Rent vs buy
Should you rent or buy? Compare the real money over 5 years.
The rent-versus-buy question is a math problem with a time horizon. This calculator compares the net cost of renting against owning over 5 years — counting your mortgage, taxes, maintenance and insurance, minus the principal you keep as equity.
Renting option
Buying option
Over years
Owning — net cost
paid out · stays as equity
Renting — total paid
Rent is pure expense — no equity built
Owning costs about /month in cash, versus your rent of /month. Your rent already covers the full ownership cost — the buy math is favorable if you will stay. Ownership costs more each month; you need price appreciation or a long horizon for it to win.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the calculator compare 5 years?
Because the time you stay is the single biggest factor. Buying usually wins over long horizons because part of each payment becomes equity; over short horizons, transaction costs and maintenance make renting cheaper. Five years is a common middle point to test.
What costs are missing from the comparison?
Purchase transaction fees, moving and renovation costs, the opportunity cost of your down payment, and any price appreciation are deliberately excluded. Add them mentally: fees and renovations can equal a full year of ownership costs.
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Planning aid only. This tool gives general estimates and standard procedures — not legal, financial or medical advice. In a life-threatening situation, call your local emergency number first. Always verify country-specific rules with official sources.