USDA Rural Development loans offer $0 down financing in eligible suburban and rural areas. Much of Florida outside the major metros — including parts of Polk, Pasco, Marion, Brevard, and Volusia — qualifies.
Best for: Buyers in eligible Florida suburbs and rural areas earning under 115% of county AMI.
Program highlights
- $0 down for eligible borrowers and properties
- Below-market interest rates
- Lower mortgage insurance than FHA
- Income limits apply (115% of area median)
Eligibility requirements
- Property must be in a USDA-eligible area (check by address)
- Household income at or below 115% of area median
- Primary residence only
- Typically 640+ credit score (lender-specific)
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Frequently asked questions
Which Florida areas qualify for USDA loans?+
Most of Florida outside the I-4 corridor and South Florida metros. Eligible areas include large portions of Polk, Pasco, Hernando, Marion, Citrus, Levy, Brevard, Volusia, Putnam, and most Panhandle and North Central counties. We check eligibility by exact property address.
What is the USDA income limit in Florida?+
115% of the area median income for your county. For most Florida counties in 2026, that's about $110,650 for households of 1–4 and $146,050 for households of 5–8. High-cost counties are higher.
USDA vs FHA — which is better in Florida?+
If the property is USDA-eligible and you're under the income limit, USDA almost always wins — $0 down, lower MI, and lower rates. FHA wins when the property is in a USDA-ineligible metro area or your income exceeds the USDA limit.
Important disclosures
Information shown is general and educational. Program availability, terms, and eligibility are subject to change without notice and are determined by program administrators and participating lenders. This page does not constitute a commitment to lend.
See what Florida programs you may qualify for.
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