30x Calculator

Finding the right apartment isn’t just about location and size—it’s about knowing whether you can actually afford it. Many landlords use the 30x rule as a quick affordability check, meaning your monthly income should be about 3.33 times your monthly rent. This helps ensure you can comfortably pay rent while covering other living expenses.

Our 30x Calculator makes this process effortless. By simply entering your monthly income and monthly rent, you’ll instantly see whether you qualify under the rule, what your maximum rent should be, and the required income for your chosen rent.

How the 30x Rule Works

The 30x rule is a standard guideline in real estate. It’s based on the principle that rent should account for no more than roughly 30% of your gross monthly income.
Mathematically:

Maximum Rent = Monthly Income ÷ 3.33
Required Income = Monthly Rent × 3.33

If your income meets or exceeds the required income, you’re considered eligible according to this rule.

How to Use the 30x Calculator

Using this tool is quick and beginner-friendly. Follow these steps:

1. Enter Your Monthly Income
   Type your total gross monthly income into the “Your Monthly Income” field.
2. Enter Your Monthly Rent
   Fill in the rent amount you’re considering.
3. Click “Calculate”
   The calculator will process your details. A progress bar will appear for about 3 seconds.
4. View Your Results
   You’ll see:
   • Maximum rent you qualify for under the 30x rule
   • Your entered income and rent
   • Required income for your chosen rent
   • Eligibility status (“Yes” or “No”)
5. Optional Actions
   • Copy Results to save or share
   • Share Results directly via supported apps or links
   • Reset to start over

Example of the 30x Calculator in Action

Let’s say:

• Monthly Income: $5,000
• Desired Monthly Rent: $1,400

Step-by-step:

• Maximum Rent You Qualify For = $5,000 ÷ 3.33 = $1,501.50
• Required Income for $1,400 Rent = $1,400 × 3.33 = $4,662.00
• Since $5,000 ≥ $4,662.00, you’re eligible.

Result:
You pass the 30x rule test and can comfortably afford the $1,400 rent.

Features & Benefits of the 30x Calculator

Key Features

• Instant calculation of rent eligibility
• Progress indicator for a smooth experience
• Clear breakdown of your income vs. required income
• Easy copy/share buttons
• Mobile-friendly design

Benefits

• Saves time when house-hunting
• Avoids financial strain by ensuring rent fits your budget
• Helps negotiations with landlords by showing affordability
• Works anywhere – no registration required

Who Can Use This Tool?

• Renters checking affordability before applying
• Landlords screening potential tenants
• Property agents offering quick checks for clients
• Financial planners helping clients budget for housing

Tips for Using the 30x Rule Wisely

• Remember: It’s a guideline, not a law. Your actual comfort level might differ.
• Factor in other expenses like utilities, transportation, and savings.
• If you’re borderline eligible, consider negotiating rent or looking for shared housing.
• Use the calculator early in your search to narrow down realistic options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the 30x rule in renting?
It’s a guideline stating your gross monthly income should be about 3.33 times your monthly rent.

2. Why do landlords use the 30x rule?
It helps assess whether tenants can comfortably pay rent without financial hardship.

3. Does this rule apply everywhere?
It’s common in many countries, but not universal. Some areas use slightly different ratios.

4. How accurate is the 30x rule?
It’s a quick estimate, but individual budgets and lifestyles can affect affordability.

5. What if I don’t meet the 30x rule?
You can try finding a cheaper place, getting a co-signer, or providing proof of savings.

6. Is the 30x rule based on gross or net income?
Typically, it’s based on gross (before-tax) income.

7. Can I still rent if I earn less than the 30x requirement?
Possibly, but landlords may request additional guarantees or deposits.

8. How does the calculator determine eligibility?
It compares your income with the rent’s required income under the 3.33 multiplier.

9. What is “maximum rent” in the results?
It’s the highest monthly rent you can afford under the 30x rule.

10. Is this calculator free?
Yes, it’s completely free to use.

11. Can I use it for weekly rent amounts?
Convert your weekly rent to monthly first by multiplying by 4.33.

12. Does it consider other expenses?
No, it focuses only on the rent-to-income ratio.

13. Should I spend the maximum rent allowed?
Not necessarily—leaving room for savings is wise.

14. Is this the same as the 40x rule I’ve heard of?
The 40x rule is a variation used for annual income vs. monthly rent.

15. How do I share my results?
Click the “Share Results” button to send via supported apps or copy the link.

16. Can this tool be used by landlords?
Yes, it’s helpful for quick tenant affordability checks.

17. Does the calculator store my data?
No, it processes your input locally without saving it.

18. Is the 30x rule better than budgeting manually?
It’s faster but less personalized than a full budget analysis.

19. Can it work offline?
Only if loaded in your browser beforehand, since it’s web-based.

20. How often should I check affordability?
Before starting a housing search or whenever your income changes.

This 30x Calculator is more than just a math tool—it’s your reality check for rental affordability. Whether you’re renting for the first time or moving to a new city, a quick calculation can save you from overstretching your budget and help you focus on homes you can truly afford.