Where Can I Afford to Buy in the Bay Area? · 2026

Data through Aug 2026

Data curated by Melanie Tan, 8 Blocks Real Estate · How this data works

The honest answer depends on the budget, the home type, and how flexible you are on location — the same dollar buys a condo in one city and a single-family home two exits away. Pick a budget below to see every tracked city, home type, and neighborhood pocket that fits, based on actual sale prices from the last three months (not listings). Monthly figures are estimates: 20% down at today's 7.3% average 30-year rate, plus ~1.25% property tax and typical insurance; the income guideline uses a standard 33% of gross income. HOA dues are extra where they apply.

What $1M buys →
27 cities at or under the median
Condos fit in 67 cities · ~$6,699/mo all-in at $1M
Income guideline ~$243,589/yr
What $1.5M buys →
52 cities at or under the median
Condos fit in 72 cities · ~$9,956/mo all-in at $1.5M
Income guideline ~$362,050/yr
What $2M buys →
69 cities at or under the median
Condos fit in 75 cities · ~$13,214/mo all-in at $2M
Income guideline ~$480,511/yr
What $3M buys →
78 cities at or under the median
Condos fit in 75 cities · ~$19,729/mo all-in at $3M
Income guideline ~$717,434/yr

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Melanie Tan
Melanie Tan
DRE #02250755
“I help Bay Area buyers and sellers make confident moves with the latest market data, real local expertise, and the patience to find what's actually right for you, not the fastest close.”
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