First apartment checklist for young adults

Moving into your first apartment is a major milestone that comes with exciting experiences and new responsibilities. Having a first apartment checklist can guide you through all the to-dos to make getting started much easier.

To ensure you have everything you need to thrive in your new space from day one, include:

• Technology for work, entertainment, and staying connected
• Home necessities like kitchen appliances, bedroom furniture, and storage solutions
• Utilities your apartment doesn’t set up for you, such as electricity and gas
• Add-ons to make the place your own

From reliable Wi-Fi setups and bedroom must-haves to extras like smart-home gadgets, there’s a lot to consider for your new space.

To make your move as hassle-free as possible, use this tech-centric checklist of first apartment essentials to prioritize what to set up while you make moving arrangements.

1. Set up your tech and utilities before move-in

The first piece of advice? Prepare. The more utilities you can set up ahead of time, the smoother your move-in will be. As soon as you sign your lease—and confirm what’s included—start scheduling essential services.

Home internet

These days, ultra-fast home internet is essential—especially if you work or study from home. Even if you don’t need a school or remote work setup, a lightning-fast connection makes entertainment and everyday life more convenient.

While some rental agreements include internet, others leave Wi-Fi up to you. In that case, consider several factors, including:

• Building age – Older apartment buildings made of brick or concrete can block Wi-Fi signals. For more stable internet service, experiment with different router placements, add Wi-Fi extenders, or use a wired connection.
• Cable type – Buildings fitted with old-school copper cable may not deliver the speed or bandwidth you need. Fiber optic cables offer faster, more reliable internet, so try to choose a building that supports fiber optic internet. This technology transmits data with light rather than electrical signals to deliver high performance.
• Location – Rural areas might have fewer internet options and slower speeds than urban areas due to infrastructure. Living in a more densely populated area can improve your connectivity.

Once you’ve explored all your options, consider installation. Many internet providers offer self-installation kits and professional installation. If you choose self-installation, the AT&T Smart Home Manager app can guide you through the setup process.

Phone plan

In addition to home Wi-Fi, you’ll need your own high-speed wireless phone plan—especially if you were on your parents’ plan—so you can call, text, and stay connected.

Once you’re ready to switch from a shared plan to your own, learn how to keep your number for an easier transition.

If you commute or have downtime at work, consider an unlimited high-speed data plan so you can scroll and stream even when you’re not at home.

Other utilities and considerations

Once you’ve figured out your phone and internet needs, set up other utilities, such as electricity, gas, water, and trash collection. Remember to update your ID (or driver’s license), tax info, and any other bills and services with your new address. Also, set up mail forwarding from your previous address.

Doing all this before you move makes it easier to focus on setting up your new place (rather than dealing with logistics) once you arrive.

2. Opt for a smart home setup

As you set up your apartment, you’ll find plenty of benefits to smart home technology. These include saving time, protecting your belongings, and making your apartment feel homier.

Some of the most useful smart home devices and accessories include:

• Smart plugs – These handy accessories, like the GE Cync Smart Plug, let you transform any standard device into a smart device. Plug them into your outlets to turn devices on and off with your voice or smartphone.
• Smart speakers – Voice-activated smart speakers are game-changers for productivity and keeping you entertained. Throw on some music while you clean, set hands-free timers for meal prep, and control other smart devices by voice.
• Smart lights – Change the mood by adjusting the color or brightness of your lighting with your voice or smartphone. You can even automate your lights to turn on or off at specific times. Place a smart switch in a convenient location to control your smart bulbs and plugs from one spot.
• Smart locks – If your lease allows it, a smart lock helps keep your apartment secure with remote locking, activity logs, and individual codes. Plus, you don’t have to worry about losing your keys again.
• Doorbell cameras – Also, if allowed, a doorbell camera can deter theft and let you greet your visitors from anywhere.

Of course, if you’re setting up a smart home, start with a home internet plan that can support all your devices. Aim for a plan of at least 100 megabits per second (Mbps). A faster plan can handle more devices better.

With the essentials set up, plan how you’ll accentuate each room.

3. Buy bedroom essentials you’ll thank yourself for

Your bedroom is where you’ll (hopefully) spend at least eight hours a night, so investing in comfort is worth it. If your lease allows, a smart thermostat lets you control the temperature with your voice or smartphone

Along with essentials like a bed, dresser, nightstand, full-length mirror, and blackout curtains, don’t skip out on comfy bedding for a good night’s sleep. To maximize space, think about under-bed storage, closet dividers, and stackable totes.

Once you’ve perfected your personal space, turn your attention to your shared rooms.

4. Pick up living room must-haves for comfort and hosting

Like to have friends over? Prefer evenings alone? Either way, you’ll be happy to have a comfortable, tech-enabled living room. A smart TV works as a hub for all your streaming services.

Download your streaming apps and connect your TV to Wi-Fi to keep you entertained. If you experience a weak signal, add a Wi-Fi extender in the living room to boost coverage throughout your apartment.  

Add a plush rug and some mood lighting to create a welcoming space for everything from game nights to movie nights. With entertainment and comfort covered, think about where you’ll be making the popcorn.

5. Invest in kitchen gear for a smart, efficient home

The kitchen might not be the first room you think of when it comes to technology, but it’s a fantastic place to modernize, especially in your first apartment.

Along with the basics—pots, pans, plates, bowls, and utensils—add a few kitchen gadgets to make meal prep easier. Plus, you can save a ton by cooking at home instead of eating out—even if you live alone.

Depending on your habits, consider a smart coffee maker that brews before you’re even awake. Certain air fryers offer automated modes, allowing you to quickly and conveniently prepare a range of meals.

Some smart slow cookers let you adjust settings from your smartphone so your food is ready when you get home.

Ultimately, the right kitchen appliances can make cooking more enjoyable—and the right cleaning tools make cleanup easier, too.

6. Purchase cleaning supplies to keep your space fresh

If there’s one cleaning tool to invest in, it’s a robot vacuum. It navigates your floors—even under furniture—and cleans while you’re busy or away. You can even control some models with an app on your phone.

It may be a pricey purchase, but when you’re working or studying and trying to keep up with a social life, it’s well worth it. Nothing beats coming home to a spotless apartment.

But that’s just the beginning. Add all-purpose cleaner, laundry detergent, sponges, scrubbers, and trash bags to your checklist. And don’t forget to get a broom, mop, and laundry hamper.

Having the right cleaning supplies on hand makes it easier to keep your first apartment pristine and your new chapter in life running smoothly.

Wrapping up your first apartment journey

However you set up your first apartment, enjoy it—because it’s yours. With the right technology in each room, you can turn your new home into the perfect place to relax, make new memories, and spread your wings.

As you settle into your first apartment, you’ll need one of our fast internet plans to make the most of your home tech. Our reliable internet can help you tackle new responsibilities as a renter.

Remote work, online gaming, paying bills, and staying connected with family all require steady internet access. A high-speed connection and the right technology can make your first apartment more comfortable—and your life easier.