Rent Affordability Calculator
Calculate your monthly spends and savings.
The rental affordability calculator helps you find a place that fits your budget. Keep in mind that savings, debt, and other expenses can impact how much you choose to spend on rent. Simply enter your monthly net (after-tax) income, debts, expenses, and savings. The calculator will then suggest rentals based on up to 30% of your estimated gross income.
Since property managers usually qualify applicants using gross income, the tool assumes a 25% tax rate on your net income, though actual rates may vary.
How Much Rent Can I Afford Based on My Salary?
The most common guideline for rent affordability is the 30% rule — spend no more than 30% of your gross (pre-tax) monthly income on rent. Here's a quick reference by annual salary:
- $30,000/year — up to ~$750/month
- $40,000/year — up to ~$1,000/month
- $50,000/year — up to ~$1,250/month
- $60,000/year — up to ~$1,500/month
- $75,000/year — up to ~$1,875/month
- $100,000/year — up to ~$2,500/month
Keep in mind that these are maximum figures based on gross income alone. Your actual affordable rent depends on your take-home pay after taxes, monthly debt payments (student loans, car payments, credit cards), living expenses, and savings goals. Use the calculator above for a personalized figure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rent Affordability
What is the 30% rule for rent?
The 30% rule is a widely-used guideline suggesting you spend no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on rent. Most landlords use this standard when qualifying rental applicants. For example, if you earn $5,000/month gross, a landlord will typically look for rent at or below $1,500/month.
Should I use gross or net income to calculate rent affordability?
Landlords qualify you based on gross income, but your actual ability to pay depends on net (after-tax) income. Our calculator uses your take-home pay and estimates your gross income using a 25% assumed tax rate - giving you a realistic picture of what you can comfortably afford in your day-to-day budget.
What if I have a lot of debt?
If you have significant monthly debt payments - student loans, car loans, credit card minimums - your affordable rent will be lower than the 30% rule suggests. Enter your monthly debts into the calculator above to get an adjusted recommendation that accounts for your full financial picture.
Is the 30% rule still realistic today?
In many high-cost cities, the 30% rule is difficult to achieve. Financial experts often suggest keeping total housing costs (rent + utilities) under 30% of gross income and total debt obligations under 43%. If local rents push you above the 30% threshold, focus on minimizing other monthly expenses to maintain overall financial health.