Florida FHA Loans 2026
The Sunshine State offers incredible opportunities for first-time buyers with FHA financing. From Miami condos to Orlando suburbs, FHA loans provide a path to Florida homeownership with just 3.5% down and limits up to $1,249,125 in the Keys.
What is an FHA Loan & Why Florida Buyers Love Them
FHA loans are government-backed mortgages designed to make homeownership accessible. They're especially popular in Florida where rising home prices can make saving for a large down payment challenging.
What is mortgage insurance?
FHA mortgage insurance (MIP) protects lenders against default, allowing them to offer lower down payments. It costs 1.75% upfront + 0.55% annually.
Florida-Specific Considerations
Flood insurance may be required in many Florida zones. FHA requires adequate coverage, which we help you navigate.
2026 Florida FHA Loan Limits by County
Florida's FHA limits vary significantly. South Florida coastal counties and the Keys have higher limits due to elevated home prices.
| County / Metro Area | 2026 FHA Limit | Classification |
|---|---|---|
Monroe (Florida Keys) | $1,249,125 | High-Cost |
Miami-Dade | $621,000 | High-Cost |
Broward (Fort Lauderdale) | $621,000 | High-Cost |
Palm Beach | $832,750 | High-Cost |
Collier (Naples) | $730,250 | High-Cost |
Orange (Orlando) | $524,225 | Standard |
Hillsborough (Tampa) | $524,225 | Standard |
Duval (Jacksonville) | $524,225 | Standard |
Lee (Fort Myers) | $524,225 | Standard |
Pinellas (St. Petersburg) | $524,225 | Standard |
Pro Tip: If your desired home exceeds FHA limits, consider a Florida jumbo loan orconventional financing.
Florida FHA Down Payment Assistance Programs
Stack these programs with your FHA loan to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Florida Hometown Heroes Program
Up to $35,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance for teachers, nurses, first responders, military, and other essential workers.
- 0% interest, deferred second mortgage
- 50+ eligible professions
- Works with FHA, VA, USDA loans
Florida Assist (FL Assist)
Up to $10,000 as a 0%, non-amortizing second mortgage. No monthly payments until sale or refinance.
- No income limits in most areas
- First-time and repeat buyers eligible
Florida HFA Preferred
Below-market interest rates combined with up to 4% in down payment assistance through participating lenders.
Calculate Your Florida FHA Payment
Use our FHA mortgage calculator to see your estimated monthly payment including mortgage insurance, property taxes, and flood insurance.
Reviewed by Emmett Clark
NMLS #233747 • 20+ Years Experience • Florida FHA Specialist
"Florida's FHA market is unique because of the condo landscape and flood insurance requirements. I've helped hundreds of Florida buyers navigate FHA condo approvals and find the right flood coverage. Whether you're eyeing a Miami high-rise or a Tampa single-family home, FHA makes Florida homeownership achievable for first-time buyers."
Florida FHA Loan FAQs
What is the FHA loan limit in Florida for 2026?
Florida FHA loan limits for 2026 range from $524,225 in standard counties to $1,249,125 in Monroe County (Florida Keys). Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties have limits of $621,000-$832,750.
How much is FHA mortgage insurance in Florida?
FHA mortgage insurance in Florida includes an upfront MIP of 1.75% (can be financed) plus annual MIP of 0.55% for most loans. On a $400,000 loan, expect approximately $183/month in mortgage insurance premiums.
What credit score do I need for an FHA loan in Florida?
The minimum credit score for an FHA loan in Florida is 580 for 3.5% down payment, or 500-579 for 10% down. Most Florida lenders prefer scores of 620+ for better rates and faster approval.
Does Florida have FHA down payment assistance programs?
Yes! Florida offers several FHA-compatible programs including Florida Hometown Heroes (up to $35,000 for essential workers), Florida Assist (up to $10,000 second mortgage), and county-specific programs in Miami-Dade, Orange, and Hillsborough counties.
Can I use FHA for a condo in Florida?
Yes, but the condo must be FHA-approved. Florida has over 3,000 FHA-approved condos. Key requirements include adequate reserves, owner-occupancy ratios, and proper insurance coverage including flood insurance where required.
Explore Other Florida Loan Options
Get Your FHA Loan Quote
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Why Contact Emmett?
- ✓ Local Florida market expertise
- ✓ Access to 240+ wholesale lenders
- ✓ Same-day pre-qualification available
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