How much rent can you afford? Enter your income and monthly debts to see the maximum rent under the common 30% rule and the 3× monthly rent rule landlords use to qualify applicants.
The 30% rule ("spend no more than 30% of gross income on rent") is the classic budgeting guideline for tenants. The 3× rent rule ("monthly income at least three times the rent") is the flip side most landlords use to screen applicants — they're the same math viewed from opposite ends.
The conservative figure subtracts your existing monthly debts first, then caps total debt + rent near 36% of income (a common debt-to-income benchmark). If you carry car or student-loan payments, this is the more realistic ceiling.
These are guidelines, not rules — high earners can comfortably spend more, and expensive metros often push past 30%. Use the number that fits your full budget.
This tool is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not financial advice and does not consider taxes, savings goals, or your full budget. Lender and landlord criteria vary.
Free tool by Hatchkeep — property management software, free for 50 properties and unlimited units. See all free landlord tools.