The monthly contract rent plus the estimated average monthly cost of utilities (electricity, gas, water, sewage) and fuels (oil, coal, wood, etc.) if these are paid by the renter in addition to rent.
Provides a more comprehensive measure of the true monthly cost of renting, as it includes utilities that are often a significant expense. It offers a more accurate picture of the housing burden for renters.
Specific Relevance for Professionals:
Marketers
Essential for businesses offering services to renters where total housing cost is a factor (e.g., budgeting tools, energy-saving products). Also useful for apartment complexes to highlight "all-inclusive" rent vs. separate utilities.
Researchers
Fundamental for studying actual housing affordability for renters, as it accounts for both rent and utility costs, providing a more complete picture of living expenses.
Consultants
Crucial for real estate investment firms and property managers assessing the true cost of living in a rental market, and for advising clients on utility cost impacts on tenant satisfaction.
Public Policy Workers
Paramount for informing housing affordability policies, rental assistance programs, and understanding the total economic burden of renting on households, including utility expenses.