Worked examples
| Rent | Incomes | Split | Each pays |
|---|---|---|---|
| $2,400 | $7,000 and $3,000 | 70/30 | $1,680 and $720 |
| $1,800 | $4,500 and $4,500 | 50/50 | $900 and $900 |
| £1,500 | £3,000 and £2,000 | 60/40 | £900 and £600 |
Three methods
- 50/50: simple and neutral when incomes are similar.
- By income: fair when there is a gap; you both keep the same share of your pay.
- By space or use: if one partner uses a room as an office or chose a pricier place, they can pay a bit more.
Before you sign the lease
- Security deposit: note who paid what so it comes back in the same proportion.
- Who signs: whoever is on the lease is liable to the landlord. Ideally both of you sign.
- Utilities and fees: agree whether they are included or split separately.
When one earns much more
Many couples pick a home based on the higher income. A proportional split keeps the lower earner from spending almost everything on housing. Try your numbers in the rent split calculator.
Every month, without effort
In Couplesplit, rent is a fixed payment that records itself on its due date with your split rule. If one partner pays it, the monthly balance shows what the other owes, and you settle with one transfer.
Questions
What percentage of income should go to rent?
A common guideline is under 30% of combined income. With $10,000 a month together, that is up to $3,000.
Is splitting rent 50/50 unfair?
Not if you earn about the same. If one partner earns much more, 50/50 can leave the other with little for anything else.
How do we split the deposit when we move out?
In the same proportion you paid it, minus any deductions the landlord makes.