A flight attendant’s job can be an exciting and rewarding one. However, it comes with some challenges, especially while trying to find affordable housing. With travel schedules, varied locations, and often little time at home, finding a place that fits your lifestyle and budget can be difficult.
In this post, let’s talk about how to afford housing as a flight attendant and how one can budget, obtain government assistance, and even find cheaper houses near big airports.
What is the Cost of Housing for Flight Attendants?
According to reports, the average cost of renting an apartment in the United States in 2024 was around $1,713 per month. The cost of housing can vary significantly depending on your base city and the surrounding market. Major metropolitan areas like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles tend to have high housing costs. However, flight attendants often live in smaller cities or suburbs to reduce living expenses, as these areas may offer more affordable options.
Additionally, some flight attendants opt for short-term rental arrangements due to their unpredictable schedules. This flexibility can help mitigate the need for long-term contracts or large security deposits. Understanding the average housing costs in your base city and travel destinations is a crucial first step in determining where and how you can afford housing.
Read related blog: How to Afford an Apartment
Setting a Realistic Budget for Housing
Flight attendants typically don’t have a regular 9-to-5 schedule, so they must be strategic about their budget. Setting a realistic budget is key to ensuring you can afford rent or a mortgage while managing other expenses, such as travel-related costs and insurance.
Here are some tips for setting a housing budget:
- Factor in your monthly income: Consider your salary, tips, per day allowances, and other income sources.
- Allocate a percentage for housing: Ideally, no more than 30% of your income should go toward housing. Since flight attendants have varying schedules, this might be more flexible but try to keep this percentage manageable.
- Account for fluctuating costs: Be mindful of potential variations in expenses, especially when considering transportation costs to and from airports or extra living costs for layovers in high-expense cities.
Government Assistance Programs for Housing
Like many other workers, flight attendants may be eligible for government programs that can help with housing costs. These programs are designed to support low- and moderate-income individuals in finding affordable housing, even in high-demand areas.
Some options to explore include:
- Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8): This program provides rental assistance for low-income individuals, helping them afford housing in the private market.
- Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Loans: If you’re looking to buy a home, the FHA offers home loans with lower down payments and more flexible credit requirements. This can be a helpful option for flight attendants with irregular incomes.
Research the specific eligibility requirements for these programs in your state or city.
Tips for Saving Money on Rent or Mortgage
Reducing housing costs doesn’t always mean downsizing; there are many creative ways to save money on rent or mortgage payments. Here are some practical tips:
- House hacking: Consider renting a spare room or subletting a part of your home to generate additional income. This can offset your rent or mortgage costs.
- Negotiate rent: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with landlords. If you’re willing to sign a longer-term lease or pay several months upfront, you might be able to secure a lower rent.
- Shop around for mortgage rates: If you’re buying a home, take the time to compare mortgage rates from different lenders to find the best deal. A slight reduction in your interest rate can save you thousands in the long run.
Read related blog: How to Save Money While Renting
Finding Affordable Housing Near Major Airports
One of the challenges flight attendants face is finding housing close to their base airport. Proximity ensures timely arrivals, but living near a major airport can be costly. Fortunately, there are ways to find affordable options:
- Consider nearby suburbs: Instead of living in downtown areas, explore neighborhoods or towns surrounding the airport. These areas are often more affordable but still provide easy access to the airport.
- Public transportation: If you’re willing to commute further, look for places with good public transportation links to the airport. This can help you save on parking and reduce the overall cost of living.
- Temporary housing: For those on temporary assignments, looking for short-term rentals near the airport may be a cost-effective option.
The Importance of Location in Affordable Housing
When choosing where to live, location is more important than price. Proximity to work (i.e., the airport), cost of living in the area, and access to public transportation or amenities, play a critical role in determining whether a place is affordable in the long run.
The best locations for flight attendants balance affordability, convenience, and lifestyle. If you frequently travel to specific cities or countries, prioritize housing near an airport hub that serves as your airline’s layover or base station.
How to Negotiate Rent or Mortgage Prices
Negotiating rent or a mortgage rate might seem intimidating, but it’s often possible to secure a better deal by being proactive:
- Offer a longer lease term: Many landlords are more willing to negotiate rent for tenants willing to sign longer leases (6-12 months).
- Show your reliability: Flight attendants with steady, reliable incomes are attractive tenants, so provide proof of income, employment stability, and a good credit history.
- Discuss your travel schedule: If you’re not home frequently, use this as leverage to negotiate a lower rent or fewer responsibilities related to the property (e.g., maintenance or utilities).
Creative Solutions for Reducing Housing Expenses
Consider unconventional options for reducing your housing expenses:
- Roommates: Sharing your space with a roommate can significantly lower rent and utility costs.
- Co-living spaces: These are becoming increasingly popular in cities with high housing costs. Co-living offers a more affordable way to live with shared resources and community-driven support.
- Travel accommodations: If you have long layovers, consider using budget accommodations or crash pads (short-term rental spaces for flight attendants) as a temporary housing solution.
Read related blog: Top Financial Strategies for Single Parents or Individuals on a Tight Budget
How Beem Can Help With Housing Expenses
Beem is a financial platform that assists flight attendants in managing housing costs by offering flexible financial products and services. Whether it’s helping to pay for housing during layovers or offering financial advice on managing housing expenses, Beem provides tailored solutions that can help flight attendants balance their housing budgets.
Conclusion
Living as a flight attendant doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the quality of your home. Setting a realistic budget, exploring housing assistance programs, and being creative with your living situation can make housing more affordable while maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle. With tools like Beem to help with financial management, housing costs don’t need to be a source of stress. Download the app here.
FAQs on How to Afford Housing as a Flight Attendant
What are the average housing costs for flight attendants in the US?
The housing costs for flight attendants vary widely depending on the city, but rent typically ranges from $1,200 to $3,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in larger cities.
How can I set a realistic budget for housing as a flight attendant?
Start by calculating your income, factoring in your travel allowances, and setting aside no more than 30% for housing costs. Look at your base city’s typical rent or mortgage payments to estimate costs.
What are some affordable housing options near major airports?
Suburbs or areas outside city centers are more affordable and offer easy access to major airports. Public transit can also help reduce the costs associated with commuting.
Are there government programs that help with housing costs?
Programs like Section 8 and FHA loans may assist low- and moderate-income flight attendants.
What are some tips for saving money on rent or mortgage?
Consider negotiating rent, renting out a room, or exploring house hacking. If buying, compare mortgage rates from different lenders.
How does Beem assist with managing housing expenses?
Beem offers financial services that help flight attendants manage housing expenses more effectively by providing budgeting tools, flexible payment options, and financial advice.
