Rent vs Buy Calculator
Compare the financial outcome of renting and investing versus buying a home.
Renting & investing looks better by
$334,978
After 10 years, comparing estimated net worth under each option
Mortgage repay.
$3,430
Rent (monthly)
$2,383
| Buy — property value | $1,036,171 |
| Buy — remaining loan balance | -$471,119 |
| Buy — net worth | $565,052 |
| Rent & invest — net worth | $900,030 |
This calculator provides estimates for general information only and should not be considered financial, tax or legal advice. Check official Australian Government sources for current rates and rules.
How the Rent vs buy calculator works
This calculator compares two paths over the same number of years. In the “buy” path, your deposit and repayments build equity in a property that grows in value. In the “rent & invest” path, you keep renting, invest your deposit, and invest any monthly difference between what a buyer would pay (mortgage plus property costs) and what you actually pay in rent.
At the end of your chosen timeframe, it compares the estimated net worth built under each path — property value minus any remaining loan for buying, versus the projected value of your investments for renting. Both figures depend heavily on the growth and return assumptions you enter, which are never guaranteed, so treat this as a what-if tool rather than a prediction.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on your deposit, local property growth, rent levels and how long you plan to stay. This calculator compares the estimated net financial position of both paths over your chosen timeframe — it isn't personal advice.