What is the fairest way to split rent with roommates?

There is no single rule. Splitting evenly is simplest. Splitting by income is common when roommates earn very different amounts. Splitting by room size (square footage) is fair when bedrooms differ a lot — the person with the master suite pays more. This calculator supports all three.

Should utilities be split the same way as rent?

Utilities are most often split evenly since everyone uses them, but you can fold them into the same income or room-size split. This tool lets you add utilities and splits them with the chosen method.

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Roommate Rent Split Calculator

Splitting rent with roommates? Divide it fairly — evenly, by income, or by room size — and add shared utilities. Each person's share updates instantly.

How to split rent with roommates fairly

There's no legally "correct" way to split rent — only what roommates agree is fair. The three most common approaches:

Evenly — total ÷ number of roommates. Simplest, best when rooms and incomes are similar.
By income — each person pays the same percentage of rent as their share of combined income. Keeps the burden proportional when earnings differ.
By room size — divide by square footage (or a simple "rooms" weight). The master bedroom with a private bath pays more than the small room.

Frequently asked questions

What's the fairest way to split rent?

If incomes are close, split evenly. If one roommate earns much more, splitting by income feels fairer. If bedrooms differ a lot in size or amenities, split by room size. Many households combine methods — e.g., room size for rent, even for utilities.

How do you split rent by income?

Add everyone's income, then each person pays rent × (their income ÷ total income). This calculator does it automatically — just switch the method to "By income" and enter each person's monthly income.

Should the person with the bigger room pay more?

Commonly yes. Choose "By room size" and enter each room's square footage (or relative size); the calculator weights each share accordingly.

This tool is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. How you split rent is an agreement between roommates.