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Rent Affordability Calculator

See how much rent you can afford from your income — using the 30% guideline and the 3×-rent rule most landlords apply.

Household income before taxes.
Car, loans, credit-card minimums.
Recommended rent (30% rule)
Stretch max (36% incl. debts)
Income needed for that rent (3×)
Left after rent + debts

Guidelines, not rules. Many landlords require income of about 3× the rent; high-cost cities often run above 30%. Doesn't include utilities. General information, not advice.

No sign-up No ads Runs in your browser — your numbers never leave your device

How much rent is reasonable?

The classic guideline caps rent at 30% of gross income. Landlords often flip it around and require income of at least 3× the rent. Your other debts matter too — a 36% total-debt ceiling keeps rent plus everything else affordable.

Recommended rent = income × 30% · Landlords: income ≥ 3 × rent

Quick FAQ

Is the 30% rule realistic in expensive cities?

Often not — many people spend 40%+ in high-cost areas. The rule is a target for financial breathing room, not a hard limit, so weigh it against your other costs.

Does this include utilities?

No. Budget utilities, internet, and renter's insurance on top of the rent figure.

Related: home affordability calculator · rent vs buy calculator · debt-to-income calculator · all free calculators.

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More questions

Is the Rent Affordability Calculator free to use?

Yes. The Rent Affordability Calculator is completely free, runs in your browser, and never asks for a signup, email, or download. Enter your numbers and the result updates instantly.

How accurate is this calculator?

It uses standard formulas and recalculates the moment you change a value, so the math is exact for the inputs you enter. Treat the result as a reliable planning estimate; for decisions with legal or tax consequences, confirm the figures with a qualified professional.

Does it work on my phone?

Yes. The calculator is mobile-friendly and works on any phone, tablet, or computer — there is no app to install and nothing to save.

Can I add this calculator to my own website?

Yes. Scroll to “Add this free calculator to your site” above and copy the embed snippet to place the live calculator on your blog or website for free.

Last reviewed: September 2026. Free to use, no signup — Rent Affordability Calculator by ToolWise Digital.

Add this free calculator to your site

Copy the snippet to embed the live calculator on your blog or website — free for any site. The small “Calculator by ToolWise Digital” credit line keeps it free; you're welcome to remove it, but we appreciate you leaving it.

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