Rent vs. Buy Calculator
Compare the net cost of renting and owning across the number of years you expect to stay.
Free · No sign-up · Your inputs stay in your browser
Your numbers
Compare the years you expect to stay
Your projection
Buying costs less in this model
Estimated rent cost
$202,289
Estimated net buy cost
$97,282
Estimated home equity
$202,618
The model assumes 3% annual appreciation and 1.5% of the home price each year for tax, insurance, and maintenance. Treat the difference as a scenario, not a forecast.
About this tool
Method, assumptions, practical next steps, and limits.
The answer depends on time
Buying has large entry and exit costs. Renting has no equity build-up but can preserve flexibility and avoid concentrated property risk.
Model boundaries
The comparison assumes 3% home appreciation and 1.5% of the home price each year for property tax, insurance, and maintenance. It does not include tax deductions or investment returns on unused cash.
Run several futures
Change the time horizon first, then test lower appreciation, higher repairs, or slower rent growth outside the calculator.
