Zero Down in
More Places Than You'd Think
You don't have to live in the middle of nowhere. A lot of suburban areas qualify — and most buyers are surprised when they find out theirs does too.
What Is a USDA Loan?
A government-backed loan through the U.S. Department of Agriculture designed to help moderate-income buyers purchase homes in eligible rural and suburban areas — often with no down payment required. The eligibility map covers far more ground than most people expect.
Is This Loan Right for You?
✔ Great fit if…
- You're buying in an eligible area
- Your household income is within USDA limits for your county
- You want $0 down payment
- You want lower mortgage insurance costs than FHA
✗ May not be the best fit if…
- The property is in an ineligible area
- Your household income exceeds the USDA limit for your county
- You're buying an investment property or second home
The Numbers at a Glance
| Down payment | $0 |
| Mortgage insurance | Lower than FHA — upfront guarantee fee + small annual fee |
| Income limits | Vary by county and household size |
| Property location | Must be in a USDA-eligible area |
| Property types | Primary residence only |
What People Get Wrong About USDA Loans
Many suburban neighborhoods — including areas near mid-sized cities — are USDA-eligible. The eligibility map is updated periodically and might surprise you. The only way to know for sure is to check your specific address.
USDA has income limits, not minimums — it's designed for moderate-income buyers, not just very low income. Many working families qualify without realizing it.
USDA loans do require an extra approval step, but in most cases the timeline is only a bit longer than a standard loan — and the $0 down benefit is worth it for eligible buyers.