FinCalc Hub

Down Payment Calculator

See how much cash you need to put down on a house. Enter the home price and your down payment percent to find your down payment amount, loan size, estimated monthly payment, and whether you reach the 20% mark that typically avoids PMI.

✓ Updated July 2026Formula-basedNo signupNothing stored

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Down payment illustration DOWN financed
Illustrative split of cash down versus financed amount. Lender rules and local costs vary.
Cash needed for your down payment
$0
Loan amount
$0
Est. monthly payment (P&I)
$0
To reach 20% down
$0
Down payment percent
0%
Got the down payment? Run the mortgageEstimate the monthly payment on the rest.

How the down payment is calculated

Your down payment is simply the home price multiplied by the percent you put down: a 10% down payment on a $400,000 home is $40,000. The rest becomes your loan amount (price minus down payment). The estimated monthly payment uses the standard amortizing-loan formula on that loan amount for principal and interest only. The calculator also shows how much more cash you would need to reach 20% down, which typically lets you avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI) and lowers your monthly cost. Taxes, insurance, HOA dues, and PMI itself are billed on top of the principal-and-interest figure shown here.

Frequently asked questions

How much should I put down on a house?

A 20% down payment typically lets you avoid PMI and lowers your monthly payment, but many loan programs allow far less — some conventional loans accept 3% to 5%, and government-backed programs can go lower. More down means a smaller loan and less interest; less down preserves cash for moving, repairs, and an emergency fund.

What is PMI and when do I pay it?

Private mortgage insurance protects the lender, not you, and is usually required on conventional loans when your down payment is under 20%. It is added to your monthly payment and can often be removed once you build enough equity. Putting 20% or more down generally avoids it from the start.

Does this include closing costs?

No. The down payment is separate from closing costs, which often run roughly 2% to 5% of the loan and cover lender fees, title, appraisal, and prepaids. Budget for both when planning your total cash to close.

Why does a bigger down payment lower my payment?

A larger down payment shrinks the loan amount you finance, so there is less principal to repay and less interest over the life of the loan. Reaching 20% also typically removes PMI, which lowers the monthly cost further.

How accurate is this estimate?

The down payment and loan math are exact, and the monthly figure is exact for a fixed-rate loan, but your real quote depends on lender fees, taxes, insurance, and any PMI. Use it as a planning estimate, not a guarantee.

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Disclaimer: This tool provides an estimate for general informational purposes only and is not financial advice. The monthly figure covers principal and interest only and excludes property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA dues, and PMI. Down payment requirements, rates, and fees vary by lender and loan program. Consult a licensed mortgage professional before making decisions.

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