Rent Affordability Calculator
Landlords typically want rent at or below 30% of your gross income. This calculator applies that rule plus the 36% total-debt guideline to your real numbers.
How to use this calculator
- Enter monthly gross income.
- Enter monthly debt payments (car, loans, cards).
- Your results appear instantly below and update as you change the numbers.
How this calculator works
The calculator applies two standard affordability rules and takes the more conservative result. The 30% rule: rent should not exceed 30% of your monthly gross income. The total-debt rule: all debt payments plus rent should stay within 36% of income — so the calculator subtracts your other debt payments before applying that limit. The lower of the two is your recommended maximum rent.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 30% rule still realistic in expensive cities?
In high-cost areas many renters spend more than 30%, but lenders and landlords still use it as the baseline. Going above it is a lifestyle choice — just know it squeezes savings and other goals.
Should I include utilities in the rent budget?
Yes, if you can — rent alone understates the real housing cost. Many advisors suggest the 30% figure cover rent plus utilities, or plan utilities separately and keep total housing near 35%.
How do landlords verify income?
Most require documented gross income of at least 3 times the monthly rent — the same 30% rule in landlord terms. Self-employed applicants often need extra documents like tax returns or bank statements.
Disclaimer: Results are estimates for general information only and do not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures reflect 2026 rules and may change. Always confirm current limits and consult a qualified professional before making decisions. Official figures: IRS.gov · 2026 limits per IRS tax inflation adjustments.