What percentage of your pre-tax pay should you typically spend on rent or mortgage?

Typically, financial experts recommend that individuals spend about 30% of their pre-tax income on housing costs, which include rent or mortgage payments. This guideline serves as a standard benchmark to help balance housing affordability with other financial obligations.

Spending around 30% allows individuals to maintain a budget that can accommodate necessary expenses like groceries, healthcare, savings, and discretionary spending. By following this guideline, many people can ensure that they do not overextend their finances on housing, which is often the largest expense in a household's budget.

While there are variations in recommendations based on personal circumstances, a significant number of financial advisors assert that keeping housing costs to this percentage can help promote long-term financial stability and health.