USDA Loans in Washington County, Maine
Nearly every town in Washington County qualifies for USDA $0 down financing. Here's your complete guide to USDA Rural Development loans in Washington County for 2026 — eligible towns, income limits, and how to qualify.
About Washington County
The easternmost county in the United States — Eastport and Lubec are the first communities to see the sunrise. Known for wild blueberries, working waterfronts, and spectacular coastal scenery.
Calais is on the Canadian border; Machias is home to the University of Maine at Machias. Most buyers work locally.
USDA eligibility in Washington County
Fully USDA-eligible. Every town in Washington County qualifies.
Notable towns that commonly qualify
Calais, Machias, Eastport, Lubec, Jonesport, Milbridge, Cherryfield, Columbia Falls, Harrington, Cutler.
2026 USDA income limits — Washington County
Your total household income must be at or below these limits to qualify for a USDA Guaranteed loan:
| Household Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1–4 people | $119,850 |
| 5–8 people | $158,250 |
Based on 2025–2026 USDA Rural Development data. Limits are reviewed annually. USDA income limits count all adults in the household, not just applicants on the loan. Allowed deductions for dependents, childcare, and medical expenses can significantly lower your qualifying income. See the full income limits guide.
Home prices in Washington County
Home prices are among the most affordable in coastal Maine. USDA $0 down is especially impactful here because low prices mean the full monthly housing cost stays well under typical rental rates.
What a USDA loan looks like in Washington County
- $0 down payment — 100% financing on an eligible Washington County home
- 0.35% annual mortgage insurance — less than half of FHA's 0.85%
- Seller concessions up to 6% — closing costs can often be covered entirely by the seller in this market
- Credit score 620+ typically required; some lenders flex to 580 with compensating factors
- Primary residence only — no investment properties or second homes
Is your Washington County target property eligible?
I'll run your specific address through the USDA eligibility check and walk you through what a $0 down loan looks like on that house.
Check My Eligibility →Frequently asked questions
Is my town in Washington County USDA-eligible?
Most of Washington County qualifies. The definitive check is USDA's official map at eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov — enter the specific property address. Or send me the address and I'll check for you.
What's the difference between USDA and FHA in Washington County?
USDA beats FHA on monthly cost almost every time when both are available — no down payment (vs. 3.5%) and much lower mortgage insurance. See the full USDA vs. FHA comparison.
How long does a USDA loan take to close in Washington County?
Typically 30–45 days from signed purchase agreement. Slightly longer than FHA or conventional because USDA adds its own final approval step after the lender approves the file.