Finance Calculator

Mortgage Calculator

Calculate your monthly mortgage payment including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance.

Financial estimate notice

Finance calculator results are educational estimates and are not financial advice. Verify rates, fees, taxes, and assumptions with a qualified professional.

Enter Values

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The guide, formula, examples, and FAQ are available below.

How to Use This Calculator

Step 1

Enter Home Price ($)

Type your home price ($) into the input field. For example: e.g., 350000. Minimum value: 0.

Step 2

Enter Down Payment (%)

Type your down payment (%) into the input field. For example: e.g., 20. Minimum value: 0. Maximum value: 100.

Step 3

Enter Loan Term (years)

Type your loan term (years) into the input field. For example: e.g., 30. Minimum value: 1. Maximum value: 50.

Step 4

Enter Interest Rate (%)

Type your interest rate (%) into the input field. For example: e.g., 6.5. Minimum value: 0.

Step 5

Enter Property Tax ($/year)

Type your property tax ($/year) into the input field. For example: e.g., 4200. Minimum value: 0.

Step 6

Enter Home Insurance ($/year)

Type your home insurance ($/year) into the input field. For example: e.g., 1200. Minimum value: 0.

Step 7

View Your Result

The result appears beside the calculator with the main answer and a detailed calculation breakdown.

Step 8

Adjust and Explore

Change any input value and calculate again. Use the copy and share controls to save or send your result.

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Formula

M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n - 1]

M = monthly principal and interest payment. P = loan principal (home price minus down payment). r = monthly interest rate (annual rate / 12). n = total number of payments (years × 12). Property tax and insurance are added separately.

Finance calculation note

Finance calculators use standard time-value-of-money and amortization formulas for education and planning.

Rates, fees, taxes, inflation, and investment returns can change. Verify assumptions before making financial decisions.

Last reviewed by the Calculator Trust Editorial Team. To report an issue, email contact [at] calculatortrust.com.

Common Examples

Understanding the Concept

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make. A mortgage calculator helps you understand exactly how much your monthly payments will be, so you can budget effectively and find a home within your price range.

Understanding Mortgage Calculator
Understanding how the Mortgage Calculator works

Understanding Your Mortgage Payment

Your total monthly mortgage payment typically consists of four components, often called PITI:

  • Principal: The portion that pays down your loan balance.
  • Interest: The cost of borrowing money from the lender.
  • Taxes: Property taxes assessed by your local government.
  • Insurance: Homeowner's insurance to protect your property.

How Down Payment Affects Your Mortgage

A larger down payment reduces your loan amount, which lowers your monthly payment and the total interest paid over the life of the loan. Putting down at least 20% also helps you avoid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), which can add $100-300+ per month.

How Down Payment Affects Your Mortgage: Mortgage Calculator
How Down Payment Affects Your Mortgage: Mortgage Calculator

Fixed vs. Adjustable Rate Mortgages

A fixed-rate mortgage keeps your interest rate the same for the entire loan term, providing predictable payments. An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) starts with a lower rate that can change periodically, potentially increasing your payment in the future.

This calculator assumes a fixed-rate mortgage for straightforward planning.

Tips for Getting the Best Mortgage Rate

  1. Improve your credit score before applying.
  2. Shop around with multiple lenders and compare offers.
  3. Consider paying points to lower your interest rate if you plan to stay long-term.
  4. Make the largest down payment you can comfortably afford.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much house can I afford?
A common guideline is that your total monthly housing cost should not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income. Use this calculator to find a home price where the total monthly payment fits within that range.
What is PMI and when do I need it?
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is typically required when your down payment is less than 20%. It protects the lender in case you default. PMI usually costs 0.5-1% of the loan amount annually and can be removed once you reach 20% equity.
Should I choose a 15-year or 30-year mortgage?
A 15-year mortgage has higher monthly payments but significantly less total interest paid. A 30-year mortgage offers lower monthly payments but costs more over the life of the loan. Choose based on your budget and financial goals.
Are property taxes included in my mortgage payment?
This calculator includes property tax and insurance in the total monthly payment. In practice, many lenders require an escrow account where taxes and insurance are collected monthly and paid on your behalf.
How does the interest rate affect my total cost?
Even small differences in interest rates have a large impact over the life of a loan. For example, on a $300,000 30-year mortgage, a 0.5% rate difference can mean over $30,000 more or less in total interest paid.

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Written and reviewed by Calculator Trust Editorial Team

Our calculators are built using verified formulas from academic, government, and scientific sources. Content is fact-checked and reviewed for accuracy.Note: This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified financial advisor for personalized advice.