The salary you must earn to buy a home in the 50 largest metros
Note: The lower end of these ranges reflects bank qualification limits, while the higher end reflects a more "comfortable" budget. 3. Regional Variations how much income do you need to buy a home
: Conservative; best if you have significant existing debt or a smaller down payment. The salary you must earn to buy a
Based on typical 2026 lending standards and interest rates, here is the approximate annual gross income needed for various price points: Home Purchase Price Estimated Annual Income Needed $68,500 – $85,000 $350,000 $87,500 – $95,000 $500,000 $110,000 – $140,000 $750,000 $1,000,000 $250,000 – $320,000 Based on typical 2026 lending standards and interest
To afford a median-priced home in the U.S. in 2026, experts estimate you generally need a household income between . However, the exact amount varies based on local market prices, current mortgage rates, and your existing debt levels. 1. Essential Rules of Thumb