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Rent budget tool

Can you really afford this rent?

This page helps you pressure-test the rent before you apply, renew, or decide whether moving is the better option.

See rent as a share of your yearly income
Get a simple comfort rating in seconds
Use it before signing, renewing or comparing suburbs

Country

Using Australia terms and AUD amounts.

Instant estimate

Rent vs income36.7%
RatingStretched

This uses gross income. Real affordability can change after tax, debt and living costs.

Check the final rule with your state or territory tenancy authority and your lease papers.

This is general information only and not legal or financial advice.

Best for

You are comparing two rentals
You just got a rent increase
You want to know if moving may be cheaper overall

Use the result well

01Run the affordability check with combined household income if more than one person pays rent.
02Compare the result with moving costs, bond needs and the new weekly budget.
03If the rent feels stretched, review cheaper suburbs or negotiate before signing.

Quick answer

See whether a rent payment looks manageable by comparing it with annual household income in seconds.

A $550 weekly rent on an $85,000 annual income is about 33.6% of gross income.

What this estimate means

A common rule of thumb is that rent above 30% of gross income can feel stretched, but the real answer depends on debt, household size, commute costs and how much moving would cost instead. Use the result as a fast pressure test before applying or renewing.

Example scenario

A $550 weekly rent on an $85,000 annual income is about 33.6% of gross income.

Good next pages

Compare a rent increaseEstimate moving costsRead the affordability guide

Related guides

Rent Affordability Guide AustraliaHow to compare rent with income, moving costs and your household budget.First-Time Renter GuideA starter guide to bond, rent, inspections and moving costs.Rental Application CostsCosts to prepare for when applying and moving into a rental.

Frequently asked questions

Does this use gross or take-home income?

It uses annual gross income. Your take-home budget may be tighter after tax and deductions.

Is 30% always unaffordable?

No. It is a broad benchmark, not a rule for every renter.

Can households use combined income?

Yes. Enter the combined annual income for the people contributing to rent.