FHA Loans in Texas
The FHA loan limit in Texas is $472,030 for a single-family home. FHA loans require just 3.5% down payment and accept credit scores as low as 580.
Texas's FHA limits at the baseline cover most of the state's housing market, including the affordable Houston and San Antonio metros. Austin's rising prices have pushed some homes above the FHA limit in desirable neighborhoods, and Travis County qualifies for elevated limits. Dallas suburbs and the northern growth corridor (Frisco, McKinney, Prosper) have also seen prices rise above the baseline limit. FHA is most practical in Houston, San Antonio, El Paso, and the outer suburbs of all major metros where prices align well with FHA limits.
By BuyAHomeIn Editorial | Updated 2026-03-02 | Sources: HUD, Zillow
FHA Loan Limit
$472,030
Min Down Payment
$16,521
3.5%
Est. Monthly Payment
$3,741
PITI + MIP
Min Credit Score
580
for 3.5% down
Monthly Payment Breakdown at FHA Limit
| Home Price | $472,030 |
| Down Payment (3.5%) | $16,521 |
| Loan Amount | $455,509 |
| Monthly Costs | |
| Principal & Interest (6.5%) | $2,879 |
| FHA Mortgage Insurance (MIP) | $209 |
| Property Tax | $535 |
| Homeowners Insurance | $118 |
| Total Monthly Payment | $3,741 |
* Estimated at 6.5% interest rate, 30-year fixed. MIP at 0.55% annual. Property tax at Texas's average rate of 1.36%. 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 Texas
| 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 (Texas) | $472,030 | $766,550+ |
| Best For | Lower credit, small savings | Good credit, 20%+ down |
