Mortgage Calculator — Houston, TX
Median home price in Houston: $310,000. Monthly payment: $1,650/month (20% down, 7%, 30yr). Property tax rate: 1.81%.
= $62,000
Payment Breakdown
Houston Mortgage Payments by Rate
| Rate | 15-Year | 30-Year | Total Interest (30yr) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.5% | $2,026 | $1,408 | $258,922 |
| 6% | $2,093 | $1,487 | $287,279 |
| 6.5% | $2,160 | $1,568 | $316,310 |
| 6.75% | $2,195 | $1,609 | $331,068 |
| 7% | $2,229 | $1,650 | $345,982 |
| 7.25% | $2,264 | $1,692 | $361,047 |
| 7.5% | $2,299 | $1,734 | $376,259 |
| 8% | $2,370 | $1,820 | $407,105 |
Houston Property Tax & Total Housing Cost
True Cost of a Home in Houston
What you actually pay over 30 years on a $310,000 home (20% down, 7%):
Homebuyer Tips for Houston, TX
The Houston housing market has its own dynamics. With a median price of $310,000 and a property tax rate of 1.81%, here are tips specific to buying in this area:
- Factor in property taxes early. At 1.81%, you'll pay $468/month in property tax alone — that's $5,611/year on the median home.
- Budget beyond the mortgage. Your true monthly housing cost in Houston is closer to $2,118/month when combining P&I and property tax — before insurance and maintenance.
- Get pre-approved locally. Lenders familiar with TX markets often have better rate options and faster closings for Houston properties.
- Compare neighborhoods carefully. Property tax rates and home values can vary significantly within Houston — a lower-tax neighborhood could save you thousands annually.
- Consider the 28% rule. To keep your Houston mortgage at 28% of gross income, you need a household income of at least $90,751/year.
- Research first-time buyer programs. TX may offer down payment assistance or reduced rates for first-time buyers purchasing in Houston.
Frequently Asked Questions — Houston Mortgages
How much house can I afford in Houston, TX?
Using the 28% rule, a household earning $100,000/year can afford roughly $341,592 in Houston. This accounts for the local property tax rate of 1.81%, which adds $468/month on the median home.
What is the monthly payment on a $310,000 home in Houston?
With 20% down and a 7% rate on a 30-year mortgage, the principal and interest payment is $1,650/month. Including property tax, expect to pay around $2,118/month before insurance.
Are property taxes high in Houston?
Houston's property tax rate is 1.81%. On the median home of $310,000, that's $5,611/year or $468/month. This is above the national average of about 1.1%.
Is a 30-year or 15-year mortgage better for Houston?
A 15-year mortgage at 6.75% on the median Houston home costs $2,195/month — $545 more than a 30-year — but saves $198,958 in total interest.
How much do I need for a down payment in Houston?
A 20% down payment on the median Houston home is $62,000. FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down ($10,850), though you'll pay mortgage insurance.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Houston?
Most conventional loans require a 620+ credit score, while FHA loans accept 580+. For the best rates on a $310,000 home in Houston, aim for 740 or higher — it can save you 0.5-1% on your rate.
How do I lower my mortgage payment in Houston?
You can lower your payment by making a larger down payment, buying down your rate with points, choosing a longer term, or shopping around for lower rates. In Houston, you could also look at neighborhoods with lower property tax assessments.
What is the total cost of owning a home in Houston for 30 years?
On the median $310,000 home with 20% down at 7%, you'll pay $655,982 in mortgage costs alone, plus $168,330 in property tax — a true total of $824,312 over 30 years.
Affordability in Houston
Based on 28% housing cost rule. Includes property tax.