Austin Down Payment Assistance
Discover how Austin-area home buyers can receive up to 5% in down payment and closing cost assistance through Texas state programs.
Population
1,011,790
Median Home Price
$450,000
Median Income
$80,954
DPA Available
Up to 5%
Down Payment Assistance in Austin, Texas
Austin is the state capital of Texas and one of the most sought-after housing markets in the country, driven by a booming technology sector and vibrant cultural scene. With a median home price around $450,000, Austin is the most expensive major city in Texas, making down payment assistance especially valuable.
Travis County income limits are higher than many other Texas counties, reflecting the area's elevated cost of living. This means Austin-area buyers with household incomes that might disqualify them elsewhere can still access DPA funds through TDHCA and TSAHC programs.
Tesla, Apple, Google, Meta, Amazon, Samsung, and Oracle have all established significant operations in the Austin metro area, creating thousands of high-paying tech jobs. Many workers, especially younger employees early in their careers, have strong incomes but struggle to save for down payments in this expensive market.
While home prices in Austin proper can be steep, surrounding suburbs like Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Kyle, and Georgetown offer more affordable alternatives within commuting distance. Many suburban homes fall within DPA purchase price limits, allowing buyers to use state assistance.
DPA Program Note
Travis County has higher income limits. Focus on suburbs for homes within DPA price limits—especially Kyle and Pflugerville.
Why Austin for Homeownership?
Key factors that make Austin an excellent market for buyers using down payment assistance.
Tech hub of Texas
State capital
Major corporate relocations
Live music capital
Major Employers in Austin
Austin's diverse economy provides stable employment for home buyers qualifying for DPA programs.
Popular Austin-Area Communities
Explore neighborhoods and suburbs in the Austin metro where DPA programs can help you buy a home.
DPA Eligibility in Austin
Most Austin-area buyers who meet the following criteria can qualify for Texas down payment assistance programs.
- Household income within Travis County limits (varies by program and family size)
- Minimum credit score of 620 (some programs may allow lower with compensating factors)
- Purchasing a primary residence in the state of Texas
- Completing a HUD-approved homebuyer education course (available online)
- Working with a TDHCA- or TSAHC-approved lender like Cornerstone First Mortgage
- Meeting the purchase price limits for Travis County (currently up to $472,030 standard or $546,250 in high-cost areas)
Eligibility requirements vary by program. Contact the Cook Brothers Mortgage Team for a personalized eligibility assessment based on your specific financial situation and the Austin area where you plan to buy.
Austin DPA FAQs
How much down payment assistance can I get in Austin?
Home buyers in Austin can receive up to 5% of the loan amount in down payment assistance through TDHCA and TSAHC programs. On a $450,000 home, that's up to $22,500 in assistance.
What are the income limits for DPA in Travis County?
Income limits vary by program and household size. Travis County limits are based on the Austin-Round Rock-Georgetown Area Median Income (AMI). Generally, households earning up to 115% of AMI can qualify. Use our calculator or contact us for current limits.
Do I have to be a first-time buyer to use DPA in Austin?
No! While the TDHCA My First Texas Home program is for first-time buyers, the My Choice Texas Home program and some TSAHC options are available to repeat buyers. If you've owned a home before, you may still qualify for assistance in Austin.
Check Your Eligibility in Austin
Take our free 60-second quiz to see which Texas DPA programs you may qualify for in the Austin area. No credit check required, no obligation.
Cook Brothers Mortgage Team at Cornerstone First Mortgage | NMLS #173855