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Purchase Mortgage Loan

How Much House Can I Afford on My Salary?

Quick answer

A common guideline is to keep your total monthly housing payment at or below 28% of gross income and all debts at or below 36%. At a 6.5% rate with 10% down and no other debts, that roughly means a $75,000 salary supports a home around $250,000–$290,000, and $100,000 supports about $330,000–$390,000, depending on taxes and insurance.

By Purchase Mortgage Loan Editorial Team Checked against official sources per our editorial standardsLast updated

How much house can I afford by salary?

*Assumes 6.5% 30-year fixed rate, 10% down, no other monthly debts and about 1.2%–1.6% of the price per year for taxes and insurance combined. Use our calculator for your exact numbers.

Annual salary28% monthly housing budgetApprox. home price*
$50,000$1,167$160,000–$190,000
$75,000$1,750$250,000–$290,000
$100,000$2,333$330,000–$390,000
$125,000$2,917$420,000–$490,000
$150,000$3,500$500,000–$590,000

What counts toward debt-to-income?

  • Minimum credit card payments
  • Auto, student and personal loan payments
  • Child support or alimony
  • The new mortgage payment (principal, interest, taxes, insurance, HOA, mortgage insurance)

How can I afford more house?

  • Pay off small debts before applying.
  • Raise your credit score to get a lower rate.
  • Look at FHA, VA or USDA programs or down payment assistance.
  • Buy points or shop multiple lenders for a lower rate.

Frequently asked questions

Not necessarily. Leave room for savings, repairs (budget 1%–2% of the home's value yearly) and other goals.

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Figures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.