Borrowing Power on a $120,000 Salary — 2026

General information only — not financial advice. This content is intended as educational guidance. Consult a qualified financial adviser, mortgage broker, or legal professional before making financial decisions. See our full disclaimer.

On a $120,000 gross salary with minimal debts and average expenses, your estimated borrowing power is approximately $595,000–$710,000. This positions you to buy in most Australian property markets, including mid-ring suburbs of Sydney when combined with a solid deposit.

Use our Borrowing Power Calculator for a personalised estimate based on your income, debts, and expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I borrow $700K on $120K salary?

Yes, it's possible with minimal debts and low declared expenses. Some lenders may approve up to $710K for a clean application. With a car loan or dependants, expect $595K–$650K as a more realistic ceiling.

How much does HECS affect borrowing on $120K?

At $120,000, HECS repayments are approximately $6,000/year ($500/month). This reduces your effective net income and borrowing capacity by roughly $55,000–$65,000. If close to paying off HECS, the timing of your application matters.

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