Your income
Electric, gas, water, internet. HUD’s 30% guideline includes utilities.
Rent you can afford
Estimates only, based on the numbers you enter and the rules shown. Not financial advice. Your lender or provider will use its own checks.
Where the 30% rule comes from
US housing policy has long used 30% of income as the limit for affordable housing. HUD calls households that pay more than 30% of their income for housing, including utilities, “cost-burdened”, and those paying more than 50% “severely cost-burdened”.
Sources: HUD: defining housing affordability
How to afford living alone
- Add up the full monthly cost: rent, utilities, internet, renter’s insurance, food, transport.
- Plan for move-in costs: often a deposit plus first month’s rent, and furniture.
- Put it all into the budget planner and check the 50/30/20 split.
- If the numbers don’t work yet, a roommate, a cheaper area or a side hustle can close the gap.
Struggling with rent already? See official rental help in our Bill Help Finder.
Frequently asked questions
How much rent can I afford on $50,000 a year?
Under the 30% rule, $50,000 a year is about $4,167 a month before tax, so up to about $1,250 a month for rent plus utilities.
Is the 30% rule based on gross or take-home pay?
HUD’s measure uses gross (before-tax) income. If your take-home pay is much lower, for example because of high deductions, aim lower.
Do landlords use the 30% rule?
Many landlords set their own income requirements. Check with the landlord or property manager.