What is cash-on-cash return?

Cash-on-cash return is annual pre-tax cash flow divided by total cash invested. It measures the actual cash income relative to the cash you put in, ignoring appreciation or mortgage paydown.

Cash-on-Cash Return Calculator

Estimate cash-on-cash return for a rental property.

This tool runs in your browser. None of your data is saved or sold.

Annual pre-tax cash flow ($)

Total cash invested ($)

Annual appreciation

Annual principal paid ($)

About This Calculator

Cash-on-cash return measures your annual cash flow relative to the actual cash you invested (down payment, closing costs, rehab). It's the most practical metric for real estate investors because it reflects actual money returned on actual money deployed, unlike cap rate which ignores financing.

Estimates only — not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Verify important results with a qualified professional before making decisions.

cash-on-cash = annual pre-tax cash flow ÷ total cash invested × 100