Rent-to-income ratio calculator
The 3× income rule is the most common tenant-screening threshold in the US, and the 30% ratio is the standard affordability line. Enter an applicant's gross income and your rent, and both checks run instantly — along with the minimum income the rent implies.
Rent-to-income ratio calculator
| Income multiple of rent | common screen: 3× rent | |
| Passes 3× income rule | ||
| Passes 30% affordability rule | ||
| Minimum income for this rent (3×) |
Frequently asked questions
What is the 3x rent rule?
An applicant's gross monthly income should be at least three times the monthly rent — $5,400/mo income for an $1,800 rent. It's a screening convention, not a law, and roughly equals a 33% rent-to-income ratio.
Is it legal to require 3x income?
Generally yes, applied consistently to all applicants. Important exception: many states and cities with source-of-income protection require counting vouchers correctly — for a Section 8 applicant, the multiplier can lawfully apply only to the tenant's share of rent in many jurisdictions. Check local law before rejecting voucher holders on income ratio.
Should I use gross or net income?
Convention is gross (pre-tax) income — that's what the 3× rule and the 30% rule both assume. Be consistent across applicants, and document income with pay stubs, offer letters, or bank statements.
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