[fouc]

IMO if you're paying more than 1/4th of your income in rent, you need to downsize or get a better job. The 1/3 rule is crazy high IMO.

[esalman]

Agreed, 1/3 rule definitely does not work in VHCOL areas. I pay 28% in rent, that cuts down the commute and allows us to live at a stone's throw from good schools, grocery stores and small airports.

[rco8786]

Obviously the lower the better, with 0 being the ideal for anyone. But most people cannot afford a reasonable home on 1/4 of their income.