Break-Even Analysis

Refinance Break-Even Calculator

The break-even point is how long it takes for your monthly savings to cover the cost of refinancing. If you plan to stay in your home past this point, refinancing likely makes sense.

Current Loan

$
%
yrs

New Loan

%
$

Total Cost Over Time

Keep current loan
Refinance

Borderline — depends on your plans

Your monthly payment drops by $223, but it takes 27 months to break even. Only proceed if you're staying long-term.

Current payment$2,586/mo
New payment$2,363/mo
Monthly savings+$223/mo

Break-even

2.2 Yrs
(27 months)
Lifetime net savings
vs. keeping current loan
+$60,973

Estimates based on your inputs. Actual results may vary. Terms →

What your results mean

By refinancing to a 6.5% rate on a 25-year term, you save $223 per month. It will take 27 months to recover your $6,000 in closing costs. Over the life of the loans, you will save a net total of $60,973.

Should you refinance?

Worth considering if:

  • You plan to stay in the home past the 2.2-year break-even point
  • Your rate drops by at least 0.75%
  • You can roll closing costs into the loan or afford them upfront

Think twice if:

  • You plan to sell or move within 3 years
  • The new term resets your amortization significantly
  • Closing costs exceed 27 months of savings

Learn more

Rates shown are for illustration. Contact your lender for a formal quote.

How break-even works

Refinancing costs money upfront (closing costs: typically $3,000–8,000). Your monthly savings from a lower rate gradually recover this cost.

Break-even = closing costs ÷ monthly savings

Example: $6,000 closing costs ÷ $200/month savings = 30 months to break even.

If you plan to stay longer than 30 months, refinancing makes financial sense.

Estimates based on your inputs. Actual results may vary. Terms →