How Much House Can I Afford on $40,000 a Year?
On a $40,000 salary ($3,333.33 a month before tax) with no other debts and $25,000 down, the 28% housing guideline supports a payment of about $933.33 — enough for a home of roughly $147,314 at an example rate of 6.5%.
Personalize this in the affordability calculator
Maximum price by down payment and rate
| Down payment | At 5.5% | At 6.5% | At 7.5% |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 | $145,443 | $133,802 | $123,603 |
| $25,000 | $158,815 | $147,314 | $137,238 |
| $50,000 | $189,612 | $176,905 | $165,887 |
| $100,000 | $233,836 | $221,655 | $211,092 |
How monthly debts change the answer
Lenders also cap total debt payments — here at 36% of gross income. Once car, student-loan or card payments push you past that, every dollar of debt payment is a dollar less for housing:
| Other monthly debts | Housing budget | Maximum price | Limited by |
|---|---|---|---|
| $0 | $933.33 | $147,314 | income (28%) |
| $300 | $900.00 | $142,858 | debts (36%) |
| $600 | $600.00 | $107,332 | debts (36%) |
| $1,000 | $200.00 | $50,694 | debts (36%) |
Where that budget goes furthest
At about $147,314, the estimate is at or above the Census 2024 median home value in 0 of the 50 states and DC. Property tax rates and insurance costs differ by state, so local numbers can move the result — try the state picker in the affordability calculator.
Is the maximum a good target?
The 28/36 guideline uses gross income and ignores childcare, commuting, retirement savings and maintenance. Many buyers aim below the maximum to keep room in their budget. Fannie Mae allows total DTI up to 45% or 50% in some cases, but a higher approval is not the same as a comfortable payment. Read how much house can I afford for the full method.
Other incomes
$50,000 · $60,000 · $75,000 · $90,000 · $100,000 · $125,000 · $150,000 · $200,000 · $250,000
Sources
- Fannie Mae Selling Guide, B3-6-02, “Debt-to-Income Ratios” (April 2, 2025)
- U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2024 1-year estimates, table B25103 (median real estate taxes paid) and table B25077 (median value, owner-occupied units)
- Freddie Mac, “Breaking down PMI,” My Home by Freddie Mac (accessed September 2026)