A Cuban woman living in Knoxville, Tennessee, showcased her apartment on TikTok and revealed what she pays each month to live there, sparking a wave of reactions among her followers. The young woman, who identifies herself as @unacubanaenknoxville, broke down in detail the services included in her monthly rent and compared that amount with what she could do with the same sum in Cuba.
According to what he explains and shows in his video, the apartment features a living room, a dining area, a small kitchen, a bathroom for the whole house, two bedrooms—one of which has been converted into a nail salon—and a small balcony, which was one of his essential requirements when searching for a place to live. He also needed access to laundry facilities, and he was able to find that as well.
Everything seems quite functional, but what caught the most attention was the total cost: $1,423 per month, an amount that, as clarified, includes all associated expenses. This amount covers items such as garbage collection, water (which can vary based on consumption), pest control, some utilities, construction fees, an item labeled "plus rent" that remains somewhat unclear, and a $7 surcharge for paying with a debit card. Electricity, however, is not included.
“The tasty part comes when you find out that the electricity is separate”, she joked with typical Cuban humor. She also mentioned that owning pets carries an additional charge of 50 dollars per month, although she is exempt because her dog is registered as an emotional support animal.
Between calculations and anecdotes, he made a comparison that sparked laughter and reflections: “With this money in Cuba, I can buy medicines for my grandmother and still have enough left to place a bet on a number in the lottery,” he said.
As expected, many Cubans in the United States responded by sharing their own figures. From Florida, someone commented that they pay $1,300 for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with water included. In Houston, another person said they pay between $550 and $650 for a one-bedroom apartment. Even from Chicago, a user confessed that their rent totals $2,400 for three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
The video has sparked interest, beyond the dollar amount, as it reveals the less glamorous side of life abroad: a long list of expenses that add up to more than it seems. Nevertheless, the story reflects how many Cubans, even far from home, do not lose their sense of humor or their priorities: helping family on the island and, if there's anything left, trying their luck with the lottery.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cost of Living and Rents in the United States for Cubans
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Knoxville, Tennessee?
The monthly rent for an apartment in Knoxville, Tennessee, is $1,423, including expenses such as trash, water, pest control, some utilities, and a surcharge for debit card payments. Electricity is not included.
Is it cheaper to live in an RV than in an apartment in the U.S.?
Living in an RV is not necessarily cheaper than an apartment. The monthly cost of living in an RV can be comparable to that of an apartment, depending on expenses such as parking and insurance. For example, a Cuban pays $2,060 per month for her RV in the U.S., while apartment rents vary by location.
What is the cost of living in Miami compared to other states in the U.S.?
The cost of living in Miami is significantly high compared to other cities. For example, some people pay $2,500 for a two-bedroom apartment, while in cities like Louisville, Kentucky, rents can be more affordable. The difference in costs sparks debates about the viability of living in Miami.
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