The average rent in Derby, CT is roughly $1,500 to $1,560 a month for a one-bedroom, based on October 2026 listing data. Apartments.com reported an overall average of $1,559 (up about 5.5% over the year), while RentHop’s October 2026 medians were $1,200 for a studio, $1,500 for one bedroom, $1,900 for two bedrooms and $2,300 for three bedrooms. Derby is a small city, so a handful of listings can move the numbers.
This guide covers Derby, Connecticut, in New Haven County. For the English city, see our Derby cost of living guide.
Quick answer
Plan on about $1,200 to $1,500 for a studio or one-bedroom, $1,400 to $1,900 for a two-bedroom and about $2,300 for a three-bedroom. Sources use different samples, so the numbers do not match exactly.
What Is the Average Rent in Derby, CT?
| Home size | RentHop median (Oct. 2026) | Apartments.com average (Oct. 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,200 | $1,514 |
| 1 bedroom | $1,500 | $1,559 |
| 2 bedrooms | $1,900 | $1,426 |
| 3 bedrooms | $2,300 | Not reliable |
| 4 bedrooms | $3,050 | Not available |
Sources: RentHop (medians of active and rented listings, which include houses) and Apartments.com (apartment averages, which reported an overall $1,559 and a 5.5% yearly rise). RentHop’s larger home sizes mix in houses and townhomes, which explains why its two- and three-bedroom figures run higher.
Are Rents Rising in Derby, CT?
Apartments.com shows average rent up about 5.5% (roughly $86 a month) over the past year. RentHop shows mixed changes by size: one-bedrooms up about 15% and studios down about 6%. Small samples cause these swings, so check live listings before you budget.
What Income Do You Need?
A common guideline keeps rent under about 30% of gross income. The table applies it to typical Derby rents.
| Monthly rent | Gross monthly income needed | Gross annual income |
|---|---|---|
| $1,200 | $4,000 | $48,000 |
| $1,500 | $5,000 | $60,000 |
| $1,900 | $6,333 | $76,000 |
Landlords often apply their own income rules, such as three times the monthly rent, so check each listing.
Other Costs Beyond Rent
- Security deposit: Connecticut generally limits deposits to two months’ rent, and one month’s rent for tenants aged 62 and over. Confirm current rules with the state before signing.
- Utilities: heat and electricity vary a lot with the season and building type. Ask about average monthly bills.
- Renters insurance: commonly required by landlords and usually modest in cost.
- Parking and pet fees: ask what is included in the lease.
How to Save on Rent in Derby, CT
- Compare nearby towns such as Ansonia, Shelton and Seymour, which share the same commuting corridor.
- Ask about move-in concessions or a longer lease for a lower rate.
- Share a two- or three-bedroom to divide rent and utilities.
- Check whether heat, hot water or parking are included.
For another New England benchmark, see our guides to average rent in Boston and Manchester, NH rent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average rent in Derby, CT?
About $1,559 for apartments per Apartments.com in October 2026. RentHop’s October 2026 medians are $1,200 for a studio, $1,500 for one bedroom, $1,900 for two bedrooms and $2,300 for three bedrooms.
How much income do I need to rent in Derby, CT?
Under the 30% guideline, about $5,000 a month in gross income for a $1,500 rent. Landlords may set their own requirements.
Are rents going up in Derby, CT?
Apartments.com reports about a 5.5% rise over the past year, while RentHop shows mixed changes by home size.
How much is a security deposit in Connecticut?
Connecticut generally limits deposits to two months’ rent, or one month for tenants aged 62 and over. Check current state rules before you pay.
Conclusion
Renting in Derby, CT costs roughly $1,200 to $1,560 for a studio or one-bedroom and more for larger homes. Compare several current listings, confirm what utilities are included, and budget for deposits and insurance.
