How much rent can you afford?

The 30% rule suggests spending no more than 30% of your gross income on rent. Spending more than 30% is considered "rental stress." However, this rule has limitations — it doesn't account for your actual expenses, savings goals or lifestyle. Our calculator uses your real budget to give a more accurate picture.

Rental stress occurs when a household spends more than 30% of their gross income on rent. In Australia's current rental market, rental stress is widespread — particularly in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. If you are in rental stress, consider looking at suburbs further from the CBD, smaller properties or share accommodation.

On a $70,000 gross salary your take-home pay is approximately $54,000 after tax. The 30% rule suggests a maximum rent of around $1,750/month or $404/week. However your actual affordable rent depends on your other expenses and savings goals. Use our calculator above for a personalised figure.

A rental bond (security deposit) is typically 4 weeks rent in most Australian states. You must also pay rent in advance (usually 2 weeks). So to move into a new rental you typically need 6 weeks rent upfront — a significant amount that requires advance saving.