As a Purdue student searching for off-campus housing, it’s important to understand exactly what you’ll be paying before you sign a lease.
At Rambler Riverfront, some of the most common questions our leasing team receives are:
- How much will I pay when I apply?
- What fees are due before move-in?
- What costs will I pay each month?
Understanding these expenses ahead of time can help you budget more accurately and compare housing options with confidence.
Read Next: 7 Ways to Cut Costs on Student Apartments Near Purdue
We know cost is one of the biggest factors students and parents consider when choosing housing. That’s why we’ve put together this guide explaining the different fees you may encounter when signing a lease at Rambler Riverfront, why they exist and when they are typically due.
Recurring Fees
Recurring fees are expenses you’ll pay throughout your lease term while living at Rambler Riverfront.
Your recurring monthly fees may include:
- Rent
- Parking (optional)
- Pet Rent (optional)
- Utilities
Rent
All residents will pay monthly rent based on their selected floor plan.
Rambler Riverfront offers a variety of layouts ranging from studios to 5-bedroom apartments, allowing students to find a floor plan that fits both their lifestyle and budget. Rent will be posted on the 1st of each month and will be due by the 3rd of each month. Leases run for 12 months, with monthly rent payments throughout the lease term.
Your monthly rent will be your largest recurring housing expense.
Parking
If you plan on bringing a car to Purdue, parking may be available for an additional fee.
Rates and availability can vary depending on the type of parking selected and occupancy within the community.
For the most up-to-date pricing and availability information, contact the leasing office.
Read Next: Pros and Cons of Bringing a Car to Purdue University
Pet Rent
If you choose to bring your furry friend to campus, you’ll pay a $35 rent charge per month. You’ll also pay a $250 non-refundable pet deposit, which will be due at move-in.
Utilities
You’ll pay for water and electricity through a third-party app, ClearCharge. This app coordinates with the utility company to collect your grand total and split that price evenly between all your roommates. That way you never have to worry about who is paying which month or who you’ll need to Venmo. ClearCharge takes care of that for you!
In addition to your rent, residents are also charged a $5 monthly trash fee.
Understanding what is included in rent and what is billed separately can help you avoid unexpected monthly expenses.
Read Next: What is Generally Covered in Student Apartment Rent?
One-Time Fees
In addition to monthly expenses, there are several fees students may encounter before move-in.
- Application Fee
- Administrative Fee
- Security Deposit
- Utility Setup Fee
- Pet Deposit
Some fees are due during the application process, while others are typically paid before move-in day.
1. Application Fee
The application fee is paid when you submit your application. Completing an application is a requirement for all future residents, and the first step to securing your perfect unit!
Application fees are $75 and non-refundable to help cover administrative costs such as application processing, screening and verification requirements.
2. Administrative Fee
The administrative fee will be available to pay after your application, but is not due until move-in. This is a $200 and non-refundable fee that helps cover operational and leasing-related expenses associated with preparing your resident account and lease documents.
3. Security Deposit
The security deposit, like the admin fee, will be available to pay after you complete your application, but won’t be due until move-in. This fee is $200 and refundable, granted there are no damages to your unit.
4. Utility Setup Fee
This $79.20 fee is charged by ClearCharge so you don’t have to worry about setting up your own utilities. Clearcharge will take care of that for you!
5. Pet Deposit
As previously mentioned, if you’re bringing a pet, you will be responsible for a one-time non-refundable pet deposit of $250 before move-in.
Questions to Ask Before Signing Your Lease
Before signing your lease, make sure you understand:
- What is included in my monthly rent?
- What fees are due today?
- What fees are due before move-in?
- What utilities am I responsible for?
- Is parking included?
- Are there pet fees?
- Is my security deposit refundable?
Asking these questions early can help eliminate surprises and make budgeting easier throughout the school year.
Read Next: 15 Questions You Should Ask When Touring a Student Apartment in West Lafayette
We hope this guide helps you better understand the fees you may encounter when signing a lease at Rambler Riverfront.
While rent is often the biggest housing expense, it’s important to account for other costs such as utilities, deposits, parking and application fees when planning your budget.
If you have questions about pricing, fees or leasing at Rambler Riverfront, contact our leasing team. We’re always happy to help explain costs and help you find a floor plan that fits your budget.
Lindsey
Lindsey is a Property Marketing Intern for Rambler Riverfront. She's a senior at Purdue University, majoring in Communications and Media Studies. Her favorite drink to order is an iced matcha!
Published On: July 20, 2026
Last Updated On: August 4, 2026
