Where to look
- Listing sites: Zillow, Apartments.com, Realtor.com and HotPads. Filter by price and area.
- Driving around: many complexes and owners only put up a “For Rent” sign.
- Real estate agents: some help renters, and sometimes the owner pays their fee, not you.
- Facebook Marketplace and groups: there are good deals — and most of the scams. Be careful.
- Rooms for rent: a good temporary option while you build credit and save.
What they almost always ask for
| Requirement | Typical |
|---|---|
| Income | 2.5–3× the monthly rent (pay stubs, employer letter or bank statements) |
| Credit | A credit report check |
| Background | Criminal and eviction history check |
| Application | A non-refundable fee per adult (usually $50–$100) |
| Move-in | Security deposit and first month. Sometimes last month too. |
| Extras | Pet deposit or monthly pet rent, and renters insurance |
In 2026, a one-bedroom apartment in the Orlando area typically runs $1,400–$1,900 a month, depending on the area and complex.
If you have no credit or Social Security number
No credit history is not the same as bad credit. It’s often negotiable:
- Offer a larger deposit or to prepay several months.
- A cosigner with good credit who signs with you.
- Guarantor companies that back your lease for a fee.
- Ask whether they accept an ITIN or passport. Many complexes do but don’t advertise it.
- Bring bank statements, an employer letter and references from your previous landlord — even from another country.
- Individual owners tend to be more flexible than large complexes.
Your rights as a tenant in Florida
- Deposit: when you move out, the landlord has 15 days to return your deposit, or 30 days to notify you in writing if they intend to keep part of it. You then have 15 days to object.
- Take photos and video of the whole apartment on move-in day and move-out day.
- If you fall behind on rent, the landlord must give you a 3-day notice (excluding weekends and holidays) before filing an eviction in court. They cannot change the locks or cut off utilities on their own.
- Discrimination: they can’t refuse to rent to you because of national origin, race, religion, sex, disability or having children.
Having a problem with your landlord? Find free legal aid.
How to spot a scam
If the price is too good to be true, the “owner” is out of the country, and they want payment by Zelle, Cash App or gift cards before you see the place — it’s a scam.
- Look up the address on your county property appraiser’s site (in Orange County it’s ocpafl.org) and confirm the owner’s name matches.
- Run the listing photos through Google Images. If they show up in another listing, be suspicious.
- Never pay before you’ve seen the inside and have a signed lease.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent an apartment in Orlando without a Social Security number?
Yes. Many landlords accept an ITIN or passport, especially if you offer a larger deposit, a cosigner or proof of income. Ask directly — many complexes accept it without advertising it.
How long does a Florida landlord have to return my deposit?
15 days if returning it in full, or 30 days to notify you in writing that they intend to keep part of it. You then have 15 days to object.
This guide is informational and is not a substitute for advice from a lawyer or other professional. Laws and requirements change — always confirm with the official source. See something out of date? Email us at hola@soyorlando.com.