A stack of thick textbooks is shown to illustrate the concept of need-based financial aid.

What Is Need-Based Financial Aid?

Paying for college can be expensive, but there are several types of financial aid available to students. Some aid awards are determined based on your family’s financial situation. Known as need-based financial aid, amounts are awarded based on several factors, and in some cases, it may not have to be repaid.

If you’re unsure whether you’ll qualify for need-based aid, how much you’ll receive, or whether you need to pay it back, here’s what you should know.

Key Points

•   Need-based financial aid helps students cover college expenses based on their financial circumstances.

•   Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is essential for assessing eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid.

•   Financial aid options include grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and federal Direct Subsidized Loans.

•   Pell Grants are for undergraduate students with significant financial need.

•   Federal work-study programs offer part-time employment, allowing students to earn money for educational expenses.

Defining Need-Based Financial Aid

To put it simply, need-based financial aid is money to help students pay for the costs of attending college that’s awarded based on their financial situation.

Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for federal or state aid or aid from the institution you attend. Typically, need-based aid is determined based on the information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA®.

Most college students take advantage of what’s offered in their federal financial aid package, which may include the following types of need-based federal financial aid.

Direct Subsidized Student Loans

The federal government will subsidize (or cover) any interest that accrues on Direct Subsidized Loans for undergraduate students while they are enrolled in school at least half-time and during the six-month grace period after graduation.

After the grace period, interest will start to accrue. This is unlike Direct Unsubsidized Loans, which begin accruing interest as soon as they are disbursed.

There is a limit to how much a student can borrow in federal loans and the amount they borrow cannot exceed their financial need. The maximum amount first-year undergraduate students can borrow cannot exceed $5,500 (or $9,500 for independent students), $3,500 of which is in subsidized loans. The maximum amount you can borrow increases each year you’re enrolled.

Pell Grants

Pell Grants are for undergraduate students who have demonstrated exceptional financial need. They depend on factors such as your expected family contribution, your enrollment status, and how much your schooling will cost.

The maximum amount may vary — it’s $7,395 for the 2025-26 academic year. It may also be possible for students to receive up to 150% of their scheduled award, though qualification requirements will vary.

To be eligible for the Pell Grant, students will need to fill out the FAFSA each year that they are enrolled in undergraduate studies.

Work-Study Programs

The federal work-study program offers part-time jobs for undergraduate or graduate students based on their financial needs. The goal is to provide the opportunity for students to earn money towards education-related expenses and one that’s related to their field of study. There may be jobs both on- and off-campus and the program is administered by participating schools.

The type of job you get and how much you earn will be influenced by factors like when you apply and how much funding your school has. At a minimum, program participants will be paid at least the current federal minimum wage.

If you are awarded work-study as a part of your federal aid package, you can’t earn an amount that’s more than what was awarded.

💡 Quick Tip: Often, the main goal of refinancing is to lower the interest rate on your student loans — federal and/or private — by taking out one loan with a new rate to replace your existing loans. Refinancing may make sense if you qualify for a lower rate and you don’t plan to use federal repayment programs or protections. Note that refinancing with a longer term can increase your total interest charges.

What’s the Difference Between Need-Based Financial Aid and Merit-Based Aid?

Whereas need-based financial aid is based on the student and their family’s financial circumstances, merit-based aid doesn’t consider finances. Instead, this type of financial aid looks at things like standardized test scores or grade point average (GPA). In some cases, financial aid is based on other merits such as your class rank.

Some scholarships are also based on your class rank. Usually, scholarships are awarded based on merit, though there are plenty based on financial need. Before applying for any financial aid, it’s important to look at the eligibility requirements so you know whether you’ll qualify.

Recommended: How to Get Merit Aid for College

Do I Need to Pay Back Need-Based Financial Aid?

Even though the point of aid based on financial need is to help you cover college expenses you otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford, you may have to pay some of it back. For instance, the Pell Grant or other types of grants don’t need to be repaid. Scholarships are another type of aid that recipients are not required to repay. If you participate in the work-study program, the money you’ve earned is also yours.

However, Direct Subsidized Loans will need to be repaid. You won’t, however, need to pay any interest while you’re enrolled at least half-time since the government will cover that. Direct Unsubsidized loans (which aren’t awarded based on need) will also need to be repaid and borrowers will be responsible for the full amount of accrued interest.

In some cases, you may not need to pay back the entire amount if you qualify for student loan forgiveness. There are several types of forgiveness with varying eligibility requirements that depend on factors such as your career path.

For instance, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness, or PSLF program, will forgive the outstanding balance on a Direct Loan after you’ve made 120 monthly qualifying payments. These payments need to be paid while you’re working full-time for a qualifying employer and under a qualifying repayment plan.

To see whether you qualify for a forgiveness program, it may be helpful to speak with your loan servicer or check ways to qualify for forgiveness at the office of Federal Student Aid.

Should I Apply for Need-Based Financial Aid?

In a nutshell, yes. Filling out the FAFSA will allow you to determine how much federal aid you qualify for. Some schools will also use the FAFSA to determine additional aid awards.

The FAFSA will require information about your financial situation and your family’s financial situation to help determine how much aid you’ll receive. There is also the CSS Profile, which some colleges may use to determine financial aid awards. To fill out the CSS Profile there is a small fee, though some students may qualify for a fee waiver.

That being said, you may not receive enough financial aid even if you qualify for it. For instance, Pell Grants are typically given on a first-come, first-served basis. It may help to submit the FAFSA as soon as possible. That way, you may be able to find out sooner what you may qualify for.

You can submit your FAFSA as soon as October 1 for the following school year. That’s one of the important FAFSA deadlines to know.

The Takeaway

Even if you’re not sure if you qualify for need-based aid from the federal government, you may be able to qualify for aid at the state, local or college level. There is also merit-based aid in the form of scholarships and some grants.

Many organizations also award grants and scholarships for specific demographics and those pursuing certain fields. It’s far better to accept free money through grants and scholarships before taking out any loans.

If you do end up borrowing money to pay for college, you may want to consider refinancing your student loans. Doing so can help qualifying borrowers reduce their interest rate, which could lower the amount paid over the life of the loan.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.


With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

What is the meaning of need-based aid?

Need-based financial aid is money to help students pay for the cost of attending college. The amount awarded is based on a student’s financial situation. To determine how much need-based financial aid they might qualify for, a student should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

What salary is too high for FAFSA?

Technically, there is no specific salary that is too high for the FAFSA. Factors such as cost of attendance at a college are also considered. No matter what your family earns, you should fill out the form to determine your eligibility for federal loans and other aid.

How do I know if I qualify for need-based financial aid?

Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will determine how much financial aid you may qualify for. The information you provide on the form is used by the financial aid department at your college to calculate your Student Aid Index (SAI). To determine your need, your SAI is subtracted from the cost of attendance (COA) at your school. Additional factors may also play a role, such as your year in school and your enrollment status.


Photo credit: iStock/MicroStockHub

SoFi Student Loan Refinance
Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers.
Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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A young, smiling family sits happily on a blue sofa with yellow pillows wondering how much house they can afford.

I Make $50,000 a Year, How Much House Can I Afford?

On a salary of $50,000 per year, you can afford a house priced at around $150,000 — that is, as long as you have relatively little debt. However, not everyone earning $50,000 will see this number in response to a loan application. The figure could change significantly depending on where you want to live, interest rates, and how much debt you’re carrying.

Understanding how these factors play into home affordability can get you closer to finding a home you can afford on your $50,000 salary.

Key Points

•   With $50,000 annual income, if your debt is modest and you put down a reasonable down payment, you may qualify for a starter-home in a lower-cost market.

•   The 28/36 rule aims for monthly housing costs to stay under 28% of gross income, and total debt (including mortgage) to stay under 36%.

•   Full home affordability depends heavily on your down payment, interest rate, loan term, credit score, and existing debts, in addition to your salary.

•   First-time-buyer programs, lower down-payment options, and choosing an affordable area can make homeownership possible on $50K/year.

•   Various types of home loans are available, including conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA loans, each with different criteria.


Get matched with a local
real estate agent and earn up to
$9,500 cash back when you close.

What Kind of House Can I Afford With $50K a Year?

A $50,000 per year salary is solid, but there’s no denying today’s real estate market is tough. When buying a home, one rule of thumb is to not spend more than three times your annual salary. If you earn $50K a year, that means you can afford to spend around $150,000 on a house.

You’ll need to know the full picture of home affordability to get you into the house you want, starting with your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio.

First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.

Questions? Call (888)-541-0398.


Understanding Debt-to-Income Ratio

Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio may be one of your biggest challenges to home affordability. Each debt you have a monthly payment for takes away from what you could be paying on a mortgage, lowering the mortgage amount you can qualify for.

To calculate your DTI ratio, combine your monthly debt payments — such as credit card debts, student loan payments, and car payments — and then divide the total by your monthly income. This will give you a percentage (or ratio) of how much you’re spending on debt each month. Lenders look for 36% or less for most home mortgage loans.

For example, on a $50,000 annual salary and a $4,166 monthly income, your maximum DTI ratio of 36% would be $1,500. This is the maximum amount of debt lenders want to see on a $50,000 salary.

💡 Quick Tip: Lowering your monthly payments with a mortgage refinance from SoFi can help you find money to pay down other debt, build your rainy-day fund, or put more into your 401(k).

How to Factor in Your Down Payment

A down payment increases how much home you can afford. The more you’re able to put down, the more home you’ll be able to afford. Borrowers who put down more than 20% also avoid having to buy mortgage insurance. When you don’t have to pay mortgage insurance every month, you can qualify for a higher mortgage — but you do need to consider if putting down 20% is worth it to you.

A mortgage calculator can help you see how much your down payment affects the mortgage you can qualify for.

Factors That Affect Home Affordability

In addition to the debt-to-income ratio and down payment, there are a handful of other variables that affect home affordability. These are:

•   Interest rates: When your interest rate is lower, you’ll either have a lower monthly mortgage payment or qualify for a higher mortgage. With higher interest rates, you’ll have a higher monthly mortgage payment and/or qualify for a lower home purchase amount.

•   Credit history and score: Your credit score affects what interest rate you’ll be able to get, which is a huge factor in determining your monthly mortgage payment and home affordability.

•   Taxes and insurance: Higher taxes, insurance, or homeowners association dues can bite into your house budget. Each of these factors has to be accounted for by your lender.

•   Loan type: Different loan types have varying interest rates, down payments, credit requirements, and mortgage insurance requirements which can affect how much house you can afford.

•   Lender: You may be able to find a lender that allows for a DTI ratio that is higher than the standard 36%. (Some lenders allow a DTI as high as 50%.)

•   Location: Where you buy affects the type of house you can afford. This is one area that you can’t control, unless you move. If you are considering this option, take a look at the best affordable places to live in the U.S.

Recommended: The Cost of Living by State

How to Afford More House With Down Payment Assistance

If you want to be able to afford a more costly house, you may want to look into a down payment assistance program. These programs can help you with funding for a down payment on a mortgage. You can look for programs with your state or local housing authority.

Preference may be given to first-time homebuyers or lower-income families, but there are programs available for a wide variety of situations and incomes.

How to Calculate How Much House You Can Afford

If you want to know how much mortgage you’ll likely be able to qualify for, you’ll want to take a look at these guidelines.

The 28/36 Rule: Lenders look for home payments to be at or below 28% of your gross monthly income. Total debt payments should be less than 36% of your income. These are the front-end and back-end ratios you may hear your mortgage lender talking about.

•   Front-end ratio (28%): At 28% or your income, a monthly housing payment from a monthly income of $4,166 should be no more than $1,166.

•   Back-end ratio (36%): To calculate the back-end, or debt-to-income ratio, add your debt together and divide it by your income. This includes the new mortgage payment. With monthly income at $4,166, your debts should be no more than $1,500 ($4,166*.36).

The 35/45 Rule: The 35/45 rule is a higher debt level your lender can elect to follow. It’s riskier for them and may come at a higher interest rate for you. This rule allows you housing payment to be 35% of your monthly income and 45% of your total debt-to-income ratio. With a monthly income of $4,166, the housing allowance (35% of your income) increases to $1,458 and the total monthly debt (45% of your income) increases to $1,875.

An easier way to calculate how much home you can afford is with a home affordability calculator.

Home Affordability Examples

Making $50,000 a year gives you around $4,166 to work with each month. Using the 36% debt-to-income ratio, you can have maximum debt payments of $1,500 ($4,166 * .36). In the examples below, taxes ($2,500), insurance ($1,000), and interest rate (6%) remain the same for a 30-year loan term.

Example #1: High-debt borrower

Monthly credit card debt: $200

Monthly car payment: $400

Student loan payment: $200

Total debt = $800

Down payment = $20,000

Maximum DTI ratio = $4,166 * .36 = $1,500

Maximum mortgage payment = $700 ($1,500 – $800)

Home budget = $88,107

Example #2: The super saver

Monthly credit card debt: $0

Monthly car payment: $200

Student loan payment: $0

Total debt = $200

Down payment: $20,000

Maximum DTI ratio = $4,166 * .36 = $1,500

Maximum mortgage payment = $1,300 ($1,500 – $200)

Home budget = $171,925

How Your Monthly Payment Affects Your Price Range

Your monthly payment directly affects the mortgage you’re able to qualify for. The more monthly debts you have, the lower the mortgage you’ll be able to qualify for. That’s why it’s so important to take care of debts as soon as you can.

It’s also important to get the best interest rate you can. Shopping around for lenders and building your credit score can both save you money and improve home affordability. A home loan help center is a good place to start the process of looking for a mortgage.

Recommended: 10 Strategies for Building Credit Over Time

Types of Home Loans Available to $50K Households

How much home you can afford also comes down to the different types of mortgage loans. Here are some common options:

•   FHA loans: If your credit isn’t ideal, you may be able to secure a Federal Housing Administration mortgage. Though FHA loans are more costly, you can still be considered with a credit score as low as 500. FHA mortgage insurance, however, makes them more expensive than their alternatives.

•   USDA loans: If you’re in a rural area that is covered by United States Department of Agriculture loans, you’ll want to consider whether the low interest, no-down-loan will make sense for you.

•   Conventional loans: Conventional financing offers the most competitive interest rates and terms for mortgage applicants who qualify.

•   VA loans: If you have the option of financing with a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs loan, with few exceptions, you’ll generally want to take it. It offers some of the most competitive rates, even for zero-down-payment loans. It also comes with no minimum credit score requirement, though the final say on whether or not you can get a loan with a low credit score is up to the individual lender.

💡 Quick Tip: Don’t have a lot of cash on hand for a down payment? The minimum down payment for an FHA mortgage loan is as low as 3.5%.

The Takeaway

Your $50,000 salary is the first step in qualifying for the home mortgage loan you need to buy a house. To position yourself for the best possible borrowing scenario, consider paying down debt, working on your credit score, applying for down payment assistance, adding a co-borrower, or some combination of the above. With these moves, home affordability improves a great deal.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

Is $50K a good salary for a single person?

A $50,000 salary is good in terms of covering the cost of living in many parts of the U.S. With proper budgeting, it can even put you on the path to affording to purchase your own home.

What is a comfortable income for a single person?

Generally, an income of $40,000 to $60,000 per year is considered comfortable in many U.S. cities. This range allows for a decent standard of living, covering basic needs, some savings, and occasional luxuries. Adjustments may be needed based on cost of living and personal financial goals.

What is a livable wage in 2025?

A livable wage varies widely depending on where you live. According to the Living Wage Institute at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, for a family with two adults and two kids, a livable wage in 2025 might range from around $85,000 annually in Alabama or Kentucky to more than $146,000 in Massachusetts.

What salary is considered rich for a single person?

A salary of $400,000 per year would put you in the top 2% of earners in 2025. However, the definition of “rich” varies by person. One person may feel rich earning $100,000 per year, whereas for another, it may take $750,000 per year.


Photo credit: iStock/Tirachard

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Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.



*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

¹FHA loans are subject to unique terms and conditions established by FHA and SoFi. Ask your SoFi loan officer for details about eligibility, documentation, and other requirements. FHA loans require an Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP), which may be financed or paid at closing, in addition to monthly Mortgage Insurance Premiums (MIP). Maximum loan amounts vary by county. The minimum FHA mortgage down payment is 3.5% for those who qualify financially for a primary purchase. SoFi is not affiliated with any government agency.
Veterans, Service members, and members of the National Guard or Reserve may be eligible for a loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. VA loans are subject to unique terms and conditions established by VA and SoFi. Ask your SoFi loan officer for details about eligibility, documentation, and other requirements. VA loans typically require a one-time funding fee except as may be exempted by VA guidelines. The fee may be financed or paid at closing. The amount of the fee depends on the type of loan, the total amount of the loan, and, depending on loan type, prior use of VA eligibility and down payment amount. The VA funding fee is typically non-refundable. SoFi is not affiliated with any government agency.
Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

‡Up to $9,500 cash back: HomeStory Rewards is offered by HomeStory Real Estate Services, a licensed real estate broker. HomeStory Real Estate Services is not affiliated with SoFi Bank, N.A. (SoFi). SoFi is not responsible for the program provided by HomeStory Real Estate Services. Obtaining a mortgage from SoFi is optional and not required to participate in the program offered by HomeStory Real Estate Services. The borrower may arrange for financing with any lender. Rebate amount based on home sale price, see table for details.

Qualifying for the reward requires using a real estate agent that participates in HomeStory’s broker to broker agreement to complete the real estate buy and/or sell transaction. You retain the right to negotiate buyer and or seller representation agreements. Upon successful close of the transaction, the Real Estate Agent pays a fee to HomeStory Real Estate Services. All Agents have been independently vetted by HomeStory to meet performance expectations required to participate in the program. If you are currently working with a REALTOR®, please disregard this notice. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other REALTORS®. A reward is not available where prohibited by state law, including Alaska, Iowa, Louisiana and Missouri. A reduced agent commission may be available for sellers in lieu of the reward in Mississippi, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Oregon and should be discussed with the agent upon enrollment. No reward will be available for buyers in Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Oregon. A commission credit may be available for buyers in lieu of the reward in New Jersey and must be discussed with the agent upon enrollment and included in a Buyer Agency Agreement with Rebate Provision. Rewards in Kansas and Tennessee are required to be delivered by gift card.

HomeStory will issue the reward using the payment option you select and will be sent to the client enrolled in the program within 45 days of HomeStory Real Estate Services receipt of settlement statements and any other documentation reasonably required to calculate the applicable reward amount. Real estate agent fees and commissions still apply. Short sale transactions do not qualify for the reward. Depending on state regulations highlighted above, reward amount is based on sale price of the home purchased and/or sold and cannot exceed $9,500 per buy or sell transaction. Employer-sponsored relocations may preclude participation in the reward program offering. SoFi is not responsible for the reward.

SoFi Bank, N.A. (NMLS #696891) does not perform any activity that is or could be construed as unlicensed real estate activity, and SoFi is not licensed as a real estate broker. Agents of SoFi are not authorized to perform real estate activity.

If your property is currently listed with a REALTOR®, please disregard this notice. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other REALTORS®.

Reward is valid for 18 months from date of enrollment. After 18 months, you must re-enroll to be eligible for a reward.

SoFi loans subject to credit approval. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice.

The trademarks, logos and names of other companies, products and services are the property of their respective owners.


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A woman wearing glasses works on a laptop at a kitchen table, using a calculator, perhaps determining how much house she can afford.

I Make $36,000 a Year, How Much House Can I Afford?

One rule of thumb when buying a home is to not spend more than three times your annual salary. If you earn $36K a year, that means you can afford to spend around $108,000 on a house. This assumes you have no other debts you’re paying off, but also that you haven’t been able to save much for a down payment.

Of course, you’ll want to talk to a lender for your individual situation, which could qualify you for more (or less). If it sounds overwhelming, don’t worry. We’ll walk you through what it takes to qualify for a home, no matter what your income level is.

Key Points

•   With a $36,000 annual income, you might qualify for a home priced roughly $100,000–$110,000 (given modest down payment and minimal debt).

•   Your most important affordability factors are your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) and existing monthly debt obligations — lenders often target 36% DTI, though some may allow up to 50%.

•   The size of your down payment significantly affects what you can afford — more down payment means less mortgage required and more buying power.

•   Other critical variables include interest rate, credit score, property taxes and insurance, loan type, and geographic cost of living.

•   Various types of home loans are available, including conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA loans, each with different criteria.

What Kind of House Can I Afford With $36K a Year?

At a $36,000 annual income, you may need some help affording a home in today’s market. You’ll need to eliminate debt and make sure you have a good credit score, as well as find programs and lenders that can help. In addition to income and debt, your lender will take into account:

•   Your down payment

•   What taxes and insurance will cost

•   What interest rate you qualify for

•   The type of loan you’re applying for

•   Whether or not they can let your debt run up to 50% of your income

First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.

Questions? Call (888)-541-0398.


Understanding Debt-to-income Ratio

Beyond interest rates, debt is your biggest enemy to home affordability. The more debt you have to pay on a monthly basis, the less you’re able to pay toward a mortgage. In other words, your $200 monthly credit card payment could cost you thousands on the purchase price of a home.

To understand the debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, add all of your debts together and then divide that number by your monthly income. Your lender calculates your DTI ratio to determine how much you can afford as a monthly payment on a mortgage. The guideline is 36%, but some lenders can go higher on a home mortgage loan.

💡 Quick Tip: To see a house in person, particularly in a tight or expensive market, you may need to show the real estate agent proof that you’re preapproved for a mortgage. SoFi’s online application makes the process simple.

How to Factor in Your Down Payment

A down payment increases how much home you’ll be able to qualify for. The more you’re able to put down, the more home you’ll be able to afford.

You’ll also want to consider whether you can put down a deposit of more than 20% so you don’t have to buy mortgage insurance. This may help you qualify for a higher mortgage. Use a mortgage calculator to see how a down payment affects home affordability.

Factors That Affect Home Affordability

Home affordability goes beyond your down payment and DTI ratio. You also want to look at:

•   Interest rates: When interest rates are high, borrowers qualify for a lower mortgage. When they’re low, it may be possible to qualify for a higher mortgage.

•   Credit history and score: Your credit score is a reflection of your credit habits, and with a higher credit score, you’ll qualify for the best interest rates, giving you more buying power.

•   Taxes and insurance: If you live in an area with higher taxes, insurance, or homeowners association dues, these will be taken into account by your lender. You’ll qualify for a lower mortgage amount when these numbers are high.

•   Loan type: Depending on the type of loan you get, your interest rate, credit score, and down payment amount can affect how much house you can afford.

•   Lender: Lenders have the final say when it comes to approving you for a mortgage. In special circumstances, you may be able to qualify for more than a 36% DTI ratio. Some lenders approve borrowers with a DTI ratio around 50%.

•   Location: If you’re shopping in a state with a high cost of living, you’ll have a hard time qualifying for a mortgage no matter what your income level is. You may want to consider moving to a more affordable area, if possible.

Recommended: Best Affordable Places to Live in the U.S.

How to Afford More House With Down Payment Assistance

Down payment assistance programs can help you qualify for a larger mortgage. These types of programs have money to help with down payment or closing costs. They are usually offered at the state or local level with both grant and second mortgage programs.

They may limit participation to first-time homebuyers or borrowers with lower incomes, but you should still look into these programs and see if you can qualify.

Examples include CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program and the “Home Sweet Texas” Home Loan Program. You can look for programs in your own state, county, and city.


Get matched with a local
real estate agent and earn up to
$9,500 cash back when you close.

Recommended: Tips to Qualify for a Mortgage

How to Calculate How Much House You Can Afford

Knowing how much home you are likely to qualify for doesn’t have to be a mystery. While your lender may have flexibility, they generally follow these guidelines:

The 28/36 Rule: Lenders will look for housing payments (including mortgage, taxes, and insurance) to be no more than 28% of your income and total debt payments (including mortgage, car loan, student loan, etc.) to be no more than 36% of your income.

The 35/45 Rule: Some lenders allow for higher debt levels. This rule says the housing payment can be up to 35% of your income and total debt can be up to 45%.

An easy way to calculate how much home you can afford is with a home affordability calculator.

Home Affordability Examples

On a $36,000 annual salary, you’ll have $3,000 each month for expenses. Using the 36% debt-to-income ratio, you can have a maximum debt payments of $1,080 ($3,000 * .36). In the two examples below, taxes ($2,500), insurance ($1,000), and interest (6%) are the same for a 30-year loan term.

Example #1: Significant debt, large down payment

Monthly credit card debt: $100

Monthly car payment: $500

Student loan payment: $100

Total debt = $700

Down payment = $20,000

Maximum DTI ratio = $3,000 * .36 = $1,080

Maximum mortgage payment = $380 ($1,080 – $700)

Home budget = $34,733

Example #2: No down payment, little debt

Monthly credit card debt: $0

Monthly car payment: $0

Student loan payment: $100

Total debt = $100

Down payment: $0

Maximum DTI ratio = $3,000 * .36 = $1,080

Maximum mortgage payment = $980 ($1,080 – $100)

Home budget = $96,314

How Your Monthly Payment Affects Your Price Range

The amount you’re able to pay toward a mortgage each month determines how much home you’ll be able to afford. Any monthly payments you have, such as debt, can take away from how much you’re able to pay for a mortgage. Conversely, how much income you earn in a month can improve how much mortgage you can qualify for.

Interest rates also play a huge role in your monthly payment. Higher interest rates mean you’ll qualify for a lower mortgage while lower interest rates improve home affordability. That’s why homeowners get a mortgage refinance when interest rates drop.

Types of Home Loans Available to $36K Households

The different types of mortgage loans also affect home affordability. Some have a zero down payment option, flexible credit requirements, less expensive mortgage insurance, and varying interest rates. The different types of mortgage loans include:

•   FHA loans: Loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration are great for buyers with unique credit situations that can’t get approved for conventional financing. It can be more expensive to go with an FHA loan, but there are low down payment options and flexible credit requirements for those with a score as low as 500.

•   USDA loans: United States Department of Agriculture mortgages, available in rural areas, offer great interest rates, zero down payment options, and competitive mortgage insurance rates. Some USDA mortgages are directly serviced by USDA, and have a subsidized interest rate.

•   Conventional loans: Many borrowers opt for conventional financing if they qualify. Over the course of a mortgage, this is one of the least expensive types due to competitive interest rates and mortgage insurance premiums that drop off after you pay down the loan past 80%.

•   VA loans: A loan from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is hard to beat for service members, veterans, and others who qualify. You may be able to qualify for a home purchase price with no down payment. VA loans may have great interest rates and flexible credit requirements (depending on the lender).

💡 Quick Tip: Active duty service members who have served for at least 90 consecutive days are eligible for a VA loan. But so are many veterans, surviving spouses, and National Guard and Reserves members. It’s worth exploring with an online VA loan application because the low interest rates and other advantages of this loan can’t be beat.

The Takeaway

Purchasing a home on a $36,000 salary is a feat you’ll need help with in a market where the U.S. median sale price is $410,800. Whether it’s down payment assistance, paying down debt, nurturing your credit score, or adding income, there are moves you can make to bolster your home budget. In the end, when you move into a place that’s all yours, the hard work will be worth it.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

Is $36K a good salary for a single person?

A single person can afford to live on $36,000 a year in more affordable places in the U.S., but it could still be difficult to afford to buy a home in today’s real estate market.

What is a comfortable income for a single person?

Generally, an income of $40,000 to $60,000 per year is considered comfortable in many U.S. cities. This range allows for a decent standard of living, covering basic needs, some savings, and occasional luxuries. Adjustments may be needed based on cost of living and personal financial goals.

What is a liveable wage in 2025?

A “livable wage” in the U.S. in 2025 typically ranges from about $21 to $30 per hour for a single adult, depending heavily on local housing, childcare, and cost-of-living factors.

What salary is considered rich for a single person?

A salary of $400,000 per year would put you in the top 2% of earners in 2025. However, the definition of “rich” varies by person. One person may feel rich earning $100,000 per year, whereas for another, it may take $750,000 per year.


Photo credit: iStock/mapodile

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.



*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

¹FHA loans are subject to unique terms and conditions established by FHA and SoFi. Ask your SoFi loan officer for details about eligibility, documentation, and other requirements. FHA loans require an Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP), which may be financed or paid at closing, in addition to monthly Mortgage Insurance Premiums (MIP). Maximum loan amounts vary by county. The minimum FHA mortgage down payment is 3.5% for those who qualify financially for a primary purchase. SoFi is not affiliated with any government agency.
Veterans, Service members, and members of the National Guard or Reserve may be eligible for a loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. VA loans are subject to unique terms and conditions established by VA and SoFi. Ask your SoFi loan officer for details about eligibility, documentation, and other requirements. VA loans typically require a one-time funding fee except as may be exempted by VA guidelines. The fee may be financed or paid at closing. The amount of the fee depends on the type of loan, the total amount of the loan, and, depending on loan type, prior use of VA eligibility and down payment amount. The VA funding fee is typically non-refundable. SoFi is not affiliated with any government agency.
Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

‡Up to $9,500 cash back: HomeStory Rewards is offered by HomeStory Real Estate Services, a licensed real estate broker. HomeStory Real Estate Services is not affiliated with SoFi Bank, N.A. (SoFi). SoFi is not responsible for the program provided by HomeStory Real Estate Services. Obtaining a mortgage from SoFi is optional and not required to participate in the program offered by HomeStory Real Estate Services. The borrower may arrange for financing with any lender. Rebate amount based on home sale price, see table for details.

Qualifying for the reward requires using a real estate agent that participates in HomeStory’s broker to broker agreement to complete the real estate buy and/or sell transaction. You retain the right to negotiate buyer and or seller representation agreements. Upon successful close of the transaction, the Real Estate Agent pays a fee to HomeStory Real Estate Services. All Agents have been independently vetted by HomeStory to meet performance expectations required to participate in the program. If you are currently working with a REALTOR®, please disregard this notice. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other REALTORS®. A reward is not available where prohibited by state law, including Alaska, Iowa, Louisiana and Missouri. A reduced agent commission may be available for sellers in lieu of the reward in Mississippi, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Oregon and should be discussed with the agent upon enrollment. No reward will be available for buyers in Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Oregon. A commission credit may be available for buyers in lieu of the reward in New Jersey and must be discussed with the agent upon enrollment and included in a Buyer Agency Agreement with Rebate Provision. Rewards in Kansas and Tennessee are required to be delivered by gift card.

HomeStory will issue the reward using the payment option you select and will be sent to the client enrolled in the program within 45 days of HomeStory Real Estate Services receipt of settlement statements and any other documentation reasonably required to calculate the applicable reward amount. Real estate agent fees and commissions still apply. Short sale transactions do not qualify for the reward. Depending on state regulations highlighted above, reward amount is based on sale price of the home purchased and/or sold and cannot exceed $9,500 per buy or sell transaction. Employer-sponsored relocations may preclude participation in the reward program offering. SoFi is not responsible for the reward.

SoFi Bank, N.A. (NMLS #696891) does not perform any activity that is or could be construed as unlicensed real estate activity, and SoFi is not licensed as a real estate broker. Agents of SoFi are not authorized to perform real estate activity.

If your property is currently listed with a REALTOR®, please disregard this notice. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other REALTORS®.

Reward is valid for 18 months from date of enrollment. After 18 months, you must re-enroll to be eligible for a reward.

SoFi loans subject to credit approval. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice.

The trademarks, logos and names of other companies, products and services are the property of their respective owners.


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Tips For Navigating Life After College

Graduating college is a big deal. The time you spent in school has likely taught you a lot about the subjects you studied, being organized and meeting deadlines, and life in general. Once you have your degree, you’ll put those skills to good use as you embark on your career and independent life. No more dining hall, no more dorms. It’s time to launch adult life and figure out how to make your own way.

To help you deal with some of the basics, like a job and banking, read on. You’ll find valuable tips to help you through the first steps of post-grad life.

Key Points

•   For college grads, extensive networking and using school resources can help in job searching.

•   Regular health check-ups and understanding health care plan resources are crucial as new grads begin to navigate life on their own.

•   Continuing education through certifications or online classes could assist college grads in learning new skills and boosting their career.

•   Creating a monthly budget could help manage student loan debt.

•   Maintaining a balanced lifestyle with activities for physical and mental well-being is important.

Life After College

Congrats on your degree! Now, on to the next challenge. It’s time to tackle adulting, which can include such things as getting set up in your new living situation, finding your favorite brunch spot, and making new friends if your college pals have scattered to different places.

In addition, there are some major daily-life tasks to wrangle:

•   Finding and holding a job

•   Taking control of your health and your health insurance

•   Keeping your brain active, which may lead to more schooling

•   Managing your money.

Below, get some helpful advice on these last four topics (you can probably find the best brunch spot in your new neighborhood without too much help).


💡 Quick Tip: Enjoy no hidden fees and special member benefits when you refinance student loans with SoFi.

Getting to Work

Hopefully you enjoyed a few weeks off post-grad to travel or kick back and relax after four years of hard work. But for many people, what to do after college is find work.

When you’re ready to begin your job search, it can feel overwhelming. Chances are, it’s time to focus on taking steps towards building your career.

First off, don’t let job searching totally stress you out. While entry-level hiring has slowed in 2025, and there is higher unemployment for new grads, it is still possible to find a job.

It could just require more time and patience. Some good advice? Research, network, and network some more.

•   Your school’s career services office may provide job leads, and its alumni office may be able to network you with people in your field who can share insights.

•   Search for jobs online. There are many job boards, such as Indeed and ZipRecruiter, to access.

•   Put out the word among friends, families, past internship supervisors, and others.

•   To gain intel on starting salaries, try an online salary calculator. You provide some basic info like your location and experience, and their tool tells you what the average salary for your desired role is. While this tool can only provide an estimate, it may help you determine if you should try to negotiate for a higher salary when you receive a job offer.

Taking Your Health into Your Own Hands

As part of learning how to navigate life on your own, make sure you take the reins of your healthcare. Mom and Dad likely aren’t scheduling those biannual dental checkups for you anymore.

Whether you’re still on your parent’s policy or buying your own health insurance, getting more familiar with the resources your healthcare plan provides is never a bad idea.

It can help you stay on top of scheduling check ups, dental cleanings, and eye exams. You may also need to learn the ropes of finding in-network doctors as you move to a new place or get your own policy.

And you might want to start saving for any unexpected medical or dental bills that may arise. Having an emergency fund at the ready can be an important step to financial wellness in this new chapter of your life.

Speaking of wellness: You may feel swamped by post-grad life, but it’s such an important time to prioritize your well-being. It might be helpful to make time to go to the gym each week, meditate, cook healthy meals, and get a good night’s sleep. Getting into good health habits is an excellent adulting accomplishment.


💡 Quick Tip: Refinancing could be a great choice for working graduates who have higher-interest graduate PLUS loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and/or private loans.

Continuing Your Learning

It’s normal after college to need a little break from learning. For the first time in your life, there is no one telling you what to read or what classes you have to take. But once the dust has settled and you’ve had a rest from hitting the books, you might try to prioritize learning. Not only does it keep your brain sharp, it can also help boost your career by enhancing or expanding your skills.

For example, you could consider obtaining a professional license related to your career or industry. According to the most recent intel from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 24% of employed workers had some sort of professional license or certification in 2024. Having one may give you a competitive boost at work or while job searching. You can go the extra mile to develop more skills needed in your career through an online class or professional conference.

What’s more, additional learning and training could lead to a profitable side hustle or gig work. For instance, you might be able to pick up extra cash during tax season supporting professional tax preparers.

Learning-wise, not all of what you do after graduation has to go towards career advancement, of course. Take that cool history of film class at your local community college. Join a book club or just load up your bookshelf with books you’re dying to read. Exploring your passions can help you feel motivated, fulfilled, and inspired. Now is the time in your life to open doors, not close them.

Recommended: What Should I Do After My Master’s Degree?

Getting Your Finances Organized

Once you graduate from college and join the working world, it’s likely time to look at whether your current banking partner suits your needs.

It can be a wise move to look for a bank that offers a good interest rate on your deposits, convenient access, and tools that help you track your money in a quick and convenient way.

As you organize your money (and don’t forget to start that emergency fund mentioned above), you may realize that one expense that may really be bringing you down is your student loan debt payments.

The average federal student loan debt is currently $39,075, according to the Education Data Initiative. Is student loan debt weighing you down? There are a few strategies you can use to help pay off your student loan debt quicker. You might start your journey to a student loan-free life by creating a monthly budget that can help you get out of debt.

•   To create a budget that can assist with paying off debt, you could begin by gathering all of your bills and recent receipts. Review exactly what you need to spend on necessary living expenses (rent, food, health insurance, minimum debt payments), how much you are spending on the wants in life (travel, entertainment, clothing), and how much you can save or put toward additional debt payment.

•   There are different budgeting methods, and it’s a good idea to spend a bit of time finding the one that works for you. For instance, you might like the 50/30/20 budget rule, which says to allocate 50% of your take-home pay to necessities, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings and extra debt payoff.

Whichever technique you choose, do compare the cost of your living expenses to your paystubs to see how much you can afford to pay towards debt each month. Creating a budget can help you not only pay off your debt, but avoid accumulating more debt in the future.

Recommended: 6 Strategies to Pay Off Student Loans Quickly

The Takeaway

Life after college is exciting, but it can also be challenging. You’ll need to find a job, take control of your health, keep sharpening your skills, and learn to manage your finances, including setting up a budget.

Once you have your monthly budget under control, you might consider refinancing your student loans as part of how you navigate life post-college. You may be able to lower your interest rate, lower your monthly payments by extending your repayment term, or release a cosigner from a previous loan.

Do note that lengthening your repayment term can increase the interest you’ll pay throughout the life of your loan.

Refinancing comes with many benefits, but keep in mind that you lose federal benefits and protections when you refinance federal loans with a private lender. But if you are not planning on taking advantage of these benefits, refinancing might be for you.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

What’s the biggest challenge grads face after college?

One of the biggest challenges grads face after college is finding a job that utilizes their skills and talents and pays well. In addition, new grads are facing other challenges, such as getting settled in their new life — possibly in a new home in a new city — working on managing their finances, perhaps for the first time, and starting to pay off student loan debt.

Why is it so hard for recent college graduates to get a job now?

College grads are currently facing a slowing job market for entry-level jobs, economic uncertainty, and higher unemployment. Networking, brushing up on or learning skills that employers are seeking, and putting the word out to family, friends, and former employers that you are job searching are some ways to potentially help boost your job search.

How important is your first job out of college?

A first job doesn’t define your career, and in this challenging job market it’s important to be flexible. Grads might end up with an entry-level job that is different from one they might have envisioned. That said, a first job can help a new grad develop skills and build a professional network. If possible, look for a position that aligns with your career goals as much as possible and that also allows you to use the skills you have while developing new ones.


SoFi Student Loan Refinance
Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers.
Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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A woman sits at a desk, looking intently at her laptop screen.

Personal Loan vs Credit Card

Both personal loans and credit cards provide access to extra funds and can be used to consolidate debt. However, these two lending products work in very different ways.

A credit card credit is a type of revolving credit. You have access to a line of credit and your balance fluctuates with your spending. A personal loan, by contrast, provides a lump sum of money you pay back in regular installments over time. Generally, personal loans work better for large purchases, while credit cards are better for day-to-day spending, especially if you are able to pay off the balance in full each month.

Here’s a closer look at how credit cards and personal loans compare, their advantages and disadvantages, and when to choose one over the other.

Key Points

•   Personal loans provide a lump sum with fixed interest and regular installments, suitable for large, one-time expenses.

•   Credit cards offer a revolving line of credit, ideal for everyday spending and potential rewards.

•   Personal loans can save money on interest and simplify debt management when used for debt consolidation.

•   Using credit cards for debt consolidation requires paying off the balance before higher interest rates apply.

•   Both personal loans and credit cards have unique benefits and risks, depending on financial discipline and usage.

Personal Loans, Defined

Personal loans are loans available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders that can be used for virtually any purpose. Some of the most common uses include debt consolidation, home improvements, and large purchases.

Lenders generally offer loans from $1,000 to $50,000 or $100,000, with repayment terms of two to seven years. You receive the loan proceeds in one lump sum and then repay the loan, plus interest, in regular monthly payments over the loan’s term.

Personal loans are typically unsecured, meaning you don’t have to provide collateral (an asset of value) to guarantee the loan. Instead, lenders look at factors like credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and cash flow when assessing a borrower’s application.

Unsecured personal loans typically come with fixed interest rates, which means your payments will be the same over the life of the loan. Some lenders offer variable rate personal loans, which means the rate, and your payments, can fluctuate depending on market conditions.

Personal loans generally work best when they are used to reach a specific, longer-term financial goal. For example, you might use a personal loan to finance a home improvement project that increases the value of your home. Or, you might consider a debt consolidation loan to help you pay down high-interest credit card debt at a lower interest rate.

Recommended: Personal Loan Calculator

Key Differences: Credit Card vs Personal Loan

Both credit cards and personal loans offer a borrower access to funds that they promise to pay back later, and are both typically unsecured. However, there are some key differences that may have major financial ramifications for borrowers down the line.

•   Unlike a personal loan, a credit card is a form of revolving debt. Instead of getting a lump sum of money that you pay back over time, you get access to a credit line that you tap as needed. You can borrow what you need (up to your credit limit), and only pay interest on what you actually borrow.

•   Interest rates for personal loans are typically fixed for the life of the loan, whereas credit cards generally have variable interest rates. Credit cards also generally charge higher interest rates than personal loans, making it an expensive form of debt. However, you won’t owe any interest if you pay the balance in full each month.

•   Credit cards are also unique in that they can offer rewards and, in some cases, may come with a 0% introductory offer on purchases and/or balance transfers (though there is often a fee for a balance transfer).

Line of Credit vs Loan

A line of credit, such as a personal line of credit or home equity line of credit (HELOC), is a type of revolving credit. Similar to a credit card, you can draw from a line of credit and repay the funds during what’s referred to as the draw period. When the draw period ends, you’re no longer allowed to make withdrawals and would need to reapply to keep the line of credit open.

Loans, such as personal loans and home equity loans, have what’s called a non-revolving credit limit. This means the borrower has access to the funds only once, and then they make principal and interest payments until the debt is paid off.

Consolidating Debt? Personal Loan vs Credit Card

Using a new loan or credit credit card to pay off existing debt is known as debt consolidation, and it can potentially save you money in interest.

Two popular ways to consolidate debt are taking out an unsecured personal loan (often referred to as a debt or credit card consolidation loan) or opening a 0% interest balance transfer credit card. These two approaches have some similarities as well as key differences that can impact your financial wellness over time.

Using a Credit Card to Consolidate Debt

Credit card refinancing generally works by opening a new credit card with a high enough limit to cover whatever balance you already have. Some credit cards offer a 0% interest rate on a temporary, promotional basis — sometimes for 18 months or longer.

If you are able to transfer your credit card balance to a 0% balance transfer card and pay it off before the promotional period ends, it can be a great opportunity to save money on interest. However, if you don’t pay off the balance in that time frame, you’ll be charged the card’s regular interest rate, which could be as high (or possibly higher) than what you were paying before.

Another potential hitch is that credit cards with promotional 0% rate typically charge balance transfer fees, which can range from 3% to 5% of the amount being transferred. Before pulling the trigger on a transfer, consider whether the amount you’ll save on interest will be enough to make up for any transfer fee.

Using a Personal Loan to Consolidate Debt

Debt consolidation is a common reason why people take out personal loans. Credit card consolidation loans offer a fixed interest rate and provide a lump sum of money, which you would use to pay off your existing debt.

If you have solid credit, a personal loan for debt consolidation may come with a lower annual percentage rate (APR) than what you have on your current credit cards. For example, the average personal loan interest rate as of late 2025 is 12.25% percent, while the average credit card interest rate is now 20.03%. That difference should allow you to pay the balance down faster and pay less interest in total.

Rolling multiple debts into one loan can also simplify your finances. Instead of keeping track of several payment due dates and minimum amounts due, you end up with one loan and one payment each month. This can make it less likely that you’ll miss a payment and have to pay a late fee or penalty.

Both 0% balance transfer cards and debt consolidation loans have benefits and drawbacks, though credit cards can be riskier than personal loans over the long term — even when they have a 0% promotional interest rate.

Is a Credit Card Ever a Good Option?

Credit cards can work well for smaller, day-to-day expenses that you can pay off, ideally, in full when you get your bill. Credit card companies only charge you interest if you carry a balance from month to month. Thus, if you pay your balance in full each month, you’re essentially getting an interest-free, short-term loan. If you have a rewards credit card, you can also rack up cash back or rewards points at the same time, for a win-win.

If you can qualify for a 0% balance transfer card, credit cards can also be a good way to consolidate high interest credit card debt, provided you don’t have to pay a high balance transfer fee and you can pay the card off before the higher interest rate kicks in.

With credit cards, however, discipline is key. It’s all too easy to charge more than you can pay off. If you do, credit cards can be an expensive way to borrow money. Generally, any rewards you can earn won’t make up for the interest you’ll owe. If all you pay is the minimum balance each month, you could be paying off that same balance for years — and that’s assuming you don’t put any more charges on the card.

When Is a Personal Loan a Good Option?

Personal loans can be a good option for covering a large, one-off expense, such as a car repair, home improvement project, large purchase, or wedding. They can also be useful for consolidating high-interest debt into a single loan with a lower interest rate.

Personal loans usually offer a lower interest rate than credit cards. In addition, they offer steady, predictable payments until you pay the debt off. This predictability makes it easier to budget for your payments. Plus, you know exactly when you’ll be out of debt.

Because personal loans are usually not secured by collateral, however, the lender is taking a greater risk and will most likely charge a higher interest rate compared to a secured loan. Just how high your rate will be can depend on a number of factors, including your credit score and debt-to-income ratio.

Recommended: Using a Personal Loan to Pay Off Credit Card Debt

The Takeaway

When comparing personal loans vs. credit cards, keep in mind that personal loans usually have lower interest rates (unless you have poor credit) than credit cards, making it a better choice if you need a few years to pay off the debt. Credit cards, on the other hand, can be a better option for day-to-day purchases that you can pay off relatively quickly.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.


SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

FAQ

Is it better to have a personal loan than a credit card?

Typically, credit cards carry a higher interest rate than personal loans, but each financial product has its pros and cons. Consider your situation and the particular use you have in mind for the funds to make the right decision or your needs.

Is it better to apply for a personal loan or a credit card?

Whether a personal loan or a credit card is best for you depends on your needs and your financial situation. Typically, personal loans have lower interest rates and can be appropriate for large expenditures. Credit cards can be convenient for daily spending, but it’s best to pay your balance in full every month to avoid high interest charges.

What are the cons of personal loans?

The downsides of personal loans can include possible high fees and interest rates (which usually depend on your credit score). In addition, if not managed responsibly, a personal loan could damage your credit score.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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