How Much Rent Can I Afford?
Landlords usually want to see income of 3x the rent — and the classic budgeting rule says housing should stay under 30% of gross income. This calculator runs both, plus a residual-income check so you don't end up house-poor.
Your comfortable rent range:
| 30% rule max (30% of gross income) | |
| Landlord 3x-income rule max | |
| Residual-income max (what's actually left) | |
| Recommended target (lowest of the three) |
How to read your number
- 30% rule: the standard affordability ceiling. Above this, one surprise bill can cascade.
- 3x income: what most landlords require to approve your application. If your target rent is above this number, you'll need a cosigner or higher income.
- Residual income: income minus debts and essentials. This is the honest number — it accounts for your actual life, not an average.
Use the lowest of the three as your ceiling. Then read our first apartment checklist before you start touring.
Estimates only — not financial advice. Rents, deposits, and move-in costs vary by market.