Arlington, Texas Mortgage Calculator

Arlington median home prices stand at $250,000 in 2025, making it one of DFW Metroplex's most affordable major cities and exceptional value proposition. As Texas's 7th largest city strategically positioned between Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington offers diverse housing: Newer developments (south Arlington, Mansfield area) $280K-$380K, established neighborhoods (central Arlington) $220K-$300K, entertainment district proximity (Rangers Globe Life Field, Cowboys AT&T Stadium) $240K-$320K, while North Arlington and older areas provide entry-level $180K-$250K options. The market shows strong fundamentals with steady appreciation, good inventory, and consistent demand driven by central DFW location (equidistant Dallas/Fort Worth), major employers (GM Assembly Plant, University of Texas Arlington 40K+ students), and unmatched entertainment infrastructure creating affordable DFW access.

To afford Arlington's median home price of $250,000, you typically need household income of at least $63,000-$72,000 annually, assuming 20% down payment ($50,000) and following 28% front-end DTI ratio. On a $250K home, expect monthly payments around $1,800-$2,000 including principal, interest, property taxes (1.65%), and insurance. Texas has no state income tax - a significant advantage delivering $2,500-$5,000 annual savings versus high-tax states. Arlington's affordability ($250K vs $420K Plano, $425K Dallas, $440K Austin) makes homeownership accessible for young families, first-time buyers, service industry workers (entertainment/hospitality), UT Arlington students/staff, and GM/manufacturing employees seeking DFW central location with major metro access at fraction of cost.

Arlington is in Tarrant County with property tax rate of approximately 1.65%, above the national average (0.99%) but typical for Texas. On a $250,000 home, expect annual property taxes around $4,125. Texas offers homestead exemption reducing taxable value by $100,000 for school taxes plus additional exemptions for general taxes, potentially saving $1,200-$1,800 annually. Property taxes fund Arlington ISD schools, police/fire services, parks, and city infrastructure including entertainment district development. Despite higher property tax rate, Texas's no state income tax policy results in lower overall tax burden compared to income-tax states. Arlington's $250K affordability ($170K cheaper than Austin, $175K cheaper than Dallas) combined with central DFW location, entertainment amenities, and UT Arlington create compelling value for families prioritizing affordability with major metro access.

Arlington shows balanced to buyer-friendly market conditions in 2025 with good inventory and steady pricing. Key indicators: homes averaging 35-50 days on market, inventory levels providing choice, and moderate appreciation. Arlington benefits from strategic central DFW location (equidistant Dallas/Fort Worth - 20 mins to each downtown), major employment (GM Assembly Plant, UT Arlington 40K students/5K+ staff, Texas Health Resources, Six Flags/entertainment 15K+ jobs), entertainment infrastructure (Rangers Globe Life Field, Cowboys AT&T Stadium, Six Flags, Hurricane Harbor, multiple event venues), and affordability ($250K median 40% cheaper than DFW average). The market attracts young families, first-time buyers, entertainment industry workers, UT Arlington community, and value-seeking DFW metro commuters. No state income tax, central location, and entertainment capital status with exceptional affordability create strong fundamentals.

Arlington stands out in DFW through unique combination: Entertainment capital status (Rangers Globe Life Field, Cowboys AT&T Stadium, Six Flags, Hurricane Harbor, Arlington Music Hall, Esports Stadium Arlington - more professional sports venues than most U.S. cities); Central location advantage (equidistant Dallas/Fort Worth - 20 mins to each, 25 mins DFW Airport); Exceptional affordability ($250K median 40% cheaper than Dallas/Austin, 41% cheaper than Plano); UT Arlington presence (40K students, research institution, cultural diversity); Major employers (GM Assembly Plant, Texas Health Resources); No state income tax benefit. Entertainment district development creates jobs, dining, urban amenities rarely found at this price point. Arlington offers DFW metro access, professional sports culture, and university energy with suburban affordability. Ideal for young families, first-time buyers, sports fans, and value-seekers wanting central Metroplex location without premium pricing.

With a $70,000 annual salary, you can typically afford a home priced between $210,000-$280,000, assuming good credit, 20% down payment, and following the 28/36 debt rule. Use our calculator above for your exact situation.

Minimum credit scores vary by loan type: Conventional loans require 620+, FHA loans accept 580+ (or 500+ with 10% down), VA loans have no minimum but lenders typically want 620+, and USDA loans need 640+.

A 20% down payment eliminates PMI requirements, which typically costs 0.5-1% annually. However, many buyers purchase with less down. This is educational information - evaluate your specific situation and consult professionals.

Closing costs typically range from 2-5% of the home price. On a $300,000 house, expect $6,000-$15,000 in closing costs including appraisal, inspection, title insurance, and lender fees.

A fixed-rate mortgage has the same interest rate for the life of the loan, meaning your monthly principal and interest payments are stable. An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) has a rate that changes periodically, so your monthly payments could increase or decrease.

To improve your DTI ratio, you can either increase your income or decrease your debt. Consider strategies like paying down high-interest loans, avoiding new debt, and exploring opportunities to boost your earnings.

A home appraisal is a professional assessment of a property's value. It is important because lenders use it to ensure they are not lending more money than the property is worth. A low appraisal can impact your ability to secure a loan.

A 15-year mortgage typically has a lower interest rate and you will pay less interest over the life of the loan. However, the monthly payments are higher. A 30-year mortgage has lower monthly payments, but you will pay more in interest over time.