Rental Vacancy Loss Calculator

What empty units are actually costing your portfolio

What is this? Every month a unit sits vacant costs you the rent PLUS turnover costs (cleaning, repairs, marketing, lost rent during showings). This calculator shows the true annualized cost of vacancy — not just lost rent.

The math: A unit vacant 1 month per year sounds like 8.3% vacancy. But if you also lose 3 weeks of showings between tenants, you're actually losing 11-12% of potential income.

Who it's for: Landlords and property investors evaluating whether to reduce rents (faster leasing) vs. holding out for higher rent.

Portfolio Data

Monthly Rent ($)

Number of Units

Avg. Vacancy Per Turnover (weeks)

Turnover Cost ($)

Annual Vacancy Rate (%)

Property Tax + Insurance /year ($)

Vacancy Cost Analysis

Annual Vacancy Loss

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Turnover Cost/Year

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Total Vacancy Cost

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Cost Per Unit/Year

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Effective Vacancy Cost

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Net Operating Income

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Estimates based on averages. Actual vacancy varies by market, property condition, and management quality.

Property Management & Tenant Tools

Tools that pair well with this calculator — selected by our team.

Stessa →

Autonomous property management, vacancy tracking

Baselane →

Banking for landlords — rent collection, bookkeeping

Tool	Best For	Network
Stessa	Autonomous property management, vacancy tracking	Direct
Baselane	Banking for landlords	Direct

We may earn a commission if you click above. Calculator is free to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an acceptable vacancy rate?

5-8% annual vacancy is normal for single-family homes. 8-10% for multi-family. 0% is actually a red flag — you are probably underpriced. Budget for vacancies by setting aside 1 months rent per year per unit.

How do I reduce vacancy?

Price competitively (check comparable rents monthly), maintain property quality, respond to inquiries within hours, use professional photography, list on Zillow plus 5+ platforms, and consider offering move-in specials instead of permanent rent reductions.