Rent vs Buy Calculator

Compare rough annual cash cost for renting versus owning.

Monthly rent Monthly mortgage payment Annual property tax + insurance Annual maintenance

Result
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How this calculation works

What each input means

Monthly rent — Annualized as rent × 12.
Monthly mortgage payment — Annualized as mortgage × 12, then annual property tax + insurance and annual maintenance are added for the buy side.

Formula used

Annual buy cost = mortgage×12 + taxes/insurance + maintenance; compared to annual rent.

Omits opportunity cost, appreciation, transaction costs, and tax deductions.

How this result is estimated

This housing cost calculator applies the formulas described on this page to the values you enter. Outputs are not financial, tax, legal, or medical advice.

Inputs are user-provided and may include rounding.
Where accuracy, eligibility, or obligations matter, rely on official disclosures and licensed professionals.

Last reviewed: 2026-04-17

Frequently asked questions

Is this calculator result exact?

It is an estimate based on your inputs and may differ from official or provider-specific calculations.

Does this site provide financial, tax, or legal advice?

No. Each tool applies explicit formulas to values you supply. Financial, tax, and legal conclusions belong with licensed professionals and official documents.

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