Mortgage Rates in Washington, District of Columbia — April 2026
Updated April 2026 | Based on Washington market data and regional lending conditions
As one of District of Columbia's largest cities with 689,545 residents, Washington has a well-established mortgage lending market. The current 30-year fixed rate here is 6.57% (0.48% above the national average). The median home price of $620,000 translates to roughly $3,447/month with 20% down — requiring an income of about $147,729, which exceeds the local median of $90,842.
Whether you call it a 30-year mortgage, 30-year home loan, 30-year house loan, or 30-year mortgage loan, the underlying product is the same: a fixed-rate amortizing loan paid over 360 months. In Washington, DC, the current 30-year rate is 6.57%. Shorter terms (15-year fixed at 5.81% or 20-year fixed, typically priced between the 15- and 30-year) reduce total interest paid but increase monthly payments — see our 15-year vs 30-year comparison for the math. Government-backed options include FHA loans (6.17%) and VA loans (5.97%), often available at lower rates with reduced down payment requirements.
Current Mortgage Rates in Washington, DC
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Washington area as of April 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% | 6.09% | +0.48% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.81% | 5.58% | +0.23% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.07% | 5.95% | +0.12% |
| FHA | 6.17% | 5.85% | +0.32% |
| VA | 5.97% | 5.65% | +0.32% |
| Jumbo | 6.77% | 6.25% | +0.52% |
Washington Housing Market Overview
Washington's housing market is competitive — median prices of $620,000 put it well above the national median of ~$400,000. Buyers here face higher barriers to entry, but the local economy (median household income: $90,842) may not fully support current asking prices.
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 April 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 0.48% above the national average of 6.09%.
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.
Mortgage Rates by ZIP Code in Washington, DC
Explore mortgage rates for specific ZIP codes in the Washington area. Rates can vary by neighborhood based on local property values and lending competition.
Related Tools & Guides
📊 Sources & Methodology
- 30-yr/15-yr fixed rates: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS), weekly national average adjusted for District of Columbia regional spread.
- Median home price: $620,000 sourced from Redfin / Zillow real estate listings (2026 data).
- Property tax rate: 0.56% effective rate per Tax Foundation 2026 state property tax data.
- Median household income: $90,842 per US Census Bureau ACS 5-year estimate.
- Calculations: standard amortization formula M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n − 1], with r = monthly rate, n = 360 months, P = loan amount (80% of home price).
Last updated: April 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.