This calculator compares the total cost of renting versus buying a home over time, factoring in mortgage, property costs, rent increases and investing the difference. Updated June 2026.
Rent vs Buy Estimator
How It Works
This calculator compares the total cost of renting vs buying a home over the loan period. It includes rent, monthly mortgage payments, and average ownership costs like taxes and insurance.
Example
If you’re paying $2,000 in rent and consider buying a $350,000 home with a 6.5% 30-year mortgage and $400/month in other costs, buying may be more expensive short term, but potentially cheaper long term depending on home appreciation.
FAQ
- Does this include home appreciation? No, it focuses on out-of-pocket costs only.
- Can I include a down payment? This version assumes 100% financing. Future version will support down payments.
- Should I always buy? Not necessarily — renting may be better short-term. This tool helps you compare.
Explore more tools: Mortgage Calculator, Investment Growth, Tax Estimator