Monthly rent from income

Monthly rent estimate = gross monthly income x 0.30

For $6,000 gross monthly income, the 30 percent estimate is $1,800. That is a starting point, not a promise that the apartment fits your take-home budget.

Income needed for rent

Annual income target = monthly rent x 40

For $2,000 monthly rent, the 40x rule points to about $80,000 in annual income. Some landlords use different requirements, so confirm the actual listing rules.

Quick monthly rent examples

Gross monthly income30% rent estimateApprox. annual income
$4,000$1,200$48,000
$5,500$1,650$66,000
$7,500$2,250$90,000
Best next check: Open the full rent affordability calculator to include take-home pay, utilities, debt, savings, roommate split, and move-in cash.