Rent Affordability Calculator
How much rent can you actually afford? The 30% budgeting rule plus the landlord 3x-income screening standard.
Rent affordability is typically measured two ways: the 30% rule (rent should not exceed 30% of gross monthly income) used for personal budgeting, and the stricter 3x income rule (gross monthly income should be at least 3 times the rent) that most landlords use to screen applicants. This calculator applies both, plus a 40% combined debt-and-rent cap, so you know your realistic budget before you tour an apartment.
How Rent Affordability Is Calculated
This calculator combines the standard budgeting guideline with the actual screening math used by property managers, then takes the more conservative result.
30% Budgeting Rule
Max Rent = Gross Monthly Income × 30%
Landlord Screening Rule
Required Income = Rent × 3 (monthly)
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Gross Income | Total income before taxes and deductions |
| Combined DTI Cap | Rent + all monthly debts should stay under 40% of gross monthly income |
| 3x Rule | Landlord screening standard: gross monthly income ≥ 3 × monthly rent |
Example: On $70,000/year ($5,833/month), the 30% rule caps rent at $1,750/month. If you carry $300/month in existing debt, the 40% combined cap further limits rent to $2,033/month — so the 30% rule (the lower of the two) governs. To qualify for a $1,800/month apartment under the landlord's 3x rule, you'd need at least $64,800/year in verifiable income.
⚠️ Expert Pro-Tip
Budget for total housing cost, not just the rent line item. Utilities, renters insurance, and parking can add 5–10% of income on top of rent. If you're close to the 30% threshold on rent alone, you're likely spending 35–40% on total housing once everything is included — the same range that triggers cash-flow stress for most households. Use the "Monthly Debt Payments" field to add estimated utilities if they're not included in your lease.
Rent Affordability Calculator
Your Financial Profile
Check a Specific Listing
Affordability Results
Max Recommended Rent
$1,750/mo
Based on your standard (30%) target and 40% combined debt cap
Desired Rent Check
$1,800/mo rent
30.9% of gross monthly income
Income needed for this rent
Using the standard 3× monthly rent screening rule
Based on your results — what to do next:
What if you bought instead of rented?
At $1,750/mo for rent, see what home price that same budget could support with a mortgage instead.
Save for a security deposit or move-in costs
Renting typically requires first month, last month, and a security deposit upfront — roughly $3,500–$5,250. Plan the savings timeline.
Track how your budget builds wealth
With $3,583/mo left after rent, debts, and savings, see how consistent contributions grow your net worth over time.