When considering whether to buy a home, homeowner association (HOA) fees need to be factored into the decision. In some cities, HOA fees can cost hundreds of dollars per month, making up a significant portion of monthly housing costs. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, among homeowners with a mortgage who pay HOA fees, the median HOA fee is $290 per month and about 6% of homeowners pay them, but both the dollar amount and the proportion who pay vary widely across the country.

HOA or condominium fees usually go towards maintenance of common areas, landscaping, and upkeep of community amenities. For homeowners with a mortgage and who are part of some form of community association, these fees often exceed monthly utility payments, accounting for nearly 17% of total housing costs. In 2019, while the median monthly HOA fee was $290, the median monthly cost of utilities (including electric, gas, water, and home heating fuel) was just $250.

HOA fees vary significantly from state to state and even from city to city within a state. Locations with more expensive housing tend to have higher HOA fees. At the state level, New York and Hawaii have the most expensive HOA fees in the country with median monthly fees of $570 and $520 respectively—meaning 50% of residents pay more. A state with relatively affordable housing, Wyoming, has the lowest median HOA fee, coming in at $100 per month.

To find the states with the most expensive HOA fees, researchers at Inspection Support Network analyzed the latest homeownership and home price data from the U.S. Census Bureau and Zillow. The researchers ranked states according to the median monthly HOA fee among households with an HOA fee. In the event of a tie, the state with the larger share of homeowners with an HOA fee was ranked higher. Researchers also calculated the median HOA fee as a share of total monthly housing costs and median home prices. Only households with a mortgage were factored into the analysis.

The analysis found that in Tennessee, 3.5% of homeowners pay HOA fees, compared to the national average of 6.3%. The median monthly HOA fee in Tennessee is $150. Out of all U.S. states, Tennessee has the 5th lowest HOA fees. 

Here is a summary of the data for Tennessee:

- Median monthly HOA fee: $150
- Median HOA fee as a share of total monthly housing costs: 12.4%
- Percentage of homeowners with an HOA fee: 3.5%
- Median home price: $212,236

For reference, here are the statistics for the entire United States:

- Median monthly HOA fee: $290
- Median HOA fee as a share of total monthly housing costs: 16.6%
- Percentage of homeowners with an HOA fee: 6.3%
- Median home price: $272,446

For more information, a detailed methodology, and complete results, you can find the original report on Inspection Support Network’s website: https://www.inspectionsupport.net/resources/cities-with-the-worst-hoa-fees