What HAI score is affordable?

An HAI ≥ 100 means the median family can afford the median-priced home. An HAI of 150 means they earn 50% more than required. During the 2022 rate spike, US HAI fell below 100 in many markets for the first time since the 1980s.

What is the 30% housing cost rule?

The standard affordability threshold is spending no more than 30% of gross income on housing (rent or mortgage). Households spending >30% are considered 'cost burdened'; >50% are 'severely cost burdened.'

Housing Affordability Index (HAI)

Calculate the Housing Affordability Index (HAI) = (median family income / qualifying income for median-priced home) × 100. A score of 100 means the median family earns exactly enough to qualify for a median-priced home.

Data set — comma or newline separated

Statistical Results — n = 8

Count (n)8

Sum (Σx)40

Min2

Max9

Range7

Q14

Q35.5

IQR1.5

Mean (μ)5

Median4.5

Mode4

Pop. Variance (σ²)4

Pop. Std Dev (σ)2

Sample Variance (s²)4.571428571

Sample Std Dev (s)2.138089935

Skewness0.65625

Excess Kurtosis-0.21875

How It Works

Each component has a specific meaning:

Affordability Index = (median family income / qualifying income — The affordability index = (median family income / qualifying income recorded for the scenario being assessed.

Note: Interpret the housing affordability index result against the thresholds and context described above.

How to Use

Enter the Affordability Index = (median family income / qualifying income for the scenario you are assessing. Calculate the Housing Affordability Index (HAI) = (median family income / qualifying income for median-priced home) × 100. A score of 100 means the median family earns exactly enough to qualify for a median-priced home. Use the housing affordability index result to inform your calculation.

Housing Affordability Index (HAI)

How It Works

How to Use

Frequently Asked Questions

What HAI score is affordable?

What is the 30% housing cost rule?