Rent vs Buy Calculator
Should you rent or buy? Compare the true costs of renting vs owning over any time horizon, including appreciation and opportunity cost.
Part of our Finance Calculators collection.
Rent vs Buy Calculator
Free online calculator
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Historical US average: ~3.5%
How to Use This Calculator
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Enter all required values.
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See results instantly.
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Adjust inputs to compare scenarios.
How This is Calculated
Buy cost: mortgage payments + maintenance (1% home value/yr) − equity built Rent cost: monthly rent × months × avg 3%/yr rent increases Comparison accounts for down payment opportunity cost
Example Calculation
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Inputs
Result
Enter values above
Results appear instantly as you enter values.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this calculator?
These are estimates. Actual figures depend on lender requirements, your credit score, and local conditions. Consult a mortgage professional for exact numbers.
Should I get pre-approved?
Yes — getting pre-approved before house hunting shows sellers you're serious and gives you a realistic budget.