Lease vs. Buy Calculator

Compare the total cost of leasing vs. purchasing office furniture over time. See monthly cash flow, break-even timing, and which option wins for your situation.

Step 1

Total furniture cost

Total purchase price for all furniture, installed. Typical range: $10K–$2M+.

Step 2

Lease term length

Step 3

Lease type

Step 4

How long do you plan to use this furniture?

How This Works

This calculator compares the total cost of leasing office furniture vs. buying it outright, factoring in residual value and lease structure.

FMV Lease offers lower monthly payments but you return the furniture at end of term (or buy at fair market value). Best for short-term needs.

$1 Buyout Lease has higher payments but you own the furniture at the end. Closer to financing a purchase over time.

Residual Value estimates what your furniture is worth if you sell it after your usage period. Premium brands hold value better.

When Leasing Makes Sense

Short-term space — lease terms of 3–5 years where you may relocate or downsize.

Cash preservation — keep capital for operations instead of tying it up in furniture.

Startups & growth — scale furniture with headcount without large upfront costs.

Tax advantages — lease payments are often fully deductible as operating expenses.

When Buying Makes Sense

Long-term use — 7+ years in the same space makes buying significantly cheaper.

Premium brands — Steelcase, Herman Miller, and Knoll hold strong resale value.

Stable companies — predictable headcount and low risk of relocation.

Available capital — if cash flow allows, buying avoids the premium you pay for financing.

Related Resources

→ Furniture Budget Estimator → Office Space Calculator → Budgeting Guide → Furniture Liquidation Services