FreeCalculators

Cap Rate vs Cash-on-Cash Calculator

Evaluate your rental property investments with our cap rate and cash-on-cash return calculator for quick and accurate results.

Investment · Reviewed by FreeCalculators Editorial · Updated 2026-09-01

How it works

The Cap Rate vs Cash-on-Cash Calculator helps you assess the profitability of your rental property investments by calculating two key metrics: the capitalization rate (cap rate) and the cash-on-cash return. The cap rate is determined by dividing the net operating income (NOI) of the property by its purchase price. For example, if your property generates an NOI of $30,000 and you purchased it for $400,000, the cap rate would be calculated as follows: Cap Rate = NOI / Price = $30,000 / $400,000 = 0.075 or 7.5%. This indicates the annual return on investment based on the property's income relative to its price. The cash-on-cash return measures the return on the actual cash invested, calculated by dividing the NOI by the cash invested (purchase price minus any financing). If your down payment is $100,000, the cash-on-cash return would be: Cash-on-Cash Return = NOI / Cash Invested = $30,000 / $100,000 = 0.30 or 30%. These calculations provide valuable insights into the performance of your real estate investments.

Tips

  • Always consider local market conditions when evaluating cap rates to ensure your investment aligns with regional trends.
  • Use historical data for NOI to make more accurate projections for future income and expenses.
  • Factor in potential property appreciation when assessing long-term investment viability alongside cap rates.
  • Regularly update your calculations as property values and rental incomes change to maintain an accurate understanding of your investment's performance.

Frequently asked questions

What does a cap rate of 7.5% mean?
A cap rate of 7.5% indicates that you can expect a 7.5% return on your investment based on the property's net operating income relative to its purchase price.
How is cash-on-cash return different from cap rate?
Cash-on-cash return focuses on the cash you actually invested in the property, while cap rate considers the total property price, providing insights into different aspects of investment performance.
What is a good cash-on-cash return?
A good cash-on-cash return typically ranges from 8% to 12%, but this can vary based on market conditions and individual investment goals.
How often should I recalculate these metrics?
It's advisable to recalculate these metrics annually or whenever there are significant changes in rental income, property value, or expenses.