How much down payment do I need to buy a house in Hawaii?

You can buy a home in Hawaii with as little as 0% down (VA/USDA), 3% down ($24,750 conventional), or 3.5% down ($28,875 FHA) on the median-priced home of $825,000.

What income do I need to buy a home in Hawaii?

To afford the median-priced home in Hawaii ($825,000) with a 30-year mortgage at 6.35%, you typically need a household income of approximately $207,866 per year (using the 28% rule). The median income in Hawaii is $84,857.

What is the FHA loan limit in Hawaii for 2026?

The FHA loan limit in Hawaii for 2026 is $1,149,825. This means first-time buyers using FHA loans can finance up to this amount with just 3.5% down payment.

First-Time Home Buyer Hawaii 2026

Q: What first-time home buyer programs are available in Hawaii?

Hawaii offers 2 major first-time buyer programs including HHFDC Down Payment Assistance, Hula Mae Single Family. These programs provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates to help with down payment and closing costs.

Your complete guide to buying your first home in Hawaii. 2+ down payment assistance programs, FHA loans from 6.15%, and step-by-step guidance.

Median Price

$825,000

Min Down (FHA)

$28,875

DPA Programs

Best Rate

6.15%

Check My Hawaii Eligibility

What First-Time Buyer Programs Are Available in Hawaii?

Hawaii offers 2 major first-time home buyer assistance programs. These include HHFDC Down Payment Assistance, Hula Mae Single Family. Programs provide up to $25,000 in down payment assistance through grants, forgivable loans, and below-market interest rates.

How Much Do I Need to Buy in Hawaii?

You can buy a home in Hawaii with as little as $0 down. VA and USDA loans require zero down payment. FHA loans need just 3.5% ($$28,875), and conventional loans start at 3% ($$24,750) on the median price of $825,000.

Loan Type	Down Payment	$ Amount	Monthly P&I	Min Credit
VA Loan	0%	$0	$4,999	620
USDA Loan	0%	$0	$5,133	640
Conventional 3%	3%	$24,750	$4,979	620
FHA Loan	3.5%	$28,875	$4,850	580
Conventional 20%	20%	$165,000	$4,107	620

Hawaii Down Payment Assistance Programs

HHFDC Down Payment Assistance

DPA for low-to-moderate income buyers

Up to $25,000deferred

Hula Mae Single Family

Below-market interest rates

Up to Rate reduction 0.5-1%low interest

5 Steps to Buy Your First Home in Hawaii

To buy your first home in Hawaii, start by checking your credit score, getting pre-approved, and researching DPA programs. The entire process typically takes 30-60 days from pre-approval to closing. Here's your step-by-step roadmap.

Check Your Credit & Finances

Review your credit score (aim for 620+), calculate your debt-to-income ratio, and save for closing costs. In Hawaii, you may need as little as $28,875 for an FHA down payment.

Get Pre-Approved

Compare rates from at least 3 lenders. Current Hawaii rates: 6.35% (30-year), 6.15% (FHA). Pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and locks your rate.

Apply for Hawaii DPA Programs

Hawaii has 2+ DPA programs. The HHFDC Down Payment Assistance offers up to $25,000. Apply early—funding can be limited.

House Hunt & Make an Offer

Popular cities in Hawaii: Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, Kailua, Waipahu. Median price is $825,000 (+4.1% YoY). Work with a local real estate agent who knows the market.

Close on Your New Home

Closing costs in Hawaii typically run 2-5% of the purchase price ($24,750-$41,250). Some DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Start Your Hawaii Home Buying Journey

Get pre-approved in minutes and see what you qualify for.

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Hawaii First-Time Buyer FAQ

What first-time home buyer programs are available in Hawaii?

Hawaii offers 2 major programs: HHFDC Down Payment Assistance, Hula Mae Single Family. These provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates for down payment and closing cost assistance.