Kristin Stark

Income needed to buy a house in 2026 👇

Before you panic over the numbers in this video, remember: there’s a big difference between the income lenders may approve and the income that’s actually comfortable for your budget.

Here’s the formula many lenders use to estimate your maximum housing payment:

✔️ Take your gross annual income
✔️ Add your partner’s income (if buying together)
✔️ Divide by 12
✔️ Multiply by 45%
✔️ Subtract your monthly debts

That gives you the highest monthly payment you may be approved for—not necessarily what you should spend.

The truth? Two families making the exact same income can qualify for the same house but have completely different comfort levels based on debt, childcare costs, lifestyle, savings goals, and other expenses.

That’s why pre-approval is step one, not the final answer.

Comment HOME and let’s figure out what makes sense for your budget—not just what a calculator says. 🏡✨