RENT VS BUY: BAY AREA

Bay Area: Rent vs Own • Disen Cai Real Estate Group

Renting in the Bay Area? See how quickly it adds up.


Use the images below to compare rising rent to a fixed mortgage. In about 4 years, average rent surpasses a $5,000/mo mortgage.

Assumptions: $4,000 starting rent, +4%/yr, $5,000 fixed mortgage

Rent vs Mortgage Over Time (Monthly Payment)

Graph: Rent vs Mortgage Over Time

10‑Year Projection

10-Year Projection Table

Benefits of Ownership

Your payment builds equity and can grow with appreciation.

Benefits to a Landlord (When You Rent)

Your rent increases their equity and funds their asset’s appreciation.

Stability vs. Uncertainty

Fixed mortgage = predictable. Rising rents = budget creep year after year.

Get Your Homeownership Report

Tell us your current rent and timeline. We’ll send a personalized path with options across San Mateo County + the Peninsula.


Prefer a quick note? Use the Contact Us form below.

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