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The decision to buy or rent isn’t just about today’s costs—it’s about your future plans, financial stability, and lifestyle goals.

According to ATTOM’s 2025 Rental Affordability Report, in most U.S. markets, homeownership costs less of a person’s wages than renting a comparable property. But does that mean buying is always the right choice? Not necessarily.

In this guide, we’ll break down what the data says, when buying makes sense, when renting is the better option, and what you should consider before making your move.

What the Data Says

Every year, ATTOM analyzes home prices, rental costs, and wages across hundreds of U.S. counties to determine which option—buying or renting—is more affordable. Its 2025 report found three key takeaways:

Buying a home is cheaper than renting a 3-bedroom in nearly 60% of markets. On a monthly basis, homeownership costs (mortgage, insurance, property taxes) take up a smaller percentage of income than renting a three-bedroom home.
Both renting and buying are still expensive. Housing—whether you’re paying rent or a mortgage—takes up 25-60% of the average worker’s wages, meaning affordability is still a major challenge.
Down payments are an obstacle to homeownership. While monthly costs may favor buyers, homeownership requires a large upfront investment. Down payments and closing costs need to be factored into your decision.

When Buying a Home is the Right Move

While home prices continue to rise, ATTOM’s data shows that monthly homeownership costs are still lower than a 3-bedroom rental in nearly 60% of the country. That’s because rent prices have also increased, making it harder for renters to save.

So when should you consider buying?

You Plan to Stay Put for a Few Years

Real estate is a long-term investment. If you sell too soon, you could lose money on transaction costs, even if your home’s value has gone up. A five-year commitment gives you time to build equity and offset upfront costs like closing fees and moving expenses.

You Can Afford the Upfront Costs

One of the biggest hurdles to homeownership is the down payment and other upfront costs. If you can comfortably cover a down payment, closing costs, and emergency savings without stretching your budget too thin, buying makes more sense.

You Want to Build Wealth Over Time

Renting is like paying for a service—you get a place to live, but you don’t gain any ownership. When you buy a home, every mortgage payment increases your equity, which can serve as a financial asset in the future.

You’re Ready for More Space

If you’re currently renting a one or two-bedroom apartment but need a three-bedroom home, buying might be the best move. According to ATTOM’s report, the cost of renting a three-bedroom home eats up more of the average worker’s wages than the cost of owning a comparable home in nearly 60% of the country.

However, if you’re comfortable in a one or two-bedroom rental, renting could still be the cheaper option. Smaller rental units typically cost less than the monthly expenses of owning a house, especially when you factor in maintenance, insurance, and property taxes.

When Renting is the Smarter Choice

Even though homeownership may be more affordable in the long run, renting still has advantages—especially if flexibility and financial security are top priorities.

You Need Flexibility

If you’re unsure about your job situation, relationship status, or long-term plans, renting gives you the freedom to move without the stress of selling a home.

You Don't Have a Large Emergency Fund

Homeownership comes with unexpected expenses—repairs, maintenance, and property taxes. If you don’t have three to six months’ worth of expenses saved, it might be better to rent until you have a financial cushion.

You Live in an Expensive Housing Market

In some areas, home prices are so high that buying requires a huge down payment and a large chunk of your monthly income. If mortgage payments, property taxes, and insurance would stretch your budget too thin, renting may be the safer option.

You Don't Want the Responsibility of Maintenance

Owning a home means handling repairs and ongoing maintenance—which can add up quickly. If you prefer to call a landlord when something breaks instead of dealing with repairs yourself, renting is the hassle-free option.

Key Takeaways: Should You Buy or Rent?

The best choice depends on your financial situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals:

Buy if you want stability, are financially prepared, and plan to stay in one place.
Rent if you need flexibility, aren’t ready for homeownership costs, or live in a high-cost area.

Still unsure which option is best for you? Let’s chat about your goals and what makes the most sense for your situation! [Click here] to set up a discovery call about your real estate goals.