How this tool works
The calculator checks three common guidelines and recommends the lowest of them so you have breathing room: 30% of gross monthly income, annual income divided by 40, and the room left under a 36% debt-to-income ceiling after your monthly debt payments. It also tells you whether you pass the 3× income test many landlords use.
Read more in How much rent can I afford?
Frequently asked questions
Is the 30% rule realistic?
It's a guideline. In high-cost cities many renters spend more; if you do, keep other fixed costs and debt low and build an emergency fund.
Should I use gross or net income?
Landlords and the 30% rule use gross (pre-tax) income. For your personal budget, also check rent against take-home pay using the 50/30/20 rule.