Top Menu Widget — DreamHomeToday.net
What Is AMI? Area Median Income Explained | DreamHomeToday.net
DPA Eligibility

What Is AMI?
Area Median Income Explained

AMI is the single most important number in determining your eligibility for down payment assistance. Here's exactly what it means and how to use it.

AMI = Area Median Income

Area Median Income (AMI) is the midpoint household income for a given metro area, calculated annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Exactly half of all households earn above the AMI, and half earn below it.

For the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell MSA, HUD publishes AMI limits every year. The 2024 AMI for a family of 4 in Metro Atlanta is approximately $115,100. Every household size gets its own adjusted figure.

Why it matters for DPA: Down payment assistance programs set eligibility thresholds as a percentage of AMI — for example, "80% AMI" or "120% AMI." To qualify, your household's gross income must fall at or below the program's stated percentage. Most Atlanta DPA programs require buyers to earn between 80%–120% of AMI.

AMI limits are adjusted for household size — a 2-person household has a lower limit than a 5-person household, reflecting real-world cost differences. Always use the limit for your actual household size when checking eligibility.

Calculate Your AMI Percentage

Enter your household size and gross annual income to instantly see what percentage of AMI you are — and which DPA programs you likely qualify for.

$

Your AMI Percentage

of Metro Atlanta AMI

2024 Metro Atlanta AMI Limits by Household Size

Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA HUD Metro FMR Area (FY2024). Confirm current limits with your lender — HUD updates figures each spring.

Household Size 50% AMI 80% AMI 100% AMI 120% AMI 140% AMI
1 Person$40,300$64,500$80,600$96,720$112,840
2 People$46,050$73,700$92,100$110,520$128,940
3 People$51,800$82,900$103,600$124,320$145,040
4 People$57,550$92,050$115,100$138,120$161,140
5 People$62,150$99,450$124,300$149,160$174,020
6 People$66,750$106,800$133,500$160,200$186,900
7 People$71,350$114,150$142,700$171,240$199,780
8 People$75,950$121,500$151,900$182,280$212,660
50% Very Low Income 80% Low Income (most programs) 100% Median Income 120%+ Moderate Income

Source: HUD FY2024 Income Limits. Figures rounded. Verify current limits at huduser.gov or with your lender.

Atlanta DPA Programs & Their AMI Requirements

Each program targets a specific income band. Use this table alongside the calculator above to see which programs apply to your household.

ProgramAmountAMI LimitNotes
Invest Atlanta — Various ProgramsUp to $20,000≤ 80% AMICity of Atlanta properties only. Multiple product types.
Atlanta Housing AuthorityUp to $25,000≤ 80% AMIParticipating lender required. 10-year forgiveness.
Fulton County DPAUp to $15,000≤ 80% AMIFulton County (outside Atlanta city limits). 5-year forgiveness.
FHLB — Federal Home Loan BankUp to $15,000≤ 80% AMIThrough participating member banks. 5-year retention period.
ANDP 1st Gen / 1st Time Buyer$12,000≤ 100% AMIMust not have owned a home in the past 3 years.
Georgia DreamUp to $12,500Statewide LimitStatewide income and purchase price limits apply. Deferred second mortgage.
ANDP Veteran DPA$15,000≤ 120% AMIActive duty, veterans, surviving spouses. ANDP-designated properties.
ANDP New Market ProgramUp to $30,000≤ 120% AMINew construction only. Specific ANDP-designated communities.

Not Sure Where You Fall?

Our team can run a full DPA eligibility check for your specific household size, income, and target property in minutes — at no cost to you.

Get Your Free DPA Eligibility Check
Footer Widget (White) – DreamHomeToday.net