2026 Area Median Income (AMI) Limits

Each year, the Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R) of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets income limits used to determine eligibility for affordable housing programs. These limits are based on Area Median Income (AMI), which reflects income levels within a specific region. On May 1, 2026, HUD released its annual update to these income limits. Click HERE to read more about HUD's methodology on the agency's website. 

Because incomes and the cost of living vary across the country, AMI is calculated regionally. Household income is categorized as a percentage of the region’s AMI—such as 30%, 50%, or 80% AMI—and income limits vary based on household size. These categories are commonly used to determine eligibility for affordable housing opportunities and programs.

Newton is part of the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area. The current income limits for this region are available in the table below or by clicking here.

2026 Income Limits

2026 Maximum Rents for Affordable Units

Per 24 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) Part 92.252, rent in an affordable unit cannot exceed more than 30% of that affordable unit's AMI designation. Maximum rents for affordable units in Newton are available in the table below or clicking here. 

For example, a household living in an "affordable" two-bedroom unit classified as a 50% AMI unit will not pay more than $1,928.75 per month in rent.

NOTE: Rent maximums are calculated with the assumption that a household of three will live in a a two-bedroom unit. So, to calculate the rent maximum for a two-bedroom, 50% AMI unit, find thirty percent of $77,150, the income maximum for a household of three at 50% of AMI. Then, divide that number by twelve to get the rent maximum.

To calculate the rent maximum for a one-bedroom unit, use the income maximum for a household of two. To calculate the rent maximum for a three-bedroom unit, use the income maximum for a household of four, and so on.