio + Stand (Almost Black/White Ash)
A good set of knives can make or break a cooking experience and this Material trio is beyond. The blades are crafted with three layers of Japanese stainless steel and high carbon, making them a breeze to chop and slice with. It also comes with a smart magnetic block that holds up to eight knives.
6
Charging Catchall Station
Courant Catch:3
6
Charging Catchall Station
Courant Catch:3
This is more than just a sleek catchall tray that keeps your tabletops organized and mess-free. It’s also a charger to ensure your phone never runs out of juice. Game-changing.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
7
Chic Coffee Table Book
Assouline Publishing Amalfi Coast
7
Chic Coffee Table Book
Assouline Publishing Amalfi Coast
A travel-inspired coffee table book by luxury publisher Assouline will be a welcome addition to any stack. We love this Amalfi-themed one, but you have the option to choose from a variety of destinations, including Aspen, Mykonos, and St. Tropez.
8
Sentimental Gift
Vienrose Large Photo Album
8
Sentimental Gift
Vienrose Large Photo Album
Now 22% Off
It’s there, at their new home where they’ll be making new memories. Why not help them document all the good times with a good ole fashioned scrapbook that they can look back at for years to come?
9
Elegant Aromatherapy
Vitruvi Stone Diffuser
9
Elegant Aromatherapy
Vitruvi Stone Diffuser
Help them make their new digs more inviting with a refined essential oil diffuser that doubles as a stylish decor accent.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
10
Luxe Home Cleaner
Caldrea Multi-Surface Countertop Spray Cleaner
10
Luxe Home Cleaner
Caldrea Multi-Surface Countertop Spray Cleaner
Let’s face it: Doing home chores is anything but glamorous. But when you wash up with Caldrea’s plant-based products featuring their latest Orange Blossom fragrance? It makes the task oh-so-more enjoyable—and leaves the kitchen sparkling with fresh-scented finish.
11
Cozy Throw
BOURINA Throw Blanket
11
Cozy Throw
BOURINA Throw Blanket
Now 20% Off
A cuddly blanket to wrap yourself in while reading or watching TV on the sofa? Now who wouldn’t appreciate that as a housewarming gift?
12
Kitchen Do-It-All
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven
12
Kitchen Do-It-All
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven
Now 20% Off
Everyone needs a Le Creuset dutch oven in their kitchen. There I said it. This do-it-all cast iron pot can cook everything from the heartiest of stews and soups to beautifully braised meats and warm, fluffy sourdough loaves. And the fact that it comes in an endless array of hues? Well that makes the Le Creuset infinitely more gift-worthy.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
13
State-of-the-Art Coffee Machine
Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima by De’Longhi
13
State-of-the-Art Coffee Machine
Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima by De’Longhi
If you’re looking to splurge, the newest Nespresso machine brews one mean cup of a joe at a tap of a button. It can make a wide variety of your favorite coffees, ranging from cappuccinos and lattes to iced coffees and cold brews in six different sizes, but the pièce de résistance? It’s tricked out with an integrated milk frother that makes the foamiest, melt-in-your-mouth beverages. That’s enough reason to add to cart!
Or perhaps they’re more of drip-filter-coffee-kind-of-person? This retro style machine prepares up to 10 cups of equally as delicious rich brews in its glass carafe. And just look how damn chic the body is! Who wouldn’t want that on their countertop?
15
Heated Coffee Mug
Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2
15
Heated Coffee Mug
Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2
Now 18% Off
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
16
On-Theme Candle
Homesick New Home Scented Candle
16
On-Theme Candle
Homesick New Home Scented Candle
Now 33% Off
Nothing says “welcome home” like a candle made for a new home! So what exactly are the notes that make up this “new home” scent? No, it’s not fresh paint; it’s a blend of jasmine, cedarwood, lime, sandalwood, oakmoss, and musk that fills any room with the most pleasantly clean aroma.
17
Indoor Fireplace
colsen Tabletop Ethanol Fireplace
17
Indoor Fireplace
colsen Tabletop Ethanol Fireplace
Now 60% Off
If they don’t have already have a fireplace, give them the next best thing: a portable tabletop fireplace that will add instant warmth and ambience to their new home.
18
Personal Blender
NutriBullet Blender
18
Personal Blender
NutriBullet Blender
Now 14% Off
A compact blender is the perfect kitchen appliance gift for the loved one who’s just moved into an apartment. Space-saving and easy-to-use, the NutriBullet can whip up smoothies, sauces, salad dressings, and more in a jiffy.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
19
For the Lawn
Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller
19
For the Lawn
Rachio 3: 8 Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller
Now 28% Off
For the new homeowners with a yard, this smart sprinkler system takes the guesswork out of watering your plants and greenery by allowing you to set automated schedules straight from your phone. Also cool: The patented weather intelligence feature that saves water by automatically skipping unnecessary watering.
20
Elevated Coasters
Folkulture Beaded Coasters
20
Elevated Coasters
Folkulture Beaded Coasters
Now 20% Off
These beaded evil-eye coasters are cute to look at and will actually make them want to use coasters.
Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more.
As an independent landlord, I’ve learned the ups and downs of landlording, and the tips and hacks I’ve discovered are musts for novice and seasoned landlords. The rental space is crowded, and it can be hard to compete with big corporate landlords. When I had my first rental at age 20, I was so excited to have my first tenant. However, first, to fill that vacancy, I needed to market my property and figure out the best channel for that marketing. That learning curve can be steep, and the ROI of your investment property depends on finding a great tenant as quickly as possible. I have some tried and true tips that will help you secure a great renter, and that starts with a solid online marketing strategy.
Syndicating Property Listing – Post Once
With the click of a button, your property listing can be posted on dozens of websites – this is marketing syndication. It saves a tremendous amount of time you would’ve spent individually making a listing on major sites. Save that time for flyers and yard signs, which are still viable and essential offline marketing tactics. We all know that time is of the essence as a landlord. Having your listing posted to Zillow, Rent.com, Apartments.com, and many more is truly the best way to acquire a higher number of leads, and having the ability for that to happen automatically is vital.
Furthermore, it’s essential to recognize the advertising doesn’t have to stop at just these sites. Social media is another excellent way to market your property online. Facebook and Craigslist are great options to increase your marketing reach. Younger generations love the option of social media as they can quickly scroll through the listings on their phones, find, and apply to properties to rent all on their device.
Stand Out From the Big Guys
Now you know where and how to post, that is the easy part, the hard part is knowing what to post. One common question we get from our landlords is, “How do I write a great property description?” Your goal is to differentiate yourself not only from the big guys but from any other rentals in your area as well. That means your photos, description, amenities, and policies need to stand out.
Photos
There is no doubt that your photos will be the first thing that your prospects check out. We live a superficial world, and this will be your properties first impression, so don’t ruin it with bad photos. There isn’t any excuse for bad photos. Smartphones take high-quality images, so often there isn’t a need for a professional photographer. Make sure you have good light, the rental is clean and mess-free. Aim to tell a visual story with your photos. If prospects like what they see, they will keep inquiring.
Amenities and Policies
It may seem hard to compete with large apartment complexes when it comes to amenities. The key is to identify your unique amenities as an independent landlord and speak to those. Renting has become more of a long-term housing option for many generations, that means their needs and wants for housing have changed as well. Many will want pets, as an independent landlord, you can be more flexible with your policies and may be able to charge a premium.
You may want to consider shorter or longer-term leases as well. Offering a month to month or short-term leases can be a great option to stand out, and again allow you to charge a premium. There is high demand for these types of rentals, and with a streamlined, online rental process, filing vacancies doesn’t have to be a time-consuming activity that cuts into your bottom line.
It’s All About the Leads
Now, you have great photos, have nailed the amenities, and syndicated your property and it is posted on all the listing sites. What’s next? The leads should start pouring in. Here at TurboTenant, we see an average of 22 leads per property. Getting a significant amount of leads will enable you to choose from a large pool of tenants. While this might seem overwhelming, it will help you fill your vacancy faster. You can quickly eliminate tenants who have red flags after you screen them with a background check, credit, and eviction report – after that, you can find the one you want to fill your property through more soft data. For example, you could meet with them in-person to see if they would be a good fit for your property, look at their social media, or meet with them to get coffee. The best method for choosing a tenant is always a combination of quantitative and qualitative data, as well as abiding by the Federal Fair Housing Act.
Becoming an independent landlord is a great investment strategy, and now is an incredibly opportune time to invest. With the right strategy and software, the path to a successful landlord can be smooth, seamless, and streamlined.
Northwestern Mutual doubles down on commitment in the fight against childhood cancer, reignites social media #LemonTopChallenge for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Company announces additional major investments toward cancer research and scholarships and enacts local activations MILWAUKEE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Every day, more than 1,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with childhood cancer. Today Northwestern … [Read more…]
Congratulations! You’re officially an adult. Turning 18 opens a world of possibilities and freedom, but it also comes with additional responsibilities. One important responsibility to start thinking about is building your credit profile.
Credit can be a critical resource. A good credit score helps you get approved for loans and credit cards. It also helps reduce the expense associated with your debts, as you’re more likely to get approved for lower interest rates if your credit is better.
Your credit score and history can also help—or hinder—you when you’re applying for certain types of employment, a new apartment, utilities, or auto insurance. Find out more about credit and how to build credit at 18 in the guide below.
How to Start Building Credit at 18
1. Learn How Credit Works 2. Monitor Your Credit Score and Reports 3. Sign Up for ExtraCredit 4. Become an Authorized User 5. Get a Secured Credit Card 6. Apply for a Credit Builder Loan 7. Understand How Student Loans Can Help Your Credit 8. Don’t Try to Overdo It 9. Make a Budget and Stick to It
1. Learn How Credit Works
You know that knowledge is power, and understanding how to get credit and how it all works can make a big difference. Here are a few basics.
Your Credit Score
There are multiple scoring models, but they all work to provide a numerical score that tells lenders how likely you are to pay back your debts. Higher credit scores are more attractive to lenders and creditors. Five main factors influence your score:
Your Credit Report
Your credit reports are maintained by three major credit bureaus—Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. They contain data on your current and past debts, payment history, residential history, and other information about your credit history. This data is supplied by lenders, creditors, and businesses where you have accounts. The information on these reports is fed into the credit scoring models to determine your credit score.
Here’s where it starts getting complex. The information on those reports isn’t always the same. Some businesses and lenders only report to one or two of the credit bureaus. Some don’t report to any.
So, your credit report can be a little different with each of the bureaus. That means your credit score can also vary depending on which report and scoring model is being used.
2. Monitor Your Credit Score and Reports
Once you understand some basics about credit, you should take a look at your own credit reports. Monitoring your credit is one of the best ways to learn what will positively or negatively impact your scores. It also helps you catch inaccuracies or signs of identity theft sooner. Is there an account on your report that’s not yours? It could be bringing your score down even before you learn how to start building credit! If you find inaccurate negative information on your credit report, you can challenge it.
There are a few ways to check your credit reports.
AnnualCreditReport: You can request one report per year from each of the three bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. The bureaus are allowing you to request your reports weekly due to the effects of coronavirus through April 2022.
Credit Report Card: You can also get information about your credit reports via the free Credit Report Card at Credit.com. This is a breakdown of how you’re doing with each of the five major factors that impact your credit score. Your personal Credit Report Card can help you understand where you might need to work to positively impact your credit.
ExtraCredit: If you’re really serious about understanding your credit reports and scores, sign up for ExtraCredit. The Track It feature lets you see 28 of your FICO® scores and credit reports from all three credit bureaus. These scores are ones that lenders look at when making approval decisions.
ExtraCredit does more than just show you your credit scores. Have you recently started paying rent or utilities? The Build It feature lets you add them as tradelines with the TransUnion and Equifax credit bureaus. That means you’ll get credit for bills you’re already paying—building your credit profile each month that you pay those bills.
This is important, because rent and utility payments don’t usually show up on credit reports. That’s simply because utility companies and landlords don’t tend to bother to report them. ExtraCredit helps you ensure you’re getting credit for those on-time payments anyway.
4. Become an Authorized User
If a friend or family member has a credit card and is an account holder in good standing—meaning they pay their bills on time—ask if they’ll add you as an authorized user. Make sure that their credit card company reports to the credit bureaus for authorized users first or this is a pointless exercise.
You don’t even need a card or to use their account. If the credit card company reports on authorized users, you’ll get their on-time payments posted to your credit reports if your friend or family member makes them.
If you’re looking for how to start building credit at 18, this can be a quick method. However, it does come with some potential risk. If that person doesn’t pay on time or runs up their credit card balance, your credit score could suffer from the negative reports too.
5. Get a Starter Credit Card
For those who want to know how to start credit building without someone else, a secured credit card might be a good place to start. Some credit card companies also offer unsecured credit cards for those with no credit. These tend to have low credit limits and may have high interest rates.
If you can’t find an unsecured credit card, though, a secured card is much easier to get in general. You have to secure it with a deposit—typically in the amount of the credit limit. For example, if you put down a $250 security deposit, your initial credit limit is $250.
You build credit by using the card and paying the bill on time each month. Make sure you opt for a credit card that reports to all three of the bureaus to maximize the benefits to your credit history. Usually after a certain number of timely payments, you get your security deposit back and may even be eligible for an increase in credit limit.
Two options you might consider are the OpenSky Secured Visa and UNITY Visa Secured card.
OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
No credit check to apply and find out instantly if you are approved
OpenSky gives everyone an opportunity to improve their credit with an 85% average approval rate for the past 5 years
Get considered for a credit line increase after 6 months, with no additional deposit required
You could be eligible for the OpenSky Gold Unsecured Card after as few as 6 months
Reports to all 3 major credit bureaus monthly, unlike a prepaid or debit card. Easy application, apply in less than 5 minutes right from your mobile device
View your FICO® Score through your OpenSky account, an easy way to stay on top of your credit
Nearly half of OpenSky cardholders who make on-time payments improve their FICO score 30+ points in the first 3 months
Your refundable* deposit, as low as $200, becomes your OpenSky Visa credit limit
Offer flexible payment due dates which allow you to choose any available due date that fits your payment schedule
*View the cardholder agreement
UNITY® Visa Secured Credit Card – The Comeback Card™
Unlike your Prepaid Card, UNITY Visa secured card can help you build your credit. Apply online in less than 5 minutes, and you could be approved today!
No Minimum Credit Score required; low fixed interest rate of 17.99%; Fully refundable FDIC security deposit* required at time of application; if you have a min of $250 to deposit immediately, you can start now!
No application fee or penalty rate
Monthly reporting to all 3 major credit bureaus
24/7 online access to your account
*See the Cardholder Agreement for more details.
6. Apply for a Credit Builder Loan
Remember that credit mix is important to your credit score. That means you can’t just have one type of credit—such as a credit card—for maximum impact. You may also want an installment loan on your account.
A credit builder loan is one way to get an installment account on your credit history. These work like a traditional loan in reverse: if you’re approved, your funds get placed in a secured certificate of deposit and are given to you after you’ve paid off the loan.
>> Read our Review of Self Credit Builder Accounts
As you pay the loan as agreed, you’ll enjoy the benefit of positive payment history building on your credit report. Once you pay off the loan, the savings account is unlocked and you gain access to the money.
7. Understand How Student Loans Can Help Your Credit
If you have a student loan in your name, you may already have an installment loan on your credit history. This is true whether your parents acted as guarantors or cosigners or not, but it’s not true if your parent simply took the loan out for you. In that case, the lender would only report on your parent’s credit history.
As with any type of debt, student loans can help you start building credit if you pay them on time. So make sure you keep up with your loan status. If you use options such as deferment—especially during COVID-19—keep an eye on your credit report. Make sure your lender doesn’t report you as paying late when you’re within an agreed-upon deferment period.
8. Don’t Try to Overdo It
Building credit is a marathon, not a 100-yard dash. While some actions can positively impact your credit quickly, as a young person you’re unlikely to have a super robust credit history in just a few months.
Take your time and don’t try to engage in every credit-building tactic at once. You certainly don’t want to max out your debt in an effort to build credit. That could leave you unable to make your payments, which tanks your credit score before you have time to really build it.
9. Make a Budget and Stick to It
Finally, make a budget and stick to it. Spend what you can afford, and don’t take on debts you can’t pay fairly easily. You have years to continue building your credit, and a history of smart decisions and timely payments is one of the best things for your score long-term.
Start Building Credit Now
Building your credit at 18 is possible. It just takes time, commitment to making smart money decisions and an understanding of how credit works.