Renting vs. Buying: What Pays Off in 2026?

The eternal question – to rent or to buy?

Advantages of Renting

• Flexibility to change location
• No down payment required
• Repairs are landlord responsibility
• Lower financial risk

Advantages of Buying

• Long-term investment — property appreciates
• Stability — your home, your rules
• Mortgage payments build equity

Example Calculation

Renting a 2-room apartment in Vilnius for 500 EUR/month costs 30000 EUR over 5 years. Buying with a mortgage costs ~450 EUR/month but builds equity.

When Is Renting Better?

• If staying less than 3 years
• If you lack a down payment
• If you want flexibility