What is the 3x income rule?
The 3x income rule is a screening guideline. It means a renter’s gross monthly income, before taxes, should be at least three times the monthly rent. LeaseRunner calls it “a widely used rental screening guideline, not a universal law.” Each community sets its own standard.
The rule is easy to apply. Multiply rent by three. The result is the monthly income many landlords look for. Read the plain definition in our glossary: 3x income rule and rent-to-income ratio.
Centro’s own criteria come from the office. This post explains the general rule. It does not state what Centro requires.
What does 3x mean on a $699 studio?
On a $699 studio, 3x means $2,097 in gross monthly income. That is about $25,164 a year before taxes. The $699 figure is the low end of Centro’s 2nd floor range, as listed on 2026-11-02. Prices change daily.
The math is $699 x 3 = $2,097. For a year, $2,097 x 12 = $25,164.
If you will pay $25 a month for one pet, rent plus pet rent is $724. The same rule gives $2,172. We do not know whether a community counts pet rent in the test, so ask.
What about the top of Centro’s price range?
At $1,114, the top of the 1st floor range, 3x means $3,342 a month, or $40,104 a year. The 2nd floor tops out at $1,099, which gives $3,297. Both are listed as of 2026-11-02 and can change.
| Monthly rent | 2.5x | 3x | 4x | 3x per year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $699 (low end, 2nd floor) | $1,748 | $2,097 | $2,796 | $25,164 |
| $724 ($699 plus one pet’s rent) | $1,810 | $2,172 | $2,896 | $26,064 |
| $1,099 (high end, 2nd floor) | $2,748 | $3,297 | $4,396 | $39,564 |
| $1,114 (high end, 1st floor) | $2,785 | $3,342 | $4,456 | $40,104 |
Figures are rounded to the nearest dollar. The 2.5x and 4x columns show other ratios that some landlords use. We do not know which, if any, Centro uses.
Why does the same studio have such a wide price range?
Rent varies by unit and by day. Centro lists 1st floor studios from $729 to $1,114 and 2nd floor studios from $699 to $1,099. The posted number for your unit decides the income line, not the “starting at” number.
See the floor plans page for current pricing. For the difference between a starting price and a monthly total, read starting price vs. total monthly cost.
How do I check my own number?
Use this order. It takes five minutes.
- Write down your gross monthly income, before taxes.
- Divide it by 3. That is the highest rent the 3x rule allows.
- Add the pet rent if you have a pet, then compare to the rent for the unit you want.
- Ask the office which proof of income it accepts.
- Ask before you apply, because the $50 application fee is non-refundable.
Our guide to income needed to rent in Austin covers the wider picture. The approval process guide explains what happens after you apply.
What if I am near the line?
Communities handle this in different ways. LeaseRunner lists a strong credit score, rental history, a larger deposit and a co-signer as things some landlords weigh. None of that is a Centro policy. Ask what the office accepts, and ask in writing if you can.
Learn what a screening covers and what approval with conditions can mean. See also deposits for fees you pay.
Why do some communities use a ratio at all?
Communities use a ratio so they can apply one clear test to every application. LeaseRunner says the 3x standard generally keeps rent at about 30 to 35 percent of gross income, which leaves room for food, transportation and savings. That is a general reason, not a statement about Centro.
For you, the ratio is also a budget check. If rent plus pet rent takes more than a third of your gross pay, other costs may feel tight. Use the table above as a quick gut check before you tour.
What documents might I need?
Offices commonly ask for proof of income. LeaseRunner lists recent pay stubs, tax returns for the self-employed, bank statements and a signed offer letter for a new job. Centro’s list may differ.
Gather these before you apply:
- Your last two to three pay stubs, or an offer letter
- A photo ID
- Last year’s tax return if you are self-employed
- Rental history, with contact details for past landlords
Having them ready saves time. Ask the office for its exact list. If you are applying with a co-applicant, add their income to the same test only if the office says it does.
What does a Fair Housing note mean for income rules?
Income rules must be applied the same way to every applicant. LeaseRunner notes that “the rule must be applied equally to all applicants.” If you think a rule was applied unfairly, ask the office to explain the criteria in writing.
Centro is an Equal Housing community. Questions about your rights can go to the leasing office at (737) 317-8369.
Next step
Want the real criteria for the unit you like? Book a tour or call (737) 317-8369 and ask the office.
