Rent vs Buy Calculator: Should I Rent or Buy in Seattle?
Here's the data you need to decide — based on Seattle's median home prices, rents, property taxes, and market trends.
Average Rent vs Home Price in Seattle: Market Snapshot
Median Home Price
$830,000
Median Rent
$2,400/mo
Price-to-Rent Ratio
28.8
Favors rentingProperty Tax
0.9%
Home Appreciation
4.0%/yr
Avg HOA
$450/mo
Cost of Renting vs Buying in Seattle: Monthly Cost Comparison
Here's what it costs to buy vs rent in Seattle with default assumptions (20% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year mortgage):
Estimated Buying Cost
Estimated Renting Cost
Is It Cheaper to Rent or Buy in Seattle? Key Insights
High price-to-rent ratio (28.8) — Renting is likely the better financial move unless you plan to stay 8+ years or expect above-average appreciation.
Significant HOA fees ($450/mo) — Common in Seattle. This is a non-recoverable cost that can significantly delay your breakeven point.
Strong appreciation (4.0%/yr) — Home values are growing faster than average, which accelerates the breakeven point for buyers.
Run the full calculator with Seattle's data pre-loaded to see your exact breakeven year based on your down payment, income, and timeline.
Use Our Rent vs Buy Calculator for Seattle
Our calculator is pre-loaded with Seattle's market data. Adjust your down payment, interest rate, and timeline to find your exact answer.
Use the Seattle Rent vs Buy Calculator