Mini Calculator
Rent-to-Income Calculator
See what percentage of your monthly take-home income would go to rent, and whether that's in the comfortable, reasonable, tight, or risky zone.
Rent-to-Income Calculator
After taxes and deductions
Rent as % of Income
Tight
What this means
You can probably make it work, but expect to feel the rent. Low debt and steady income help.
What is a healthy rent-to-income ratio?
The traditional benchmark is 30% of pre-tax income, often called the 30% rule. After-tax (take-home) is the more honest version of the same idea because it reflects the money actually available to spend. Here's a quick guide for take-home income:
Plenty of room for savings, debt payments, and discretionary spending.
Right around the traditional 30% rule. Workable in most U.S. markets.
Manageable, but expect to feel it. Low debt and a steady job help.
Little room for savings or surprises. Consider a roommate or cheaper place.
Most planners would call this unsustainable long-term.
Should I use gross or take-home income?
For planning, use take-home. Landlords often check the same ratio against gross, so keep both in mind, but the take-home version is what tells you whether the budget actually works. If you specifically want to check whether your income would pass the landlord's 3× rent rule, use the 3× Rent Calculator. For the sources behind these affordability thresholds and the full math we use, see our methodology.
Rent-to-Income FAQ
What rent-to-income ratio is considered healthy?
Under 30% is the traditional healthy zone. 30 to 40% is workable if other bills are low. Above 40% leaves little room for savings or emergencies.
Does the percentage use gross or take-home pay?
This calculator uses monthly take-home pay because that's what you actually have available to spend. Some landlord rules use gross income, which produces a lower percentage for the same rent.
I live in a high-cost city. Is 30% realistic?
Often no. In cities like NYC, SF, and Boston, many renters pay 40 to 50% of income on rent. That can work if you have low debt, low transportation costs, and no kids, but the margin for surprise is thin.
Keep planning your move
Other calculators and checklists for renters figuring out their next step.
Rent Affordability Calculator
Full breakdown: rent, bills, move-out costs, and a readiness score.
3× Rent Calculator
Quick check on whether you meet the landlord's 3× income rule.
Move-Out Cost Calculator
Estimate the upfront cash you need before moving in.
First Apartment Checklist
Everything you actually need on day one. Progress saves as you go.