What is the ideal debt-to-income ratio according to financial experts?

The ideal debt-to-income ratio according to financial experts is typically considered to be less than 36%. This ratio measures the percentage of an individual's monthly income that goes toward servicing debt, such as mortgages, car loans, and credit card payments. A lower ratio indicates that a person is financially healthier and is less likely to face challenges meeting their obligations.

Maintaining a debt-to-income ratio under 36% suggests that a significant portion of a person’s income is available for savings, investments, and discretionary spending, which can lead to a more secure financial future. It is a key indicator that lenders use to assess an individual's ability to manage monthly payments and repay borrowed funds, influencing decisions on loan approvals and interest rates.