I'm sorry to hear it's high for some. I paid $900 for rent + roughly $200 for BGE/monthly & $150 for water / 3 months. Other than that, I save my money, don't overspend, have 3 apps myself (2 others from friends), used blankets & space heater in winter & oscillating fans in summer (unit ability for window A/C.) Older building, however comms w/ landlord allows for upgrades at no addtl cost to renter (me.) 2bdrm, 1.5 bath, full basement & kitchen. Not Paradise, but it'll do.