Rent vs Buy Calculator: Should I Rent or Buy in Washington D.C.?
Here's the data you need to decide — based on Washington D.C.'s median home prices, rents, property taxes, and market trends.
Average Rent vs Home Price in Washington D.C.: Market Snapshot
Median Home Price
$620,000
Median Rent
$2,400/mo
Price-to-Rent Ratio
21.5
Favors rentingProperty Tax
0.6%
Home Appreciation
3.0%/yr
Avg HOA
$500/mo
Cost of Renting vs Buying in Washington D.C.: Monthly Cost Comparison
Here's what it costs to buy vs rent in Washington D.C. 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 Washington D.C.? Key Insights
High price-to-rent ratio (21.5) — Renting is likely the better financial move unless you plan to stay 8+ years or expect above-average appreciation.
Significant HOA fees ($500/mo) — Common in Washington D.C.. This is a non-recoverable cost that can significantly delay your breakeven point.
Run the full calculator with Washington D.C.'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 Washington D.C.
Our calculator is pre-loaded with Washington D.C.'s market data. Adjust your down payment, interest rate, and timeline to find your exact answer.
Use the Washington D.C. Rent vs Buy Calculator