How much are HOA fees?
There is no single monthly price for a homeowners association. A community with shared lawns has different bills from a building with elevators, a roof and staff. Start with the association's current assessment notice, then check what it covers.
For historical context, the U.S. Census Bureau reported a $135 median monthly condo or HOA fee in 2024. That figure combines both types of fees among households paying them. It is not a 2026 quote, an average for detached homes or a prediction for a particular property.
A published annual-dues example
Reston Association in Virginia has announced a $900 annual assessment for 2027, due March 1, 2027. Its listed payment options include a 3% credit-card surcharge and no fee for ACH or debit-card payments. These are that association's terms, not nationwide charges.
| Payment or budget item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual assessment | $900 |
| Monthly amount to set aside: $900 ÷ 12 | $75 |
| Credit-card surcharge: $900 × 3% | $27 |
| Assessment plus that surcharge | $927 |
The $75 figure is a budgeting calculation, not a monthly billing offer. Ask for the actual payment schedule and check whether another association also bills the property.
What do HOA dues cover?
The City of Boulder's buyer checklist explains that coverage can include shared amenities, utilities, exterior maintenance and insurance. The mix varies. Ask for a written list rather than assuming a higher fee covers everything inside your home.
Make a two-column budget: expenses included in the dues, and expenses you still pay yourself. Keep home repairs, personal insurance and any separately billed utilities in the second column unless the documents say otherwise. Avoid counting a covered service twice when comparing properties.
Are HOA fees part of the mortgage?
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau says dues are usually paid directly to the association, separately from the mortgage payment. Confirm your arrangement with the servicer.
FeeHQ example: a monthly ownership budget
A hypothetical $2,400 mortgage payment plus $300 in separately paid HOA dues totals $2,700 a month. Add taxes, insurance and utilities only where they are not already included in those amounts. This illustration is not a lender quote or an affordability recommendation.
What should you ask before buying?
- What are the current dues, due dates and any approved increases?
- Which services are included, and which are billed separately?
- How much money is set aside for future repairs?
- Are any special assessments approved or being discussed?
- What transfer and resale-document charges apply at closing?
Ask for the current budget and recent meeting records. A small recurring fee is only one part of the ownership cost; a known repair bill or separate closing charge can change the comparison.
Sources and review notes
- U.S. Census Bureau: 2024 condo and HOA fee data ↗
- Reston Association: announced 2027 assessment and payment charges ↗
- CFPB: HOA dues and mortgage payments ↗
- City of Boulder: HOA buyer checklist, reserves and insurance ↗
We checked these primary sources on October 29, 2026. Published provider prices are examples, not a national average or an endorsement. Availability, scope, taxes and terms may change. FeeHQ calculations are labeled illustrations. How we research fees.