Oregon's suitability index of 69 out of 100 places it in the "Standard HECM fits, with cost factors to weigh" band — an informational read on how the standard FHA-insured HECM fits a typical homeowner here, not a recommendation for any individual.
Two factors carry the score in roughly equal measure: typical home values sit in the range where the FHA-insured HECM draws against most of the equity, and a large share of residents are 65 or older, the age band a HECM is built for.
Pulling the other way, few or no HUD-approved HECM counseling agencies are based in the state, which is what holds the composite below the top band.
The four inputs behind Oregon’s score
The composite is a weighted blend of four normalized factors, each shown below on a 0–1 scale where a higher value means a closer fit for the standard HECM. The raw public data each factor draws from is listed alongside it.
| Factor | Weight | Normalized (0–1) | State data |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior population share | 30% | 0.68 | 18.6% of residents are 65 or older |
| Home value against the HECM cap | 30% | 0.76 | median home value $454,200 |
| State tax on the mortgage instrument | 20% | 1.00 | no state recording or transfer tax on the mortgage |
| HUD counselor access | 20% | 0.27 | 5 in-state HUD-approved HECM counseling agencies |
Composite: 69/100. Senior share and home values are 2023 Census ACS 5-Year estimates; the tax factor models a representative $400,000 HECM; counselor counts come from the HUD Housing Counselor roster. Estimatehow this number is calculated
Run the numbers for a Oregon home
The suitability index works from state-level averages. To estimate a principal limit against a specific age and home value, use the calculator — the result is an estimate of what the federal program would support, not a loan offer.
- Net at closing
- $230,350 after upfront costs
- PLF applied
- 0.389 at 6.6% expected rate
- Home value used
- $650,000
- Upfront costs
- $22,500 (orig + 2% MIP + closing)
A HECM removes the required monthly mortgage payment, but the borrower still has to pay property taxes and homeowners insurance, keep the home maintained, and live in it as a primary residence. The estimate above is what the program would support, not a promise of cash. Estimatehow this number is calculated
Where this score comes from
Oregon’s score is computed from public data only — no lender quotes and no individual financials. The methodology page documents the four inputs, the exact formula, the federal data sources, and what the index deliberately leaves out. Read the full methodology
To compare Oregon against the other 50 jurisdictions, see the full suitability index. For the federal program mechanics, see the calculator methodology and the reverse mortgage requirements guide.