FHA Loans in Hawaii
The FHA loan limit in Hawaii 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.
Hawaii's FHA loan limits are among the highest in the nation, reaching the maximum ceiling in Honolulu and Maui counties. Even with these elevated limits, FHA loans cover only a portion of available inventory — many homes in desirable Oahu neighborhoods exceed even the highest FHA limits. FHA is most practical on the Big Island and in less expensive Oahu neighborhoods like Ewa Beach, Kapolei, and parts of Central Oahu. FHA appraisals in Hawaii often flag older properties for termite damage, necessitating treatment before closing.
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
$8,116
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 | $307 |
| Homeowners Insurance | $287 |
| Total Monthly Payment | $8,116 |
* Estimated at 6.5% interest rate, 30-year fixed. MIP at 0.55% annual. Property tax at Hawaii's average rate of 0.32%. 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 Hawaii
| 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 (Hawaii) | $1,149,825 | $766,550+ |
| Best For | Lower credit, small savings | Good credit, 20%+ down |