FHA Loans in California
The FHA loan limit in California is $1,149,825 for a single-family home. FHA loans require just 3.5% down payment and accept credit scores as low as 580.
California has some of the highest FHA loan limits in the country, with high-cost counties like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Orange County reaching the ceiling of $1,149,825. Even with these elevated limits, FHA loans may not cover homes in the most expensive neighborhoods. FHA loans are most practical in the Central Valley, Inland Empire, and Sacramento where prices align better with the limits. California's strict appraisal standards mean FHA inspections frequently flag older homes for deferred maintenance.
By BuyAHomeIn Editorial | Updated 2026-03-02 | Sources: HUD, Zillow
FHA Loan Limit
$1,149,825
Min Down Payment
$40,244
3.5%
Est. Monthly Payment
$8,480
PITI + MIP
Min Credit Score
580
for 3.5% down
Monthly Payment Breakdown at FHA Limit
| Home Price | $1,149,825 |
| Down Payment (3.5%) | $40,244 |
| Loan Amount | $1,109,581 |
| Monthly Costs | |
| Principal & Interest (6.5%) | $7,013 |
| FHA Mortgage Insurance (MIP) | $509 |
| Property Tax | $671 |
| Homeowners Insurance | $287 |
| Total Monthly Payment | $8,480 |
* Estimated at 6.5% interest rate, 30-year fixed. MIP at 0.55% annual. Property tax at California's average rate of 0.7%. Includes upfront MIP of 1.75% rolled into loan.
FHA Loan Requirements
Credit Score
580+ for 3.5% down payment. 500-579 requires 10% down.
Down Payment
Minimum 3.5% of purchase price. Can be a gift from family.
Debt-to-Income
Maximum 43% DTI ratio (up to 50% with compensating factors).
Property Requirements
Must be primary residence. FHA appraisal required (stricter than conventional).
Employment
2 years of steady employment history. Self-employed need 2 years of tax returns.
Mortgage Insurance
1.75% upfront MIP + 0.55% annual MIP. Required for life of loan (unless refinanced).
FHA vs Conventional in California
| Feature | FHA | Conventional |
|---|---|---|
| Min Down Payment | 3.5% | 3-5% |
| Min Credit Score | 580 | 620 |
| Mortgage Insurance | Life of loan | Until 20% equity |
| Loan Limit (California) | $1,149,825 | $766,550+ |
| Best For | Lower credit, small savings | Good credit, 20%+ down |
