Rent vs Buy Calculator
Which is cheaper over the years you plan to stay.
Enter your values
Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed.
Results
- Cheaper option
- Buying
- Total cost of renting
- $173,040.00
- Net cost of owning
- $132,799.29
- Estimated home value at sale
- $491,949.55
- Equity at sale
- $202,617.56
Quick answer
Buying beats renting once appreciation and equity outweigh the interest, tax, maintenance and transaction costs of ownership — usually after five or more years.
How to use the Rent vs Buy Calculator
- 1Enter your current rent and the price of the home.
- 2Add down payment, rate and how long you will stay.
- 3Compare the two totals.
Frequently asked questions
What is the break-even point?
Typically five to seven years, because closing and selling costs of roughly 8–10% need time for appreciation and equity to absorb.
Are maintenance costs included?
Yes, at 2% of the home value per year, which covers repairs, insurance and property tax as a blended estimate.