Compare renting with buying a home over the years you plan to stay, in today’s money terms.
How this works
Buying: down payment plus 3% buying costs, a 20-year loan, and 1.5% of the home value a year for upkeep and tax. When you sell, 3% selling costs. Renting: you invest the down payment and any monthly difference at your return rate. We compare your wealth at the end. Price-to-rent above 20 usually favours renting.
Questions people ask
How do I use the Rent vs Buy Calculator?
Fill in the fields, starting with “Home price”, “Down payment” and “Loan interest rate”, and change any other options that match your home. The answer, a drawing and practical tips update as you type, and the Copy link button saves your numbers in a link you can share.
Is the Rent vs Buy Calculator free?
Yes. The Rent vs Buy Calculator is free, with no sign-up, and works on phones, tablets and computers. The results are estimates to help you plan, so check with a qualified professional before structural, electrical, gas or plumbing work.