Rent Affordability Calculator
Quickly estimate how much rent you can afford based on your gross monthly or annual income. Use the simple 30% rule or our detailed budget mode for a more tailored figure.
What Is the 30% Rule for Rent?
The 30% rule is a widely cited personal finance guideline suggesting that you should spend no more than 30% of your gross (pre-tax) monthly income on housing costs. It originated from U.S. housing policy in the late 1960s and was later adopted as a general rule of thumb by financial advisors.
While the 30% rule provides a useful starting point, it is not a hard rule or a legal requirement. Many financial experts now suggest that it is more of a rough guideline than a one-size-fits-all answer. In high-cost-of-living areas, spending more than 30% on rent may be unavoidable, while those with significant debt may need to spend considerably less.
For a more personalized estimate, try the detailed budget mode above. It factors in your other fixed monthly expenses and savings goals to give you a tailored recommendation.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your gross monthly or annual income (before taxes).
- Adjust the percentage slider if you prefer a different target (default is 30%).
- See your recommended maximum monthly rent instantly.
- Optionally, switch to detailed mode to factor in debts and savings goals.
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates based on general guidelines and is not financial advice. The 30% figure is a rough guideline, not a guarantee of loan or lease approval or a statement of what a landlord will accept. Actual affordability depends on your total financial picture, local market conditions, and individual circumstances.