How income limits are set
Most programs base income limits on area median income (AMI) — the middle income for your county or metro area, published annually. A program might allow households earning up to 80%, 100%, 120%, or even more of AMI. Because AMI differs by location, the same salary can qualify in one county and not in another.
Many programs also adjust limits for household size, and some set higher limits in designated targeted areas.
What income counts
Programs define income differently. Some count only the income of the people on the loan; others count the gross annual income of every adult in the household who will live in the home. Income is usually calculated before taxes and may include overtime, bonuses, commission, self-employment income, and other regular sources. Ask your lender how the program you're considering calculates it.
Tip: "Qualifying income" for the mortgage and "program income" for the assistance can be calculated differently. Your lender needs to check both.
Purchase price limits
Most programs also cap the home's purchase price. Limits vary by county and sometimes by whether the area is targeted. In higher-cost markets, purchase price limits are often the tighter constraint.
How to check your limits
- Pick your stateStart with your state's programs — each state agency publishes its current limits.
- Find your countyLimits are almost always set by county or metro area.
- Add up household incomeUse gross annual income and note who lives in the home.
- Confirm with a lenderA participating lender can verify eligibility against current limits.
If you're over the limit
You may still have options: programs with higher limits, city or county programs with different rules, lender-offered assistance, low- and no-down-payment loan options (FHA, conventional, VA, and USDA), or seller-paid closing costs.