How much house can I afford in Houston on $80k?
About $1,867 a month at 28%. That often fits a home near $250k–$290k with 20% down.
Houston · Texas
How Much House Can You Afford in Houston?
Median home near $310,000. Typical household income near $68,000. Moderate — prices stay below many coastal metros. Calculator below uses Houston tax and insurance defaults.
Local numbers for Houston
$310,000Median home price
$96,875+Rough gross income for median home (3× rule)
1.65%Property tax (effective)
0.45%Insurance (of home value / yr)
On a median $310,000 home, tax near 1.65% is about $426/month. Insurance near 0.45% is about $116/month. HOA near $60/month where it applies.
Flood zones matter. Insurance and tax can rival the mortgage on older homes without updates.
Affordability in Houston: local context
Houston is one of the more affordable big Texas metros. Median price near $310k fits many middle incomes with 20% down at today's rates.
Flood maps matter. Harvey taught many buyers to check FEMA zones and insurance cost before they fall in love with a kitchen.
Energy and medical jobs anchor wages. Suburbs in Katy, Pearland, and The Woodlands trade commute time for more house per dollar.
Property tax near 1.65% is a real line item. On a $300k home that is over $400 a month — not pocket change.
FAQ — Houston
Is Houston cheaper than Austin?
Yes on median price. Austin wages are higher but list prices rose faster.