Example comparison
These figures are rough examples only. Use the full calculator for your own rent, income, and situation.
| Example | Estimate | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 1,200 monthly rent | 3,600 gross monthly income | 1,200 x 3. |
| 1,500 monthly rent | 4,500 gross monthly income | 1,500 x 3. |
| 2,000 monthly rent | 6,000 gross monthly income | 2,000 x 3. |
How to calculate the 3x rent rule
Multiply the monthly rent by 3. If the apartment is 1,500 per month, a 3x example points to 4,500 in gross monthly income, or about 54,000 per year.
Why it is only a rough guide
Not every landlord uses 3x rent. Some use 2.5x, some use a different threshold, and some look more broadly at credit, savings, rental history, employment, and background checks.
What else can affect an application
Income is only one part of the application. A property manager may also review credit history, debt load, job stability, move-in funds, past rentals, roommate income, and whether a co-signer is available.
Helpful next step
For your own numbers, use the relevant RentReadyCheck calculator. It can show rough estimates and keeps everything in your browser.