Mortgage Rates in Washington, District of Columbia — March 2026
Updated March 2026 | Based on Washington market data and regional lending conditions
Washington is a major metropolitan area in District of Columbia with a population of 689,545. The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Washington is 6.57%, which is 0.08% below the national average. With a median home price of $620,000 and a 20% down payment of $124,000, homebuyers can expect a monthly principal and interest payment of approximately $3,158.
Current Mortgage Rates in Washington, DC
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Washington area as of March 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.57% | 6.65% | -0.08% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.81% | 5.89% | -0.08% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.07% | 6.15% | -0.08% |
| FHA | 6.17% | 6.25% | -0.08% |
| VA | 5.97% | 6.05% | -0.08% |
| Jumbo | 6.77% | 6.85% | -0.08% |
Washington Housing Market Overview
The Washington housing market is competitive with prices well above the national median. The median household income in Washington is $90,842, and the cost of living index is 152.1 (national average = 100). Based on the 28% affordability rule, you would need an income of approximately $147,729 to comfortably afford the median-priced home in Washington, which exceeds the current median household income.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Washington
Based on the median home price of $620,000 with 20% down ($124,000), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Washington:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Washington
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Washington at 5.81% instead of a 30-year at 6.57% would save you $392,580 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $4,135 instead of $3,158 — an increase of $977 per month.
Calculate Your Washington Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Washington
What are the current mortgage rates in Washington, DC?
As of March 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Washington, District of Columbia is 6.57%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.81%. FHA loans average 6.17% and VA loans 5.97%. These rates are 0.08% below the national average of 6.65%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Washington?
Based on the median home price of $620,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Washington is $3,158 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $289/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $3,447.
What income do I need to buy a home in Washington?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $147,729 to afford the median-priced home in Washington at $620,000. The median household income in Washington is $90,842. This means most households would need to either earn above the median or consider homes below $620,000.
Is Washington a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Washington has a higher cost of living than average with a cost of living index of 152.1 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in District of Columbia is 0.56%, which is below the national average. As a major city with 689,545 residents, Washington offers diverse employment opportunities and amenities.
Related Tools & Guides
Last updated: March 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Washington, District of Columbia area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.