Area median income
Also called AMI
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Definition
Area median income, or AMI, is a HUD income benchmark that describes typical household income in a local area. It is a data measure, not a loan product and not the same as low-to-moderate income.
In plain English
Housing and mortgage programs often ask how a household’s income compares with other households nearby. AMI is the official local income yardstick used for that comparison. The dollar figures change by place and year. This page names the measure. It does not publish current limits.
Technical definition
HUD’s official income-limits series is the PRIMARY identity for AMI. Program eligibility that uses AMI is a later application of the measure, not the definition.
Why it matters
First-time-buyer and assistance conversations often mention AMI. Readers need the benchmark kept distinct from the LMI classification used in CRA and HMDA work.
Related terms
Sources reviewed
Income Limits
Source reviewedSeptember 6, 2026
Important note
Do not publish current dollar limits.
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