Home buying decision

Rent vs Buy Calculator

Compare the estimated net cost of renting versus buying based on how long you plan to stay, mortgage terms, home appreciation, rent growth, and investment return.

Net costrenting vs buying
Equityhome value minus debt
Break-evenholding period insight

Scenario inputs

Estimated better option Calculating
Buying net cost$0
Renting net cost$0
Difference$0
Estimated home equity$0

Enter your assumptions to compare renting and buying.

Renting vs buying summary

after selected holding period

Net cost over time

lower is better

Yearly comparison

YearBuy net costRent net costDifference

How this calculator works

The calculator estimates buying costs from mortgage payments, property tax, insurance, maintenance, and selling costs, then subtracts estimated home equity. Renting costs include rent growth and the potential future value of investing the down payment.

This is a simplified planning model. Local taxes, closing costs, repairs, market returns, transaction costs, and home value changes can vary widely.