Tenant Resources

Rental Readiness Calculator

One tool, two answers: a realistic monthly rent budget based on your income and debts, and the actual cash you’d need on day one at that rent.

This is an educational estimate to help you search with realistic expectations. Every landlord's qualifying criteria — and fee structure — is a little different.

Most landlords want your gross income to be at least 3× the monthly rent (about 33%). This tool lets you set your own comfort level, starting from the common 30% guideline.

Step 1 — Income & Monthly Debts

Annual Household Income (gross)

Other Monthly Debt Payments Car loans, student loans, minimum credit card payments, etc. — not including rent.

Step 2 — Renters Insurance

Renters Insurance

Most landlords require it. Typically $12–$25/month.

Estimated Monthly Renters Insurance

Step 3 — Comfort Level

Maximum Rent (% of Gross Income) 30%

30% of gross income is the most common guideline. Many landlords cap this around 33% (the "3× rent" rule).

Step 4 — Move-In Costs At This Rent

Monthly Rent to Plan Around Starts at your max affordable rent above — change it to price out a specific listing instead.

Security Deposit Commonly equal to one month's rent, but this varies by landlord and state.

Last Month's Rent Due Up Front

Some landlords require first and last month's rent at signing.

Pet Fee / Pet Deposit

One-time fee, deposit, or both — combine them here.

Application Fee(s) Per applicant if more than one adult is applying.

Admin / Move-In Fee

A one-time, non-refundable fee some landlords charge.

Estimated Maximum Monthly Rent

—

Based on the income, debts, and comfort level you entered.

Estimated Total Due At Move-In

—

Deposit, fees, and first month's rent at the rent entered in Step 4.

Total Monthly Housing Cost

—

Income-to-Rent Ratio

—

Total Move-In Fees

—

Press “Calculate My Rental Readiness” to see your full breakdown.

This is an educational estimate only, based on the figures you entered and general income-to-rent guidelines. It is not a guarantee of qualifying for any specific rental or of actual move-in costs, which depend on each landlord's own screening criteria and fee structure.

Ready to start your rental search?

This is an estimate. Let’s talk through your specific situation and what’s actually available in your target area.

Complete the Tenant Questionnaire