Calculator

Rent vs buy — the monthly outlay, honestly compared

A cash-flow comparison with the caveats attached — because this decision is more than a spreadsheet.

Last verified: July 23, 2026

Monthly rent for a comparable home ($)

Purchase price ($)

Down payment ($)

Mortgage rate (%)

Property tax ($ / year)

Maintenance reserve (% of home value / year)

Condo fees if applicable ($ / month)

Owning — monthly outlay: —
Renting — monthly outlay: —

Runs entirely on your device — nothing you type is sent or stored.

What this comparison deliberately leaves out

Full rent-vs-buy models predict home appreciation, investment returns on the renter's spare cash, rent inflation and your holding period — four guesses multiplied together. We compare the observable part instead: what each path costs per month right now. Around that number, hold the real trade-offs: part of every mortgage payment builds equity while rent doesn't; owners carry repair surprises, transaction costs (buying and later selling) and concentration risk; renters keep flexibility and predictable outlays. Buying costs money to enter and exit, so short horizons usually favour renting; long horizons often favour owning — but "usually" and "often" are doing honest work in that sentence.

Ottawa Property Guide is an independent information publication — not a brokerage, real-estate agent, or financial advisor. Content is general educational information, not professional advice. Full disclaimer.