Home Affordability Calculator
How much house can you afford? Enter your income, debts, and down payment to get a realistic budget — using the same 28/36 rule lenders use.
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You can afford a home up to
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Estimated monthly payment:
Principal & interest—
Property tax—
Home insurance—
HOA—
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How much house can you really afford?
The 28/36 rule, in plain English
Lenders don't just look at your income — they look at ratios. The 28/36 rule says your monthly housing payment should stay under 28% of your gross monthly income, and all your debt payments combined under 36%. Whichever limit is lower sets your real budget, which is why paying down a car loan or credit card can raise how much home you qualify for.
Planning to put less than 20% down? You'll likely pay PMI — and you'll want to cancel it as soon as possible.
See your PMI removal date →
Affordability FAQ
How much house can I afford on my income?
A common guideline is the 28/36 rule: spend no more than 28% of gross monthly income on housing (PITI) and no more than 36% on total debt. This calculator applies that rule to your income, debts, and down payment to estimate a maximum home price.
What is the 28/36 rule?
It's a lender rule of thumb. The "front-end" ratio caps housing costs at 28% of gross monthly income; the "back-end" ratio caps all debt payments (housing plus car, student, and credit-card minimums) at 36%. The lower of the two limits sets your budget.
What costs are included in the monthly payment?
A full mortgage payment is "PITI": principal, interest, property taxes, and homeowners insurance — plus HOA dues and, if your down payment is under 20%, PMI. This tool breaks down P&I, taxes, insurance, and HOA.
Does a bigger down payment let me afford more?
Yes. A larger down payment means a smaller loan and lower monthly principal & interest, so the same budget supports a higher purchase price — and 20% down also avoids PMI entirely.
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