Auto Affordability Calculator

How much car can you really afford — not just what the dealer says

The dealer-approved price is usually too much. Most people buy cars that eat up 15-20% of their gross income. Financial advisors recommend keeping car expenses under 10% of gross income, or 50% of your net take-home.

This calculator shows what you can actually afford based on your income, existing debt, down payment, and the true cost of ownership (payment + insurance + gas + maintenance).

Your Finances

Gross Annual Income ($)

Monthly Debt Payments ($)

Down Payment ($)

Trade-In Value ($)

Loan Assumptions

Credit Score Range

Loan Term (months)

Est. Insurance ($/mo)

Gas/Maintenance ($/mo)

Your Car Budget

Max Monthly Payment

—

total car budget

Max Loan Amount

—

with down + trade

Total Purchase Price

—

most you should spend

Insurance/Gas/MTN

—

fixed ownership costs

Available for Payment

—

for loan + interest

Income Spent on Car

—

of gross income

Estimates only. Actual rates vary by credit profile. Get pre-approved before visiting dealerships.