Rent Affordability Calculator | Monthly Rent Budget

Estimate a reasonable rent budget from monthly net income, target rent ratio, and fixed living costs before comparing apartments.

Monthly Net Income

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Target Rent Ratio (%)

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Other Fixed Monthly Costs

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Rent Budget Estimate

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Recommended Maximum Rent

Rent Budget by Ratio

Income Left After Rent and Fixed Costs

Estimate Affordable Monthly Rent

Enter monthly net income, target rent percentage, and fixed living costs to estimate a rent range that leaves room for other expenses.

Rent Is Only One Housing Cost

Utilities, deposits, insurance, parking, commuting, furniture, and local fees can change affordability. Compare the rent estimate with your real monthly budget.

Questions People Ask

What is the 30 percent rent rule?

The standard guideline is to spend no more than 30 percent of gross monthly income on rent. Spending more leaves less for savings, food, transport, and unexpected costs.

Is 30 percent realistic in high-cost cities?

In cities with very high housing costs, spending 35 to 40 percent on rent is common. The goal is to ensure other essentials remain affordable after rent is paid.

Should I use gross or net income for the calculation?

The 30 percent rule traditionally uses gross income. Using net take-home pay gives a more conservative and practical affordability figure.

Overview

Rent Affordability Calculator determines how much rent you can comfortably afford based on your gross income and the standard 30 percent of income guideline. It also shows what income is needed for a given rent amount.

Good Times to Use It

Use this before signing a lease to verify the rent fits within recommended affordability limits, when deciding between two properties at different price points, or when budgeting for a relocation.

How to Use

Enter your gross monthly income.
Click Calculate to see the maximum recommended rent.
Switch modes to enter a rent amount and see the income required.