How does $270,000 compare with typical California incomes and prices?
$270,000 is 2.8× the California median household income. Your estimated 36%-DTI budget of $1,072,000 is $376,600 above the statewide median home value.
| Scenario | Max price | Monthly payment | Down payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional, 28% DTI | $830,000 | $6,298 | $41,500 |
| Conventional, 36% DTI | $1,072,000 | $8,094 | $53,600 |
| FHA, 28% DTI | $801,000 | $6,293 | $28,035 |
| FHA, 36% DTI | $1,036,000 | $8,098 | $36,260 |
Rate assumption: 7.18% (Freddie Mac PMMS 30-year fixed average, week of November 5, 2026). Change it in the payment calculator.
Can down payment assistance help in California?
- CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program — Up to the lesser of 3.5% of the purchase price or appraised value (FHA)
California cities with a median home value under $1,072,000
Frequently asked questions
California's median home value is $695,400. On $270,000 you can afford up to about $1,072,000 at 36% DTI, so a median-priced home is within reach.
California homeowners pay a median of $4,926 a year — an effective rate of about 0.71% of home value (Census ACS 2019–2023).
The average HO-3 homeowners premium in California was $1,655 a year in 2023, according to the NAIC.
Compare home costs in California
Sources
- U.S. Census Bureau — ACS 2019–2023 5-Year Estimates
- NAIC — Homeowners Insurance Report, Data for 2023 (HO-3 average premium)
- HUD Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1
Data last updated October 23, 2026.
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Get My MatchesFigures 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.