What this site does
The rent affordability calculator estimates suggested rent ranges using common personal finance guidelines. It is designed to help with rough budgeting decisions, comparisons between options, and understanding trade-offs — not to provide definitive advice.
How the estimates are calculated
The calculator works by converting your input into a monthly net income equivalent, then applying simple percentage-based guidelines:
- Conservative: around 25% of net income
- Moderate: around 30% of net income
- Aggressive: around 35% of net income
Results are shown both as monthly amounts and adjusted to your rent payment schedule (weekly, fortnightly, or monthly) using simple prorating.
Assumptions
- Income entered is net (take-home) income.
- Percentages are general budgeting guidelines, not rules.
- No adjustment is made for location-specific rent controls.
- No adjustment is made for personal debt, savings goals, or lifestyle choices.
- Rent and income are assumed to be stable over time.
Real affordability depends on many factors beyond rent alone.
Limitations
This calculator intentionally keeps things simple. It does not account for:
- Utility bills, council tax, or other housing-related costs
- Debt repayments or credit obligations
- Childcare, dependents, or shared household finances
- Local housing market conditions
- Emergency savings or long-term financial goals
Spending a higher share of income on rent may be common in cities with housing shortages, but it increases financial risk.
Accuracy and intent
The goal of this site is transparency, not optimisation. The calculator is meant to show trade-offs clearly rather than to encourage spending at the maximum possible level.
If the results feel uncomfortable, that often reflects broader housing market pressures rather than an error in calculation.
Contact
For corrections or feedback, email: [email protected]
Please do not send personal financial documents or sensitive information.
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Any recommendations are intended to be general and educational in nature.