Should You Rent or Buy?
Enter your numbers. Get an honest, data-driven answer in seconds. No fluff, no sales pitch.
Your Numbers
$400,000
20% ($80,000)
$2,000
7.0%
7 years
Advanced Settings
1.1%/yr
4%/yr
7%/yr
Pre-Filled by City
Tap a city to load real median prices and rents.
How Does the Rent vs Buy Calculator Work?
Our calculator compares the true long-term cost of buying a home versus renting — accounting for factors most people overlook.
What's Included in the Buying Cost
- Mortgage payment — principal + interest based on current rates
- Property taxes — varies by state and county
- Home insurance — typically $100–$200/month
- Maintenance & repairs — estimated at 1% of home value per year
What's Included in the Renting Cost
- Monthly rent — your actual out-of-pocket
- Opportunity cost — what your down payment earns if invested in the market instead
The Break-Even Point
The break-even point is how many years you need to stay in a home before buying becomes cheaper than renting. Generally, if you plan to stay fewer than 3–5 years, renting is smarter. Beyond 7+ years, buying usually wins.