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 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.