Metro data: NAR Q2 2026 · Rates: Freddie Mac 7.03% (Sep 24, 2026)
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Affordability

How much house can you afford?

Enter your income, down payment and rate to estimate your maximum price — then compare it with the national, regional and metro medians.

Can you afford the city?

National affordability benchmarks from NAR's Q2 2026 report, and a quick checker using this week's average 30-year rate.

The typical buyer today

$2,199Monthly payment, typical single-family home, 20% down
23.8%Share of family income spent on the mortgage
$2,158Monthly payment on a $369,700 starter home, 10% down
35.9%Share of income first-time buyers spend on payments

Source: NAR Q2 2026. Rates have risen since — the 30-year average hit 7.03% on Sep 24, 2026 (Freddie Mac), its first time above 7% since January 2025.

Affordability checker

Estimated max home price $0
Uses the 28% rule: principal & interest ≤ 28% of gross monthly income, 30-year fixed. Excludes taxes, insurance, HOA and PMI.
How it works

How this checker calculates your budget

The checker uses the 28% rule: your monthly principal and interest should be no more than 28% of your gross monthly income. It assumes a 30-year fixed loan at the rate you enter and adds your down payment to find the maximum home price.

It does not include property taxes, insurance, HOA fees or mortgage insurance, so your real budget is usually a little lower. For worked examples at different incomes and rates, read The 28% Rule: How Much House Can You Afford?

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