Key Takeaways
- USDA loans require no down payment, saving you upfront costs.
- Use the USDA map to check your property's rural eligibility.
- Eligible homes must be your primary residence within 60 days.
- USDA loans exclude most urban and high-density areas.
Article Summary
The USDA eligibility map is an interactive tool that helps determine if a property qualifies for USDA mortgages. Eligible properties must be located in rural areas as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Address USDA Eligibility Checker
Input any United States address to check whether it would qualify for a USDA loan
How To Use The Homebuyer.com USDA Eligibility Map
Step 1: Enter A Home Address
To use the Homebuyer.com USDA Eligibility Map, start typing the home address. The tool will auto-complete and verify your provided address against all valid USPS addresses.
If you are unsure of the exact address, provide as much detail as possible, including house number, street, city, and state—the map will suggest likely matches.
Once you select the address, the tool will locate the home and display it on the map.
Step 2: Review the USDA Eligibility Status
After locating your property, the USDA Eligibility Map will show whether the home qualifies for a USDA mortgage.
The tool provides two results: eligible and ineligible. Eligible homes are located in rural census tracts or divisions as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Fewer than 2,000 housing units or 5,000 people
- Fewer than 500 residents per square mile
- No more than 425 housing units per square mile
- Not within a half-mile of an airport with 2,500 passengers or more per year
Homes in non-rural areas, known as urban homes, are not eligible for USDA loans.
Additional Requirements for USDA-Eligible Homes
Homes within USDA mortgage zones must also meet three other criteria to qualify.
The first criterion is property type. Homes must be zoned for single-family residence and be the buyer's primary residence within 60 days of settlement.
Eligible home types include existing single-family homes, new constructions, modular homes, townhomes, and certain manufactured homes. 2-4 unit homes, investment properties, and commercial properties are ineligible.
The second criterion is property condition. USDA-eligible homes must be in good condition and meet the USDA's safety, structural, and sanitary standards.
The third criterion is home size. Although the USDA does not have a maximum square footage requirement or loan size limit, homes should be modest without excessive luxury features. Homes that are large or expensive for the area may not be eligible.
Additionally, home buyers must meet specific income and credit score requirements. Use our income limits calculator to check if you qualify for a USDA loan based on your household income. For more details, refer to "What Is A USDA Loan?"
Common USDA Eligibility Map Questions
We receive questions about USDA eligibility via the Homebuyer.com YouTube. Below are some common ones.
How often is the USDA Eligibility Map updated?
The USDA Eligibility Map is updated when rural area boundaries change. There is no fixed schedule for updates, so check regularly for accurate information. The last major update was September 28, 2023, with minor updates earlier that summer.
Can I use a USDA mortgage to buy a mobile or manufactured home?
Yes, certain manufactured homes qualify for a USDA mortgage. These homes must meet the USDA's structural and safety standards, be permanently installed on a foundation, and connected to essential utilities.
Can I use a USDA mortgage for an investment property or vacation home?
No, USDA loans are only for primary residences. Investment properties, vacation homes, and short-term rentals do not qualify.
Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer to use a USDA mortgage?
No, USDA mortgages are available to both first-time and repeat homebuyers who meet the USDA's income and credit requirements.
Is there leniency for homes close to USDA-eligible areas?
USDA mortgages are strictly for homes in eligible areas. Homes outside these areas do not qualify. Use the USDA Eligibility Map to explore other homes that meet the location criteria.
Can I still apply for a USDA mortgage with a low credit score?
Yes, USDA mortgages are open to buyers with varying credit scores. However, buyers must meet income requirements, and some lenders may require a minimum credit score for USDA loans.
Stay Updated with USDA Eligibility Changes
The USDA regularly updates its eligibility maps as regions grow and develop. Sign up for Homebuyer.com's email newsletter to receive updates and information on USDA loans and other resources for first-time homebuyers.
