Advanced Rent vs Buy Calculator
Compare renting vs buying with detailed analysis including investment returns, maintenance, taxes, and appreciation.
Rent vs Buy Analysis
Rent vs Buy is one of the biggest financial decisions you can make.
Buying costs:
- Mortgage payment (principal + interest)
- Property tax (~1–2% of home value per year)
- Maintenance (~1% of home value per year)
- Insurance, HOA fees
Buying benefits:
- Equity building
- Home appreciation (historically ~3–5% per year)
- Tax deductions (mortgage interest)
Renting costs:
- Monthly rent (typically increases 2–4% per year)
- Renter’s insurance
Renting benefits:
- Investment of saved down payment
- Flexibility to move
- No maintenance costs
The breakeven is typically 5–7 years. Below that, renting is often cheaper.