How to Calculate Rent Increase Affordability

What is Rent Increase Affordability?

The Rent Increase Affordability Check applies the standard 30% rent-to-income rule to a proposed new rent. Rents above 30% are "cost-burdened" per HUD; over 50% is "severely cost-burdened." Tools like this help renters evaluate lease renewals against income reality.

Formula

New Ratio = Proposed Rent / Monthly Income × 100

Step-by-Step Guide

1Enter required inputs
2Calculator outputs key result and related metrics
3Review and compare scenarios

Worked Examples

Input

$5,000 income, $1,500 current, $1,700 proposed

Result

34% new ratio — over 30% threshold

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✕Forgetting to include all relevant inputs
✕Using outdated reference values

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