Free Calculator
Renting or buying in California? Compare the real monthly numbers side by side.
Simplified estimate. Owning cost = principal & interest + property tax + insurance/HOA. It ignores maintenance, tax deductions, and home appreciation, which a full analysis includes.
Buying usually costs more month-to-month than renting up front, but builds equity and can appreciate — especially in California's high-value markets. This tool compares your rent to an estimated ownership payment (principal, interest, property tax, and insurance/HOA). For a complete picture we also weigh maintenance, tax benefits, and expected appreciation. See our rent vs buy guide and affordability calculator.
Month-to-month, renting is often cheaper up front in California, but buying builds equity and can appreciate. Use the calculator to compare your specific numbers, then call us to factor in tax benefits and appreciation.
Property taxes, homeowners insurance, any HOA dues, and maintenance. This tool includes taxes and insurance/HOA; a full analysis adds maintenance and tax effects.
Often around 3–5 years, so appreciation and equity outweigh buying and selling costs — but it varies by market and price.
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