“Three’s Company” was a beloved sitcom that aired from 1977 to 1984, featuring the comedic adventures of three roommates—Jack, Janet, and Chrissy—living in a Santa Monica apartment. The show depicted their modest yet charming home as an affordable living space. But in today’s real estate market, would this iconic apartment still be considered a bargain, or would it be out of reach for the average renter?
Let’s dive into the cost of this famous TV apartment, comparing 1970s rent prices with today’s skyrocketing housing market.
Where Was the “Three’s Company” Apartment Located?
The show was set in Santa Monica, California, a prime location known for its beachside charm and proximity to Los Angeles. While the exterior shots of the apartment were filmed at 2314 2nd Street in Santa Monica, the actual interiors were created on a Hollywood soundstage.
How Much Was Rent in the 1970s?
Back in the late 1970s, rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Santa Monica averaged between $250 and $400 per month. Given that the “Three’s Company” apartment was a two-bedroom unit, it’s safe to estimate that Jack, Janet, and Chrissy split around $300 in rent—a steal compared to today’s standards.
How Much Would It Cost Today?
Santa Monica has undergone significant gentrification, making it one of the most expensive places to live in the U.S. As of 2024, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Santa Monica is around $4,500 to $6,000 per month.
Cost Breakdown:
- 1977 Rent Estimate: $300 per month
- 2024 Rent Estimate: $5,000 per month (average of current rates)
- Increase in Price: Over 1,500%!
This means that what was once an affordable shared apartment for three young professionals is now a luxury rental only accessible to high-income earners.
Factors Driving the High Cost of Rent
1. Location, Location, Location
Santa Monica’s desirability has skyrocketed due to its beautiful beaches, high-end dining, and proximity to Los Angeles’ booming entertainment industry.
2. Housing Demand
With more people wanting to live in Santa Monica, rental prices have soared. Limited housing supply and high demand drive up costs significantly.
3. Inflation and Real Estate Boom
The cost of living and real estate values have risen dramatically over the last few decades, contributing to rental increases.
Would “Three’s Company” Roommates Afford Rent Today?
In the show, Jack was a chef, Janet worked in a flower shop, and Chrissy was a secretary. Let’s compare their estimated 1977 salaries with modern equivalents:
- Jack (Chef): $15,000 per year (1977) → $70,000 per year (2024)
- Janet (Florist Assistant): $12,000 per year (1977) → $50,000 per year (2024)
- Chrissy (Secretary): $13,000 per year (1977) → $55,000 per year (2024)
Total combined salary (2024 estimate): $175,000 per year
With an estimated rent of $5,000 per month, the trio would be spending 34% of their combined income on rent, which is still within the acceptable housing affordability range (under 40%). However, given other living expenses in Los Angeles, they might struggle to maintain their lifestyle.
Would the “Three’s Company” Apartment Be Rent-Controlled?
Santa Monica has strict rent control laws, so if the apartment had been continuously rented since the 1970s, the cost might have risen much slower. But if it hit the open market today, it would undoubtedly reflect modern prices.
What Would a Comparable Apartment Look Like Today?
If you were looking for a similar apartment in Santa Monica today, here’s what you’d likely get:
- 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath
- 800–1,000 sq ft
- Close to the beach
- Rent: $4,500–$6,000/month
However, apartments today come with amenities the “Three’s Company” gang didn’t have—such as modern kitchens, in-unit laundry, and high-speed internet.
Conclusion
The “Three’s Company” apartment, once an affordable gem, would be a luxury rental in today’s market. While Jack, Janet, and Chrissy managed to enjoy their beachfront lifestyle on modest salaries in the ‘70s, today’s renters would need a much higher income to afford the same space.
Would you still consider renting an apartment like theirs in today’s market? Let us know your thoughts!
FAQs
1. Where was the “Three’s Company” apartment located?
The exterior shots were filmed at 2314 2nd Street in Santa Monica, California.
2. How much did the roommates pay for rent in the show?
Their estimated rent was around $300 per month in the late 1970s.
3. How much would the apartment cost today?
A similar two-bedroom apartment in Santa Monica would rent for $4,500 to $6,000 per month.
4. Could the “Three’s Company” roommates afford rent today?
Based on their estimated modern salaries, they would spend around 34% of their combined income on rent, making it manageable but tight.
5. Is Santa Monica still affordable for young professionals?
Not really—high demand and rising costs have made it one of the most expensive places to live in California.
