LivableMeter
Updated for 2026

Can You Actually Afford to Live in Any City?

LivableMeter instantly calculates rent affordability, cost of living, and salary requirements so you can make smarter relocation decisions.

Check Your AffordabilityExplore Cities
Compare 50+ US cities
2026 cost-of-living estimates
Instant, free calculation

Explore Cities

Compare cost of living across popular U.S. metros

Dallas, TX

Avg 1BR Rent$1,789
Rent on $70k (30%)$1,750
State TaxNone!
View details

Austin, TX

Avg 1BR Rent$1,504
Rent on $70k (30%)$1,750
State TaxNone!
View details

Charlotte, NC

Avg 1BR Rent$1,560
Rent on $70k (30%)$1,750
State Tax3.99%
View details

Denver, CO

Avg 1BR Rent$2,000
Rent on $70k (30%)$1,750
State Tax4.25%
View details

Popular Calculations

Quick answers to the most common rent affordability questions

$70k in Dallas

Affordable rent: $1,750/mo

$80k in Austin

Affordable rent: $2,000/mo

$60k in Charlotte

Affordable rent: $1,500/mo

$100k in Denver

Affordable rent: $2,500/mo

$50k in Dallas

Affordable rent: $1,250/mo

$70k in Austin

Affordable rent: $1,750/mo

Salary Guides

See how far your salary goes

$70K Salary Guide

City Comparisons

Side-by-side cost breakdowns

Dallas vs AustinCharlotte vs Denver

How The 30% Rule Works

1

Enter Your Salary

Start with your annual gross income before taxes and deductions.

2

Pick Your City

Select a city to factor in local taxes, rent averages, and cost of living.

3

Get Your Number

See your affordable rent range at 25%, 30%, and 35% plus a full budget breakdown.