Rent Affordability Calculator UK
Work out how much rent you can comfortably afford using the 30% of income guideline and the referencing rule letting agents use.
Recommended maximum rent
£750.00/mo
The more cautious of the two guidelines below
- 30% of income guideline
- £750.00/mo
- Letting agent rule (income ÷ 30)
- £1,000.00/mo
- Your gross monthly income
- £2,500.00
How much rent can you afford?
A common budgeting guideline is to spend no more than about 30% of your gross (before-tax) income on rent. This calculator applies that rule to your income, and also checks the affordability test many UK letting agents use, where your annual income usually needs to be at least 30 times the monthly rent.
It shows both figures and recommends the lower of the two, adjusted for any regular debt payments, so you get a realistic and cautious estimate.
Passing a referencing check
When you apply for a tenancy, agents often run affordability referencing. A widely used rule is that your annual income should be at least 30 times the monthly rent, which is the same as the rent being no more than around 40% of net pay for many people.
If you fall short, a guarantor, paying rent in advance, or a joint tenancy that combines incomes can help you qualify.
Worked example
On a £30,000 salary, the 30% guideline suggests up to £750 a month, while the 30x referencing rule allows up to £1,000 a month.
The calculator recommends the more cautious £750 figure, and lowers it further if you have regular debt repayments.
Please note: This is a budgeting guide, not a guarantee of tenancy approval. Letting agents apply their own criteria.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use gross or net income?
The 30% guideline and the 30x referencing rule are both based on gross (before-tax) income, so enter your salary before deductions.
Why are there two figures?
The 30% rule is a budgeting guideline, while the 30x rule is what many letting agents actually test. Showing both helps you budget and pass referencing.
Can I combine incomes?
Yes. Add a partner or housemate income in the additional income field to see the combined affordability for a joint tenancy.
Does it include bills?
No. Rent is only part of your housing cost. Budget separately for council tax, energy and water on top of the rent figure.
Figures last reviewed on 13 August 2025.
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