DAVID PETERSONFATHOM REALTY RI & MA

Rent vs Buy Calculator (Rhode Island)

Find your breakeven year: when buying beats renting for you.

$2,200/mo
$475,000
$50,000
6.500%

The break-even

Renting stays cheaper for 12+ years

On these numbers in Providence, renting keeps more money in your pocket across the whole 12-year window.

Net cost by year (lower is better)

Total money out, minus the equity you would recover selling that year. The cheaper option is highlighted.

Year 3Renting cheaper
Rent
$73,526
Buy
$131,195
Year 5Renting cheaper
Rent
$125,993
Buy
$188,739
Year 7Renting cheaper
Rent
$181,387
Buy
$244,936
Year 10Renting cheaper
Rent
$270,296
Buy
$326,239

Estimate only, not financial advice. Assumes home value grows about 3% a year, roughly 1% of value in annual maintenance, a 6% cost to sell, and that a renter invests the would-be down payment for comparison. Property tax rates are approximate and change yearly (verify with the town assessor). Your real rate, insurance, and closing costs depend on your credit, loan program, and the specific home. For a number built around your finances, let's talk.

Want the real number for your situation?

These tools give you an honest estimate. For a precise, no-pressure plan built around your finances and the towns you are considering, let's talk.

(401) 543-0461

DAVID PETERSON

Licensed Real Estate Agent • Fathom Realty

Bringing agency-grade digital marketing, professional SEO, and high-performance business negotiation to real estate clients across Rhode Island and Southern Massachusetts.

Rhode Island HQ (GBP Local):Fathom Realty, 166 Valley Street, Providence, RI 02909
Massachusetts Branch:Fathom Realty, Licensed in Massachusetts, serving Southeastern MA
Direct Line (Voice & Text):(401) 543-0461
Hours:Monday – Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST
RI License: RES.0047177MA License: 9577507-RE-S

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© 2026 David Peterson, REALTOR®. All rights reserved. Licensed real estate agent affiliated with Fathom Realty. Licensed in Rhode Island (License # RES.0047177) and Massachusetts (License # 9577507-RE-S).

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