Rent vs Buy
The rent vs buy debate — settled with real numbers
About This Calculator
Calculate whether renting or buying makes more financial sense in your situation over 10 years.
Enter your actual spending below. The calculator instantly shows your monthly cost, annual cost, and 10-year total adjusted for 3% annual inflation. All calculations happen in your browser — nothing is stored or sent anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to rent or buy right now?
At 6.8% mortgage rates, monthly mortgage payments on a median US home ($420,000) exceed median rents in most cities. Renting is often cheaper month-to-month in 2024–2025, though buying builds equity over time.
What hidden costs does buying a home include?
Beyond the mortgage: property taxes (~1.1%/year), homeowner's insurance (~0.5%/year), maintenance (~1%/year), HOA fees, and closing costs (2–5% of purchase price). These add $400–$800/month on a $380,000 home.
How long do you need to stay to make buying worth it?
The break-even point (where buying becomes cheaper than renting) is typically 5–7 years in most US markets, accounting for closing costs, equity built, and rent inflation.
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Disclaimer: All calculators on CostXray are for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes financial, legal, or investment advice. Default values are based on US averages. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making financial decisions.