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Exploring the States with the Most Affordable Mortgage Payments in 2026

KVIA•Thursday, July 23, 2026 at 8:19 AM•Stacker

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As of 2024, the median monthly cost of homeownership in the U.S. has risen to $2,035, marking a 3.8% increase from the previous year. This figure encompasses mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and utilities. The states with the lowest monthly payments are West Virginia at $1,272 and Arkansas at $1,375, while D.C. and California have the highest at $3,181 and $3,001, respectively. The rising costs of homeownership, driven by high home prices and mortgage rates above 6%, are making it increasingly difficult for many potential buyers to enter the market. With the median sales price of homes at $405,300, affordability remains a significant concern for many Americans, especially non-homeowners who are hesitant to buy in the current market.

Key Details: • Median monthly owner costs in the U.S. reached $2,035 in 2024. • West Virginia has the lowest median payment at $1,272, while D.C. has the highest at $3,181. • The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is currently above 6%. • Affordability pressures are preventing many potential buyers from purchasing homes.

affordability real-estate mortgage housing-market homeownership

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