Rent Calculator
Work out how much rent fits your income using standard ratios.
Target rent (30% rule)
$1,500
per month
Comfortable range
$1,250–$1,500
Stretch ceiling
$1,800
Landlord screen (40×)
$1,500
The 30% rule and its limits
Spending under 30% of gross income on rent is the standard affordability line — landlords often require annual income of 40× the monthly rent, which is the same ratio. In expensive metros many renters run 35–40%; the trade-off comes out of savings rate.
Total cost of renting
Budget beyond base rent: utilities ($150–300), renter's insurance (~$15–30), parking, and annual increases of 3–5%. A cheaper unit farther out isn't cheaper if it adds a car — commute costs are rent by another name.
Frequently asked questions
- How does the Rent Calculator work?
- Work out how much rent fits your income using standard ratios.
- Is the Rent Calculator free to use?
- Yes. The Rent Calculator is completely free, runs entirely in your browser, and requires no account or sign-up. Your inputs never leave your device.
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