Blog > How Do Mortgage Rates Affect Tulsa Housing Affordability?
Mortgage rates have been the wild card of the 2020s, influencing affordability more than any single factor. For Tulsa, rates around 6–6.5% in 2025 have softened buyer competition but not stopped demand entirely.
The Math Behind Affordability
At a $275,000 median home price, a 1% increase in interest rate changes a buyer’s payment by about $175–$200/month. This shift can determine whether a family qualifies for a loan or must look in a different price bracket.
Despite higher rates, Tulsa remains far more affordable than national metros. While buyers in Austin or Denver might need $100K+ salaries to purchase a median home, Tulsa buyers can often qualify comfortably around $60K–$70K annual income.
Rate Outlook for Late 2025
Most analysts forecast gradual easing, with rates potentially dipping toward 5.75% by mid-2026. This could reignite demand and push prices upward again.
Local Strategy
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Buyers: Consider negotiating seller credits toward a temporary “2-1 buydown” to offset higher rates.
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Sellers: Highlight affordability and payment comparisons in your marketing.
Ask me about creative financing strategies I’m seeing succeed right now in Tulsa—like rate buydowns and closing cost assistance that keep buyers active in 2025.