Data Sources and Methodology
Where our defaults come from, how often they update, and what each source is used for.
How to Cite This Page
Use this page when referencing calculator defaults, source cadence, or methodology context in media and research.
Rent or Buy Today. "Data Sources and Methodology."
https://rentorbuytoday.com/data-sources/ (accessed Month Day, Year).Data Sources & Methodology
All market data on this site comes from publicly available, reputable sources. We update our data regularly to ensure accuracy.
Zillow Research
Median home values and rental prices by metro area
Updated: Monthly
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Metro-level unemployment rates
Updated: Monthly
Federal Housing Finance Agency
National/metro home-price trend benchmarks and conforming loan limit reference data
Updated: Monthly / Annual
HUD User
Rent benchmark fallback for coverage gaps and validation checks
Updated: Annual
U.S. Census Bureau
Income, commute, tenure, and housing supply context used for market pages and future fallbacks
Updated: Monthly / Annual
Freddie Mac
30-year fixed mortgage rate averages
Updated: Weekly
Redfin Data Center
Supplemental inventory and pricing trend context used as a secondary market-data source
Updated: Weekly / Monthly
Google Trends
Relative search-demand signals used for editorial prioritization and internal linking
Updated: Daily
Disclaimer
The data presented on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Home prices and rents shown are metro-area medians and may vary significantly by neighborhood. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or real estate professional before making housing decisions.
Scope Notes
- Metro defaults are directional and may differ from neighborhood-level pricing.
- Trend signals help editorial prioritization and internal linking; they do not alter calculator math.
- Time-sensitive posts include a "data as of" timestamp when relevant.