How much savings should a recent graduate try to have before moving for a first job?

Quick answer

Grant’s long-term target is three to six months of living expenses in savings. A new graduate may not be there yet, so his minimum practical goal is to preserve at least about two months of rent after the move rather than allowing relocation costs to drain the account to zero. The first months can bring utilities, furniture, insurance, transportation, apartment fees, and other expenses that were different in college. Once regular paychecks begin, building a broader emergency reserve should become an early financial priority.

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