Compare the true cost of renting versus buying a home over time. Factors in mortgage payments, appreciation, investment returns, taxes, insurance, and maintenance.
Rent vs Buy Calculator helps you make informed financial decisions using current rates and proven formulas. Adjust the inputs below to match your situation and see your personalized results update in real time.
Results are estimates only. Not financial advice.
🔒 Financial Disclaimer: These calculations are estimates for informational purposes only. Results are not financial advice. Consult a qualified financial advisor before making major financial decisions.
Calculations based on publicly available data from government agencies. Actual results may vary based on individual circumstances.
30-year fixed-rate mortgages — updated April 2026
| Lender | Rate | APR | Est. Payment | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Community Credit UnionBest Rate | 6.125% | 6.280% | $1,217/mo | |
National Lending Co | 6.250% | 6.410% | $1,231/mo | |
Big Bank Mortgage | 6.375% | 6.520% | $1,247/mo | |
Premier Mortgage | 6.450% | 6.580% | $1,258/mo | |
Digital Home Loans | 6.500% | 6.630% | $1,264/mo |
Rates shown are for illustrative purposes. Actual rates may vary based on credit score, loan amount, down payment, and market conditions. Contact lenders directly for personalized rate quotes.
The rent vs buy decision is one of the biggest financial choices you will make. This calculator goes beyond simple monthly payment comparisons by modeling the full financial picture over your chosen time horizon. On the buying side, it accounts for your down payment, monthly mortgage principal and interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and ongoing maintenance costs. It also tracks the equity you build through principal paydown and home price appreciation. On the renting side, it models your rent payments increasing annually and calculates what you could earn by investing your down payment and monthly savings (the difference between buying and renting costs) at a market rate of return. The result shows the net cost of each option after factoring in home equity for buyers and investment portfolio value for renters. A year-by-year chart lets you see exactly when one option becomes more advantageous than the other, since the break-even point often shifts over time. Whether renting or buying is better depends heavily on your local housing market, how long you plan to stay, expected appreciation rates, and your investment returns.
Result: After 7 years, buying costs $67,200 in mortgage payments + $12,250 in taxes/insurance + $5,000 maintenance, partially offset by $32,200 in equity growth and ~$5,500 in tax deductions. Renting for 7 years costs $168,000 with $0 equity buildup. The crossover where buying becomes cheaper is approximately year 5 in most markets, depending on appreciation assumptions.
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