To rent an apartment, the credit score needed generally falls within a range depending on the landlord, location, and type of apartment:
- Most landlords and property managers prefer a credit score of at least 620 to 650 for approval
- For luxury or corporate-managed apartments, a higher score of 650 to 700+ is often required
- Private landlords may accept scores as low as 600 to 650 , especially if you have strong income and good rental history
- Low-income or subsidized housing may have no strict minimum, often accepting scores around 580+
- A "good" credit score, typically between 670 and 739 , increases your chances of approval and better lease terms
- Scores below 600 are considered poor and may require additional measures such as a co-signer, higher deposit, or proof of income
There is no universal minimum credit score, and landlords also consider income, rental history, and references alongside credit scores
. In competitive rental markets, higher scores are favored, while some private landlords may be more flexible
. In summary, aiming for a credit score of at least 620 to 670 will improve your chances of renting an apartment, but requirements vary widely by landlord and location