How Much House Can I Afford on $90,000 a Year?

A $90,000 annual income opens up a broad range of housing markets across the country. Under the 28/36 rule, your gross monthly income of $7,500 supports a maximum housing payment of $2,250/month (30% DTI), translating to a maximum home price of around $325,000–$345,000 with 20% down at current rates.

At $90,000, you can access median-priced homes in many major metro areas including Indianapolis, Columbus, Louisville, San Antonio, Jacksonville, Las Vegas, Phoenix (outer suburbs), and Minneapolis (outer suburbs). You're also well-positioned in the most affordable states: Mississippi, West Virginia, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska — where $340,000 is well above median price.

The 28/36 rule at $90,000 income means your total monthly debt payments (housing + all other debts) must not exceed $3,000/month ($7,500 × 40%). If you have $500/month in car and student loan payments, your max housing payment drops to $2,500 — still enough for a $310,000–$320,000 home. If you have $800/month in debts, your max housing drops to $2,200, putting your home price around $295,000–$310,000.

Buyers at $90,000 in high-cost states face real challenges. In California, Washington, and Massachusetts, $340,000 is well below median price in most coastal markets. The most viable strategies in these states: (1) Target inland or secondary markets (Fresno, Bakersfield, Sacramento rather than SF; Spokane rather than Seattle). (2) Save aggressively for a larger down payment. (3) Combine incomes with a partner. (4) Consider condos in desirable areas rather than single-family homes.