Rent vs Buy Calculator: Equity vs Investing the Difference

🔗 Open the full-page Rent vs Buy Calculator

A structured way to think about housing

The rent-versus-buy decision depends on local prices, interest rates, how long you will stay, taxes, maintenance, and what return you assume if you invested cash instead of tying it up in a down payment. This calculator does not predict the future; it helps you stress-test assumptions side by side.

What the model includes

• Mortgage payment (principal and interest) on the loan after your down payment
• Property tax and homeowners insurance as ongoing costs
• Maintenance as a percentage of home value per year
• Home appreciation applied annually
• Rent with an annual increase rate
• A portfolio path that starts with your down payment and adds (owning cost − rent) each month, compounded at your chosen annual investment return

Important limits

Closing costs, mortgage insurance, HOA fees, tax deductions, capital gains tax, and transaction costs are omitted. This is not financial advice—consult a qualified professional for your situation.