How Much House Can I Afford?
Updated: October 2026. Rules change; confirm with a licensed lender.
A common guideline is the 28/36 rule: spend no more than 28% of gross monthly income on housing and 36% on all debt combined. Lenders sometimes allow more.
Example
On $6,000 gross per month, 28% is $1,680 for housing and 36% is $2,160 for all debt payments.
What counts as housing
Principal, interest, property tax, insurance, HOA and mortgage insurance. A payment that looks cheap can be much higher once everything is added.
Don't forget
Maintenance, utilities, an emergency fund and closing costs.
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Important: this information is educational, not financial, legal or tax advice. Results are estimates and do not guarantee approval or rates. We are not a lender or mortgage broker. Confirm current rules with a licensed lender.