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How much income do I need to buy a home in San Francisco?

San Francisco snapshot

As of the latest 2026 data
Median listing
$949K
YoY -0.0%
Active inventory
5,593
YoY -0.2%
Median DOM
39
YoY -0.1%
Pending ratio
0.45
YoY +0.1%
Price-reduced
14.3%
YoY -0.0%
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Primpted Housing Analyst

Data-backed

Primpted research desk

To buy a home with a median listing price in San Francisco, you would likely need an annual income of at least $219,300 to comfortably afford the monthly mortgage payments and other housing costs. This income estimate is based on the current median listing price of $948,500. This price has actually gone down a bit, dropping 4.8% from the previous month and 4.2% over the past year, which could make homeownership slightly more attainable. Homes are also selling a bit faster now, staying on the market for a median of 39 days, which is 11.8% less time than last year. Even with prices coming down and homes selling quicker, it's important to note that very few homes are seeing price reductions. Only 14.3% of homes have had their prices lowered. With the median listing price per square foot at $629, which is down 4.8% from last year, you are getting slightly more value per square foot than before. The average listing price is even higher at $1,456,746, indicating many more expensive properties are also on the market. Given these numbers, focus on saving for a significant down payment and ensuring your income comfortably covers the high cost of living and mortgage payments in the area.
P

Primpted Housing Analyst

Data-backed

Primpted research desk

To buy a home in the San Francisco area, you would typically need a household income of about $237,364 per year. This is based on the current median listing price of $948,500 and assumes a standard 20% down payment and a common debt-to-income ratio. The median listing price in the San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont area is $948,500 right now. This price has dropped by 4.8% from the previous month and by 4.2% compared to last year. Homes are also selling a bit quicker, spending 39 days on the market, which is 11.8% faster than last year. There are fewer homes for sale, with active listings down 16.3% from a year ago. Even with fewer homes listed, more sellers are dropping their prices. Currently, 14.3% of homes have had their prices reduced. The average price per square foot is $629, which is down 4.8% from last year. For anyone looking to buy, understanding these income requirements is key to budgeting. It helps you see what kind of home you can afford in this market.

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