Calculator · updated 10 November 2026
Rent affordability calculator
Find the income a tenant usually needs to pass referencing, or the maximum rent for a given income.
Key facts
- Many referencing companies look for yearly income of about 30 times the monthly rent.
- Guarantors are often asked for about 36 times the monthly rent.
- Rules vary between agents and referencing firms; this is a guide, not a guarantee.
£
£
× rent
× rent
Yearly income needed
–
Guarantor income needed–
Max rent for this income–
Rent as share of income–
Why the 30x rule exists
A yearly income of 30 times the monthly rent means rent takes about 40% of gross pay. Referencing firms use it as a quick check that the tenant can keep paying. Joint tenants' incomes are usually added together.
Fair treatment
Under the Renters' Rights Act, landlords in England can't refuse tenants simply because they receive benefits or have children. Assess each applicant on their actual ability to pay.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 30x rule a legal requirement?
No. It's a common referencing guideline, and agents and referencing firms set their own criteria.
Sources
Sources last checked 10 November 2026. See all our sources and how we keep pages up to date.