Realtor.com’s recent report reveals exactly how much you need to pay in every state to afford a luxury home. The research team analyzed the top 5% of home listings by price—defining these as “luxury” properties—and calculated the average cost within that group. They then determined the minimum annual salary required to afford a mortgage on such a home, assuming a 6.89% interest rate, a 20% down payment, and that the mortgage payment does not exceed 30% of your income.
While we can’t list all 50 states in one post, here’s a detailed look at the top 10 luxury markets and the typical price of a luxury home alongside the income needed to buy one:
| Rank | State | Luxury Price | Required Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NY | $5,488,510 | $1,155,540 |
| 2 | HI | $5,257,761 | $1,106,959 |
| 3 | WY | $4,214,250 | $887,260 |
| 4 | MA | $4,097,500 | $862,680 |
| 5 | CA | $4,045,290 | $851,687 |
| 6 | CT | $3,605,344 | $759,062 |
| 7 | MT | $3,543,333 | $746,006 |
| 8 | CO | $3,337,108 | $702,588 |
| 9 | RI | $2,995,000 | $630,561 |
| 10 | UT | $2,918,795 | $614,517 |
Key Insights from the Report
- Definition of Luxury:
Realtor.com considers the top 5% of listings by price as “luxury” homes. This clear definition allows for apples-to-apples comparisons across diverse markets. - Methodology:
The report calculates the average price of these top-tier properties and uses the 30% income rule to determine the minimum salary needed to afford a mortgage at a 6.89% interest rate with a 20% down payment. This approach offers a realistic snapshot of what buyers need to earn to enter the luxury market. - Regional Differences:
The data exposes dramatic regional disparities. For instance, luxury homes in New York average around $5.49 million, requiring an annual income of approximately $1.16 million, while in West Virginia (not shown in this top 10), the price and income requirements are much lower. These differences underscore how the luxury market is not a monolith but varies widely by state. - Impact on Buyers and Investors:
For potential buyers and investors, understanding these figures is crucial. It not only highlights the financial commitment required to enter the luxury market but also provides valuable insights for negotiating deals, securing financing, and planning long-term investments. - Opportunities for Real Estate Professionals:
This comprehensive analysis gives luxury agents a powerful tool to impress clients with deep market knowledge. By leveraging this data, agents can help prospective buyers understand the market dynamics in their desired regions and tailor their strategies to secure the best possible deals.
Our Take
Realtor.com’s report provides a clear, data-driven snapshot of what it costs to buy luxury in the top markets. It’s not just about the sticker price; it’s about understanding the income thresholds required to maintain a certain standard of living in these high-end markets. For luxury agents, this report is a goldmine of information that can help dazzle potential clients, showcase market expertise, and ultimately drive smarter decisions in the luxury real estate space.
By knowing these numbers, agents can better position themselves as trusted advisors, ensuring clients are fully informed about the financial realities of purchasing a luxury property in their desired market. Whether you’re looking to invest in New York’s bustling luxury scene or explore opportunities in sunny California, these insights can help you navigate the complexities of high-end real estate.
Contact Abdo Pierre Faissal for unparalleled real estate service.
📞 310-620-1038 | ✉️ [email protected]