Renting vs. Buying: How to Decide With Real Numbers

Buying isn't always better. Here's the framework we use to compare the true cost of each.

James Whitfield

Published Sep 9, 2026 · 11 min read

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The rent-vs-buy decision depends on how long you'll stay, local prices, interest rates and what you'd do with the down payment otherwise.

Count the unrecoverable costs

For renters, that's rent. For owners, it's mortgage interest, property taxes, insurance, maintenance and the opportunity cost of your equity.

#real estate #housing #mortgage

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James Whitfield

Wealth Correspondent

James writes about net worth, real estate and financial independence for readers playing the long game.

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Count the unrecoverable costs

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