Rent vs Buy Calculator
Compare both paths over the same timeline with transparent assumptions.
Verify this calculatorMaintained
See what the result uses—and what it cannot know.
Sumvoro calculates deterministically from the visible inputs. It does not invent lender terms, local rules, market values, medical facts, or professional judgments.
- 1 · InputsCheck every entered value against the latest statement, quote, measurement, or official source.
- 2 · Formula
Each path accumulates housing cash costs and ending assets; the lower net cost is the modeled financial advantage. - 3 · SensitivityUse Insights to run a lower and higher case. If the conclusion changes easily, collect better information or leave more margin.
- 4 · ScopeThis tool is maintained and covered by automated calculation tests. Provider timing, rounding, and omitted facts can still change a real-world result.
- Formula release
- 2026.10-r4
- Release date
- October 10, 2026
- Review status
- Maintained
- Source review
- September 12, 2026
Optional readingLearn how this calculator works
How the rent vs buy calculator works
Compare renting with buying using housing costs, appreciation, maintenance, transaction costs, and an investment alternative.
Each path accumulates housing cash costs and ending assets; the lower net cost is the modeled financial advantage.
Read our calculation methodology and limitations.
Example
Compare five years of rising rent with mortgage payments, ownership costs, transaction costs, and estimated home equity.
What affects the result
- Appreciation and investment returns are uncertain.
- Buying and selling costs matter most over short horizons.
- Maintenance, taxes, insurance, and rent increases should be localized.
Helpful guides
Frequently asked questions
Does the result mean I should buy?
No. It is a financial scenario, not a recommendation, and does not value flexibility or personal preferences.
Why include investment return?
Cash not used for a down payment could potentially be invested; the return is only an assumption.