Quick Answer
For 2026, the baseline conforming loan limit for a one-unit home is $832,750 (up $26,250 from 2025), with a high-cost ceiling of $1,249,125. The FHA floor is $541,287 and its high-cost ceiling matches $1,249,125. Staying at or under these limits keeps you in conforming/FHA territory — usually cheaper and easier than a jumbo loan. Limits rose about 3.26% for 2026 with home prices.
Loan limits decide how much you can borrow with a standard (conforming) or FHA mortgage before you cross into pricier jumbo territory. The FHFA raised them again for 2026. Here are the numbers and what they mean for you.
2026 loan limits (one-unit home)
| Loan type | Baseline / floor | High-cost ceiling |
|---|---|---|
| Conforming (conventional) | $832,750 | $1,249,125 |
| FHA | $541,287 | $1,249,125 |
Source: FHFA and HUD 2026 announcements. Alaska, Hawaii, Guam & USVI use the $1,249,125 baseline.
Conforming vs. jumbo
Conforming (≤ limit)
Backed by Fannie/Freddie. Usually lower rates, easier approval, and smaller down payments.
Jumbo (> limit)
Not backed by Fannie/Freddie. Typically needs higher credit, bigger down payment, and more cash reserves.
Why the limit matters to you
If your loan amount lands just above the conforming limit, borrowing a bit less (or putting a bit more down) to stay under it can unlock a lower rate and simpler approval.
- Most counties use the $832,750 baseline; high-cost counties go to $1,249,125.
- FHA limits are lower and vary more by county.
Estimate your payment at any loan amount with the mortgage calculator, and compare loan types in FHA vs. conventional. See where rates sit in current mortgage rates.