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in Campbell, CA
Both FHA and USDA loans help buyers get in with less cash. But in Campbell, one of these programs is a much harder sell.
USDA loans require the property to sit in an eligible rural zone. Most of Campbell doesn't qualify. FHA has no location rules.
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. You need a 580 credit score for 3.5% down, or 500 with 10% down.
FHA doesn't care where the property is. In a city like Campbell, that flexibility matters. Any eligible home in any neighborhood works.
USDA loans offer zero down payment for buyers in eligible areas. The program is backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Income limits apply — your household can't exceed 115% of the area median income. The property must also pass USDA's location test.
Local decision guide
Use this comparison to weigh FHA Loans and USDA Loans through local payment fit, eligibility, documentation, and timing before choosing a path in Campbell.
Both FHA and USDA loans help buyers get in with less cash. But in Campbell, one of these programs is a much harder sell.
USDA loans require the property to sit in an eligible rural zone. Most of Campbell doesn't qualify. FHA has no location rules.
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. You need a 580 credit score for 3.5% down, or 500 with 10% down.
The biggest difference is eligibility. USDA locks out most Campbell addresses. FHA approves properties across the entire city.
On cost, USDA's annual fee runs lower than FHA's mortgage insurance premium. But you have to qualify on location first — and most won't.
For most Campbell buyers, FHA is the realistic choice. The city's suburban density rules out the vast majority of USDA-eligible addresses.
If you're buying near the outer edges of Santa Clara County and your income fits, USDA is worth checking. Otherwise, run the FHA numbers.
Most of Campbell does not meet USDA's rural zone requirements. Check the USDA property eligibility map for your specific address.
USDA's annual guarantee fee is generally lower than FHA's mortgage insurance premium. FHA MIP often stays for the loan's life.
You need at least a 580 to put 3.5% down. Scores between 500 and 579 require 10% down.
Yes. USDA caps household income at 115% of the area median. Santa Clara County limits run higher than most counties statewide.
Yes. FHA covers 1-to-4-unit properties as long as you occupy one unit as your primary residence.
FHA typically closes faster. USDA loans require an extra approval layer that can add weeks to the timeline.