USDA home loans in Arizona: eligible areas and 2026 income limits

Key facts at a glance

Is my Arizona address USDA eligible?

You have to check the exact address on USDA's property eligibility map. In Pinal County, a lot of addresses outside the bigger city centers qualify. When I checked Florence in October 2026, homes in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, Magma Ranch, and near downtown all came back eligible. Parts of the Casa Grande area showed as ineligible, so don't assume a whole city qualifies.

Most of Maricopa County's built-up suburbs aren't eligible, but some outlying areas may be. Check before you write an offer. Read: Is Florence, AZ USDA eligible?

What are the USDA income limits in Pinal and Maricopa County?

Both counties are in the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler metro. For USDA-backed loans, the limits are $129,250 for a household of 1 to 4 people and $170,650 for 5 to 8 people. USDA counts the income of everyone who lives in the home, then allows some deductions, like for children and childcare. These limits usually change once a year.

Who is a USDA loan a good fit for?

• Buyers who want to keep more cash in the bank
• Households under the income limit
• Buyers shopping in smaller Pinal County communities, where eligible addresses are common (check each one)
• New construction buyers in eligible areas

What does a USDA loan cost?

USDA loans have an upfront guarantee fee, which can be added to the loan, and an annual fee paid monthly. They're often lower than FHA mortgage insurance. I'll show you the full cost next to FHA and conventional so you can compare.

Can USDA eligibility change?

Yes. USDA reviews its maps, mostly after new census data. When an area is about to lose eligibility, USDA posts a notice first. That's why I check every address at the time you're buying.

Subject to eligibility, credit approval, and program guidelines. Programs can change.