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Today’s average mortgage rates


Today’s average mortgage rates on Apr. 08, 2024, compared with one week ago. We use rate data collected by Bankrate as reported by lenders across the US.

Current mortgage rates

If you’re in the market for a home, here are today’s mortgage rates compared to last week’s.

Product Rate Last week Change
30-year fixed 6.91% 6.91% -0.00
15-year fixed 6.36% 6.42% -0.06
10-year fixed 6.27% 6.38% -0.10
5/1 ARM 6.61% 6.63% -0.02
30-year jumbo mortgage rate 7.00% 7.02% -0.02
30-year mortgage refinance rate 6.96% 6.92% +0.04

Average rates offered by lenders nationwide as of April 3, 2024. We use rates collected by Bankrate to track daily mortgage rate trends.

Mortgage rates change every day. Experts recommend shopping around to make sure you’re getting the lowest rate. By entering your information below, you can get a custom quote from one of CNET’s partner lenders.

About these rates: Like CNET, Bankrate is owned by Red Ventures. This tool features partner rates from lenders that you can use when comparing multiple mortgage rates.

Mortgage rate news

Over the last few years, high inflation and the Federal Reserve’s aggressive interest rate hikes pushed up mortgage rates from their record lows around the pandemic. Since last summer, the Fed has consistently kept the federal funds rate at 5.25% to 5.5%. Though the central bank doesn’t directly set the rates for mortgages, a high federal funds rate makes borrowing more expensive, including for home loans.

Mortgage rates change daily, but average rates have been moving between 6.5% and 7.5% since late last fall. Today’s homebuyers have less room in their budget to afford the cost of a home due to elevated mortgage rates and steep home prices. Limited housing inventory and low wage growth are also contributing to the affordability crisis and keeping mortgage demand down.

Mortgage predictions for 2024

Mortgage forecasters base their projections on different data, but most housing market experts predict rates will move toward 6% by the end of 2024. Ultimately, a more affordable mortgage market will depend on how quickly the Fed begins cutting interest rates. Most economists predict that the Fed will start lowering interest rates later this summer.

Since mortgage rates fluctuate for many reasons — supply, demand, inflation, monetary policy and jobs data — homebuyers won’t see lower rates overnight, and it’s unlikely they’ll find rates in the 2% range again.

“We are expecting mortgage rates to fall to around 6.5% by the end of this year, but there’s still a lot of volatility I think we might see,” said Daryl Fairweather, chief economist at Redfin.

Every month brings a new set of inflation and labor data that can change how investors and the market respond and what direction mortgage rates go, said Odeta Kushi, deputy chief economist at First American Financial Corporation. “Ongoing inflation deceleration, a slowing economy and even geopolitical uncertainty can contribute to lower mortgage rates. On the other hand, data that signals upside risk to inflation may result in higher rates,” Kushi said.

Here’s a look at where some major housing authorities expect average mortgage rates to land.

Mortgage terms and types

When picking a mortgage, consider the loan term, or payment schedule. The most common mortgage terms are 15 and 30 years, although 10-, 20- and 40-year mortgages also exist. You’ll also need to choose between a fixed-rate mortgage, where the interest rate is set for the duration of the loan, and an adjustable-rate mortgage. With an adjustable-rate mortgage, the interest rate is only fixed for a certain amount of time (commonly five, seven or 10 years), after which the rate adjusts annually based on the market’s current interest rate. Fixed-rate mortgages offer more stability and are a better option if you plan to live in a home in the long term, but adjustable-rate mortgages may offer lower interest rates upfront.

30-year fixed-rate mortgages

The average interest rate for a standard 30-year fixed mortgage is 6.91%, which is a decline of 0 basis point compared to one week ago. (A basis point is equivalent to 0.01%.) A 30-year fixed mortgage is the most common loan term. It will often have a higher interest rate than a 15-year mortgage, but you’ll have a lower monthly payment.

15-year fixed-rate mortgages

The average rate for a 15-year, fixed mortgage is 6.36%, which is a decrease of 6 basis points from seven days ago. Though you’ll have a bigger monthly payment than a 30-year fixed mortgage, a 15-year loan usually comes with a lower interest rate, allowing you to pay less interest in the long run and pay off your mortgage sooner.

5/1 adjustable-rate mortgages

A 5/1 ARM has an average rate of 6.61%, a decrease of 2 basis points compared to a week ago. You’ll typically get a lower introductory interest rate with a 5/1 ARM in the first five years of the mortgage. But you could pay more after that period, depending on how the rate adjusts annually. If you plan to sell or refinance your house within five years, an ARM could be a good option.

What factors affect mortgage rates?

While it’s important to monitor mortgage rates if you’re shopping for a home, remember that no one has a crystal ball. It’s impossible to time the mortgage market, and rates will always have some level of volatility because so many factors are at play.

“Mortgage rates tend to follow long-date Treasury yields, a function of current inflation and economic growth as well as expectations about future economic conditions,” says Orphe Divounguy, senior macroeconomist at Zillow Home Loans.

Here are the factors that influence the average rates on home loans.

  • Federal Reserve monetary policy: The nation’s central bank doesn’t set interest rates, but when it adjusts the federal funds rate, mortgages tend to go in the same direction.
  • Inflation: Mortgage rates tend to increase during high inflation. Lenders usually set higher interest rates on loans to compensate for the loss of purchasing power.
  • The bond market: Mortgage lenders often use long-term bond yields, like the 10-Year Treasury, as a benchmark to set interest rates on home loans. When yields rise, mortgage rates typically increase.
  • Geopolitical events: World events, such as elections, pandemics or economic crises, can also affect home loan rates, particularly when global financial markets face uncertainty.
  • Other economic factors: The bond market, employment data, investor confidence and housing market trends, such as supply and demand, can also affect the direction of mortgage rates.

Calculate your monthly mortgage payment

Getting a mortgage should always depend on your financial situation and long-term goals. The most important thing is to make a budget and try to stay within your means. CNET’s mortgage calculator below can help homebuyers prepare for monthly mortgage payments.

How to find the best mortgage rates

Though mortgage rates and home prices are high, the housing market won’t be unaffordable forever. It’s always a good time to save for a down payment and improve your credit score to help you secure a competitive mortgage rate when the time is right.

  1. Save for a bigger down payment: Though a 20% down payment isn’t required, a larger upfront payment means taking out a smaller mortgage, which will help you save in interest.
  2. Boost your credit score: You can qualify for a conventional mortgage with a 620 credit score, but a higher score of at least 740 will get you better rates.
  3. Pay off debt: Experts recommend a debt-to-income ratio of 36% or less to help you qualify for the best rates. Not carrying other debt will put you in a better position to handle your monthly payments.
  4. Research loans and assistance: Government-sponsored loans have more flexible borrowing requirements than conventional loans. Some government-sponsored or private programs can also help with your down payment and closing costs.
  5. Shop around for lenders: Researching and comparing multiple loan offers from different lenders can help you secure the lowest mortgage rate for your situation.

Source: cnet.com

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Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate mortgages to write unbiased product reviews.

Mortgage rates are down significantly this week. Average 30-year mortgage rates have dropped nearly 30 basis points from a week ago, according to Zillow data. And they could drop further this year.

As inflation slows and the economy comes into better balance, mortgage rates are expected to go down. Inflation has been a bit stickier than expected over the last few months, but Federal Reserve officials have indicated that they still believe it will continue to slow and enable them to start lowering the federal funds rate this year. This should take a lot of upward pressure off of mortgage rates and allow them to decrease.

Right now, investors are pricing in a Fed cut in June, according to the CME FedWatch Tool. So we could see mortgage rates start trending down more substantially in just a few months.

Current Mortgage Rates

Mortgage type Average rate today
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mortgage rates on Zillow

Real Estate on Zillow

Current Refinance Rates

Mortgage type Average rate today
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mortgage rates on Zillow

Real Estate on Zillow

Mortgage Calculator

Use our free mortgage calculator to see how today’s mortgage rates would impact your monthly payments. By plugging in different rates and term lengths, you’ll also understand how much you’ll pay over the entire length of your mortgage.

Mortgage Calculator

$1,161
Your estimated monthly payment

Total paid$418,177
Principal paid$275,520
Interest paid$42,657
  • Paying a 25% higher down payment would save you $8,916.08 on interest charges
  • Lowering the interest rate by 1% would save you $51,562.03
  • Paying an additional $500 each month would reduce the loan length by 146 months

Click “More details” for tips on how to save money on your mortgage in the long run.

Mortgage Rates for Buying a Home

30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Fall (-0.27%)

The current average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.32%, down 27 points from where it was this time last week, according to Zillow data. This rate is also down compared to a month ago, when it was 6.59%. 

At 6.32%, you’ll pay $620 monthly toward principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow.

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is the most common type of home loan. With this type of mortgage, you’ll pay back what you borrowed over 30 years, and your interest rate won’t change for the life of the loan.

20-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Go Down (-0.24%)

The average 20-year fixed mortgage rate is 24 points down from where it was last week, and is sitting at 5.99%. This time last month, the rate was 6.30%.

With a 5.99% rate on a 20-year term, your monthly payment will be $716 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed.

A 20-year term isn’t as common as a 30-year or 15-year term, but plenty of mortgage lenders still offer this option.

15-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Decrease  (-0.33%)

The average 15-year mortgage rate is 5.64%, down from last week. It’s also down compared to this time last month, when it was 5.98%.

With a 5.64% rate on a 15-year term, you’ll pay $825 each month toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed.

If you want the predictability that comes with a fixed rate but are looking to spend less on interest over the life of your loan, a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage might be a good fit for you. Because these terms are shorter and have lower rates than 30-year fixed-rate mortgages, you could potentially save tens of thousands of dollars in interest. However, you’ll have a higher monthly payment than you would with a longer term.

7/1 ARM Rates Plunge (-0.60%)

The 7/1 adjustable mortgage rate is down 60 basis points from a week ago, currently at 6.18%. It’s also down from a month ago, when it was at 6.47%. 

At 6.18%, your monthly payment would be $611 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed — but only for the first seven years. After that, your payment would increase or decrease annually depending on the new rate.

5/1 ARM Rates Drop Nearly Half a Percentage Point (-0.49%)

The average 5/1 ARM rate is 6.51%, a 49-point decrease from last week. It’s down from where it was a month ago, when it was 6.74%.

Here’s how a 6.51% rate would affect you for the first five years: You’d pay $633 per month toward principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow.

30-year FHA Rates Nearly Flat (+0.03%)

The average 30-year FHA interest rate is 5.65% today, which is just 3 basis points up from last week. This rate was 6.11% a month ago.

At 5.65%, you would pay $577 monthly toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed.

FHA mortgages are good choices if you don’t qualify for a conforming mortgage. You’ll need a 3.5% down payment and 580 credit score to qualify.

30-year VA Rates Lower (-0.38%)

The current VA mortgage rate is 5.54%, 38 basis points lower than this time last week. This rate was 5.92% a month ago.

With a 5.54% rate, your monthly payment would be $570 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow.

Mortgage Refinance Rates

30-Year Fixed Refinance Rates Increase (+0.69%)

The average 30-year refinance rate is 7.69%, 69 basis points higher than last week. It’s nearly flat compared to a month ago, when it was 7.65%.

Here’s how a 7.69% rate would affect your monthly payments: You’d pay $712 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed.

Refinancing into a 30-year term can land you lower monthly payments, but you’ll ultimately pay more by refinancing into a longer term.

20-Year Fixed Refinance Rates Up Over a Full Percentage Point (+1.20%)

The current 20-year fixed refinance rate is 7.66%, which is 120 basis points up compared to a week ago. This rate was 6.42% this time last month.

A 7.66% rate on a 20-year term will result in a $815 monthly payment toward principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow.

15-Year Fixed Refinance Rates Go Up (+0.58%)

The average 15-year fixed refinance rate is 6.92%, which is more than half a percentage point higher compared to last week. It’s down just a little bit compared to this time a month ago, when it was at 6.99%.

A 6.92% rate on a 15-year term means you’ll pay $894 each month toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed.

Refinancing into a 15-year term can save you money in the long run, because you’ll get a lower rate and pay off your mortgage faster than you would with a 30-year term. But it could result in higher monthly payments.

7/1 ARM Refinance Rates Tick Down (-0.32%)

The average 7/1 ARM refinance rate is 6.83%, down 32 points from where it was last week. It’s up a bit from a month ago, when it was 6.69%.

Refinancing into a 7/1 ARM with a 6.83% rate means your monthly payment toward principal and interest will be $654 for every $100,000 you borrow. This will be the payment for the first seven years, then your rate will change annually unless you refinance again.

5/1 ARM Refinance Rates Fall Dramatically (-1.11%)

The 5/1 ARM refinance rate is 6.44%, which is significantly lower than it was this time last week. It’s up a bit compared to this time last month, when it was 6.34%.

A 6.44% rate will result in a monthly payment of $628 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 borrowed. You’ll pay this amount for the first five years of your new mortgage.

30-Year FHA Refinance Rates Drop a Bit (-0.10%)

The 30-year FHA refinance rate is 5.52%, which is 10 points lower than last week. This rate was 5.61% this time last month.

A 5.52% refinance rate would lead to a $569 monthly payment toward the principal and interest per $100,000 borrowed.

30-Year VA Refinance Rates Decrease (-0.19%)

The average 30-year VA refinance rate is 5.56%, which is down compared to where it was was last week. This rate was 5.78% a month ago.

At 5.56%, your new monthly payment would be $572 toward principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow.

Are Mortgage Rates Going Down?

Mortgage rates started ticking up from historic lows in the second half of 2021 and increased over three percentage points in 2022. Mortgage rates also rose dramatically in 2023, though they started trending back down toward the end of the year. Though rates have been somewhat elevated recently, they should go down by the end of 2024. 

For homeowners looking to leverage their home’s value to cover a big purchase — such as a home renovation — a home equity line of credit (HELOC) may be a good option while we wait for mortgage rates to ease further. Check out some of our best HELOC lenders to start your search for the right loan for you.

A HELOC is a line of credit that lets you borrow against the equity in your home. It works similarly to a credit card in that you borrow what you need rather than getting the full amount you’re borrowing in a lump sum. It also lets you tap into the money you have in your home without replacing your entire mortgage, like you’d do with a cash-out refinance.

Current HELOC rates are relatively low compared to other loan options, including credit cards and personal loans. 

Molly Grace

Mortgage Reporter

Source: businessinsider.com

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By Aarthi Swaminathan

The U.S. 15-year mortgage rate is at the lowest level in two months, industry group says

The numbers: The U.S. housing market is feeling a chill once again as home buyers pull back on applying for mortgages with rates staying near 7%.

Yet some buyers are finding rates in the low 6% range by turning to 15-year fixed-rate mortgages instead of the traditional 30-year loan.

Nevertheless, weakening demand overall pushed the market composite index – a measure of mortgage application volume – down in the last week, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) on Wednesday.

The market index fell 0.6% to 195.6 for the week ending March 29 from a week ago. A year ago, the index stood at 217.9.

Key details: The purchase index – which measures mortgage applications for the purchase of a home – fell 0.1% from a week ago.

The refinance index fell 1.6%.

The average contract rate for the 30-year mortgage for homes sold for $766,550 or less was 6.91% for the week ending March 29. That’s down from 6.93% from the week before.

The rate for jumbo loans, or the 30-year mortgage for homes sold for over $766,550, was 7.06%, down from 7.14% a week ago.

The average rate for a 30-year mortgage backed by the Federal Housing Administration was 6.74%, down from 6.75% a week ago.

The 15-year fell to 6.35% from 6.46% from the previous week. The 15-year fixed was at the lowest level in two months, the MBA said.

The rate for adjustable-rate mortgages was up to 6.37%, from 6.27% last week.

The big picture: Home buyers are putting off buying a home due to elevated mortgage rates straining how much they can afford.

Even though for-sale inventory has shown signs of rising in recent weeks, demand isn’t picking up, which means that sales activity will not pick up as quickly.

To be sure, the data does not fully capture buyer demand as some are buying homes without mortgages. A third of home buyers paid for their home purchases with cash in February, as real-estate brokerage Redfin notes.

What the MBA said: “Elevated mortgage rates continued to weigh down on home buying,” Joel Kan, vice president and deputy chief economist at the MBA, said in a statement. “Purchase applications were unchanged overall, although [Federal Housing Administration] purchases did pick up slightly over the week.”

-Aarthi Swaminathan

This content was created by MarketWatch, which is operated by Dow Jones & Co. MarketWatch is published independently from Dow Jones Newswires and The Wall Street Journal.

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04-03-24 0701ET

Copyright (c) 2024 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

Source: morningstar.com

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To qualify for the best mortgage rates, make sure your credit is in good standing before you apply.

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Are you in the market for a new home? Are you considering refinancing your current home? In either case, you’ve likely faced some hurdles. After all, there’s a limited number of homes available on the market today and that fact in combination with high mortgage rates can make it difficult to find affordable options. However, there are still smart buying options available – especially if you have a strong credit score and overall application. 

Of course, if you’re in the market for a new home or considering refinancing your home, it’s important to know what mortgage rates you can expect to see. We’ve compiled a list of today’s average mortgage and refinance interest rates below. 

Start here and compare the best mortgage rates you can qualify for today.

What are today’s mortgage and mortgage refinance rates?

The following rates are current as of April 1, 2024, according to national averages collected by Bankrate. While these are averages based on national data, actual rates that you can qualify for may vary depending on your location, credit, loan type and other factors.

Average mortgage rates today:

  • 15-year mortgage: 6.34%
  • 30-year mortgage: 6.88%

Average refinance rates today:

  • 15-year refinance: 6.38%
  • 30-year refinance: 6.88% 

Find the best mortgage rates you can qualify for right now!

How to get a great mortgage or refinance rate today

Even though interest rates are higher than they were a few years ago, both new homebuyers and current homeowners looking to refinance can secure a good rate today. Plus, borrowers may soon see some relief if the Fed decides to pause rate hikes following its July rate increase.

“Over the past two years, as the Fed has increased interest rates, borrowing has become more expensive,” says Taylor Jessee, CFP, founder of Impact Financial. “For example, in 2020 you could lock in a mortgage rate between 2-3% easily. Nowadays mortgage rates are closer to 6-7%. If the Fed stops raising rates then I’d anticipate mortgage rates to also stop going up. That’s good news for borrowers.”

While the macro rate environment may be moving in your favor, there are also things you can do to improve your chances of qualifying for a great rate.

Perhaps most importantly, start by strengthening your credit profile. “The best rates go to borrowers with credit scores in the mid- to high-700s or above,” the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s website states. “These borrowers typically also have the most choices available to them.” 

Pay your bills in full and on time each month, look for any errors on your credit report and avoid applying for other loans or credit cards too close to your mortgage or refinance application. 

You should also shop around and compare different lenders. If you’re refinancing, specifically, don’t hesitate to look beyond your current mortgage lender. You may qualify for different rates and terms, which can make a big difference in what you pay over the lifetime of the loan.

Find the best mortgage refinance rates that you can qualify for here now.

What to look for in a mortgage or refinance loan

One of the first things you may want to consider when choosing a mortgage loan or refinancing is your preferred loan term. Shorter terms (15-year loans) generally offer better interest rates than longer terms (30-year). 

Fees are another detail to factor into your overall payment. These can vary depending on your loan type and the closing costs charged by your lender. Both your fees and interest rate can affect your monthly payment. Before you take on any new loan, calculate your monthly payment to make sure you can afford it.

If you’re refinancing, make sure you compare all of the details of the new loan you’re approved for against your existing mortgage. Even if you get a better rate, other factors (like closing costs) could ultimately end up costing you more in the long run. 

And don’t forget to lock in your mortgage rate after you’ve made your decision, so you can rest assured that it won’t increase again before you actually close on your home.

The bottom line

While mortgage rates are higher than they were a few years ago, both new homebuyers and existing homeowners who want to refinance still have plenty of good options. Some of the top rates for either mortgage type are still as low as 6% today, but it’s still important to compare a few different lenders and see what the best rates and loan terms are that you can qualify for before locking in a rate. Also, make sure to calculate your overall cost and payments so you’re prepared to start paying down your new loan.

Ready to take on a new mortgage? Explore the best rates you can get today here!

Source: cbsnews.com

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Average mortgage rates were mostly down compared to a week ago, according to rate data compiled by Bankrate. Rates for 30-year fixed, 15-year fixed and jumbo loans decreased, while rates for ARM loans rose.

While mortgage rates are still on track to gradually come down this year, the path might be bumpy. Lenders price mortgages based on many variables, but overall, fixed mortgage rates follow the 10-year Treasury yield, which moves as investor appetite fluctuates with the state of the economy and Federal Reserve decisions.

Although the Fed still expects to cut rates 2024, policymakers opted not to at the central bank’s latest meeting, thanks in part to inflation that hasn’t yet returned to the Fed’s 2 percent target.

“The Fed is not in a hurry to start cutting interest rates as the progress toward 2 percent inflation has encountered some turbulence,” says Greg McBride, CFA, chief financial analyst for Bankrate.

The next opportunity for a Fed cut comes in May, the height of the spring homebuying season.

Whether mortgage rates move up or down, though, it’s tough to time the market. Often, the decision to buy a home comes down to needs. Depending on your situation, it might make sense to take a higher rate now and hope to refinance later — buying a home at today’s prices rather than a higher price in the future, while building equity that much sooner.

Rates as of March 28, 2024.

The rates listed here are Bankrate’s overnight average rates and are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates displayed within the site may vary. This story has been reviewed by Suzanne De Vita. All rate data accurate as of Thursday, March 28th, 2024 at 7:30 a.m.

30-year mortgage trends down, -0.05%

Today’s average 30-year fixed-mortgage rate is 6.91 percent, a decrease of 5 basis points since the same time last week. This time a month ago, the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage was higher, at 7.12 percent.

At the current average rate, you’ll pay principal and interest of $659.27 for every $100,000 you borrow. That’s a decline of $3.35 from last week.

Standard lending practices defer to the 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage as the go-to for most borrowers because it allows the borrower to scatter loan payments out over 30 years, keeping their monthly payment lower.

15-year mortgage rate moves down, -0.07%

The average rate you’ll pay for a 15-year fixed mortgage is 6.42 percent, down 7 basis points from a week ago.

Monthly payments on a 15-year fixed mortgage at that rate will cost approximately $867 per $100,000 borrowed. That may squeeze your monthly budget than a 30-year mortgage would, but it comes with some big advantages: You’ll come out several thousand dollars ahead over the life of the loan in total interest paid and build equity much more quickly.

5/1 ARM trends upward, +0.12%

The average rate on a 5/1 ARM is 6.63 percent, rising 12 basis points over the last 7 days.

Adjustable-rate mortgages, or ARMs, are mortgage terms that come with a floating interest rate. In other words, the interest rate will change at regular intervals, unlike fixed-rate mortgages. These types of loans are best for people who expect to refinance or sell before the first or second adjustment. Rates could be substantially higher when the loan first adjusts, and thereafter.

While borrowers shunned ARMs during the pandemic days of super-low rates, this type of loan has made a comeback as mortgage rates have risen.

Monthly payments on a 5/1 ARM at 6.63 percent would cost about $641 for each $100,000 borrowed over the initial five years, but could increase by hundreds of dollars afterward, depending on the loan’s terms.

Jumbo mortgage retreats, -0.04%

Today’s average rate for jumbo mortgages is 7.02 percent, a decrease of 4 basis points over the last seven days. This time a month ago, jumbo mortgages’ average rate was greater than 7.02 at 7.13 percent.

At the average rate today for a jumbo loan, you’ll pay a combined $666.65 per month in principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow. That’s down $2.69 from what it would have been last week.

Refinance rates

30-year mortgage refinance rate moves down, -0.05%

The average 30-year fixed-refinance rate is 6.92 percent, down 5 basis points over the last week. A month ago, the average rate on a 30-year fixed refinance was higher at 7.10 percent.

At the current average rate, you’ll pay $659.94 per month in principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow. Compared with last week, that’s $3.35 lower.

Where are mortgage rates going?

With inflation still above the Fed’s 2 percent goal and the job market holding strong, policymakers refrained from cutting rates at the central bank’s latest meeting. That could change later this year, as the Fed still expects to slash rates three times in 2024.

Keep in mind: The rates on 30-year mortgages mostly follow the 10-year Treasury, which shifts continuously as economic conditions dictate, while the cost of variable-rate home loans mirror the Fed’s moves.

These broader factors influence overall rate movement. As a borrower, you could be quoted a higher or lower rate compared to the trend.

What today’s rates mean for your mortgage

While mortgage rates change daily, it’s unlikely we’ll see rates back at 3 percent anytime soon. If you’re shopping for a mortgage now, it might be wise to lock your rate when you find an affordable loan. If your house-hunt is taking longer than anticipated, revisit your budget so you’ll know exactly how much house you can afford at prevailing market rates.

To help you uncover the best deal, get at least three loan offers, according to Freddie Mac research. You don’t have to stick with your bank or credit union, either. There are many types of mortgage lenders, including online-only and local, smaller shops.

“All too often, some [homebuyers] take the path of least resistance when seeking a mortgage, in part because the process of buying a home can be stressful, complicated and time-consuming,” says Mark Hamrick, senior economic analyst for Bankrate. “But when we’re talking about the potential of saving a lot of money, seeking the best deal on a mortgage has an excellent return on investment. Why leave that money on the table when all it takes is a bit more effort to shop around for the best rate, or lowest cost, on a mortgage?”

More on current mortgage rates

Methodology

Bankrate displays two sets of rate averages that are produced from two surveys we conduct: one daily (“overnight averages”) and the other weekly (“Bankrate Monitor averages”).

The rates on this page represent our overnight averages. For these averages, APRs and rates are based on no existing relationship or automatic payments.

Learn more about Bankrate’s rate averages, editorial guidelines and how we make money.

Source: bankrate.com

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Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate mortgages to write unbiased product reviews.

Mortgage rates increased this week. But the latest news from the Federal Reserve suggests that we could see them start to tick down in the coming months.

On Wednesday, the Fed announced that it will keep the federal funds rate steady as it waits for more data showing that inflation is nearing its 2% goal. The central bank also released the latest Summary of Economic Projections, which showed that Fed officials still expect to cut rates three times this year. This would likely lead to lower mortgage interest rates as well. 

Average 30-year mortgage rates increased 13 basis points to 6.87% this week, according to Freddie Mac. Average 15-year rates also inched up to 6.21%. 

“After decreasing for a couple of weeks, mortgage rates are once again on the upswing,” Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist, said in a press release. “As the spring homebuying season gets underway, existing home inventory has increased slightly and new home construction has picked up. Despite elevated rates, homebuilders are displaying renewed confidence in the housing market, focusing on the fact that there is a good amount of pent-up demand, an ongoing supply shortage, and expectations that the Federal Reserve will cut rates later in the year.”

The Fed could start cutting rates as soon as its June meeting, according to the CME FedWatch Tool. This would remove some of the upward pressure off of mortgage rates and allow them to trend down a bit.

But it will likely be a while before we see affordability improve significantly. If you’re waiting for rates to drop before you start the homebuying process, you may have better luck later this year or in 2025. 

Mortgage Rates Today

Mortgage type Average rate today
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Mortgage Refinance Rates Today

Mortgage type Average rate today
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mortgage rates on Zillow

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Mortgage Calculator

Use our free mortgage calculator to see how today’s interest rates will affect your monthly payments.

Mortgage Calculator

$1,161
Your estimated monthly payment

Total paid$418,177
Principal paid$275,520
Interest paid$42,657
  • Paying a 25% higher down payment would save you $8,916.08 on interest charges
  • Lowering the interest rate by 1% would save you $51,562.03
  • Paying an additional $500 each month would reduce the loan length by 146 months

By clicking on “More details,” you’ll also see how much you’ll pay over the entire length of your mortgage, including how much goes toward the principal vs. interest.

30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates

Last week’s average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.87%, according to Freddie Mac. This is a 13-basis-point increase from the previous week.

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is the most common type of home loan. With this type of mortgage, you’ll pay back what you borrowed over 30 years, and your interest rate won’t change for the life of the loan.

The lengthy 30-year term allows you to spread out your payments over a long period of time, meaning you can keep your monthly payments lower and more manageable. The trade-off is that you’ll have a higher rate than you would with shorter terms or adjustable rates. 

15-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates

Average 15-year mortgage rates inched up to 6.21% last week, according to Freddie Mac data. This is a five-point increase since the week before.

If you want the predictability that comes with a fixed rate but are looking to spend less on interest over the life of your loan, a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage might be a good fit for you. Because these terms are shorter and have lower rates than 30-year fixed-rate mortgages, you could potentially save tens of thousands of dollars in interest. However, you’ll have a higher monthly payment than you would with a longer term.

How Do Fed Rate Hikes Affect Mortgages?

The Federal Reserve has increased the federal funds rate dramatically to try to slow economic growth and get inflation under control. So far, inflation has slowed significantly, but it’s still a bit above the Fed’s 2% target rate.

Mortgage rates aren’t directly impacted by changes to the federal funds rate, but they often trend up or down ahead of Fed policy moves. This is because mortgage rates change based on investor demand for mortgage-backed securities, and this demand is often impacted by how investors expect Fed hikes to affect the broader economy. 

The Fed has indicated that it’s likely done hiking rates and that it could start cutting soon. This will likely allow mortgage rates to trend down later this year.

When Will Mortgage Rates Go Down?

Mortgage rates increased dramatically over the last two years, but they’ve moderated somewhat in recent months, and are expected to drop further this year.

In February 2024, the Consumer Price Index rose 3.2% year-over-year. Inflation has slowed significantly since it peaked last year, which is good news for mortgage rates. But it has to slow further before rates will begin to fall.

For homeowners looking to leverage their home’s value to cover a big purchase — such as a home renovation — a home equity line of credit (HELOC) may be a good option while we wait for mortgage rates to ease. Check out some of our best HELOC lenders to start your search for the right loan for you.

A HELOC is a line of credit that lets you borrow against the equity in your home. It works similarly to a credit card in that you borrow what you need rather than getting the full amount you’re borrowing in a lump sum. It also lets you tap into the money you have in your home without replacing your entire mortgage, like you’d do with a cash-out refinance.

Current HELOC rates are relatively low compared to other loan options, including credit cards and personal loans. 

Molly Grace

Mortgage Reporter

Source: businessinsider.com

Apache is functioning normally

National mortgage rates increased for all loan terms compared to a week ago, according to data compiled by Bankrate. Rates for 30-year fixed, 15-year fixed, 5/1 ARMs and jumbo loans moved higher.

While it’s expected that rates will gradually come down this year, the path might be bumpy.

At its Jan. 31 meeting, the Federal Reserve announced it would hold off changing rates, but could cut rates in the future. At their March 20th meeting, the Fed will update their outlook on rates. Rate fluctuations affect many areas of the economy, including the 10-year Treasury, a key benchmark for fixed-rate mortgages.

“Where the 10-Year Treasury yield goes, mortgage rates will follow,” says Ken Johnson of Florida Atlantic University. “In roughly the last two months, the 10-year Treasury yield is up 50 basis points. Depending on the source, the 30-year mortgage rate is up 48 basis points. Treasurys’ path remains a coin toss at this point.”

Rates last updated March 25, 2024.

The rates listed above are marketplace averages based on the assumptions here. Actual rates listed on-site may vary. This story has been reviewed by Suzanne De Vita. All rate data accurate as of Monday, March 25th, 2024 at 7:30 a.m.

30-year mortgage increases, +0.10%

Today’s average rate for the benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage is 6.98 percent, an increase of 10 basis points over the last week. A month ago, the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage was higher, at 7.19 percent.

At the current average rate, you’ll pay a combined $663.96 per month in principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow. Compared to last week, that’s $6.70 higher.

Use Bankrate’s mortgage rate calculator to calculate your monthly payments and see how much you’ll save by adding extra payments. The tool will also help you calculate how much interest you’ll pay over the life of the loan.

15-year mortgage rate increases, +0.06%

The average rate for the benchmark 15-year fixed mortgage is 6.47 percent, up 6 basis points since the same time last week.

Monthly payments on a 15-year fixed mortgage at that rate will cost around $869 per $100,000 borrowed. The bigger payment may be a little more difficult to find room for in your monthly budget than a 30-year mortgage payment, but it comes with some big advantages: You’ll come out several thousand dollars ahead over the life of the loan in total interest paid and build equity much more quickly.

5/1 adjustable rate mortgage goes up, +0.13%

The average rate on a 5/1 ARM is 6.51 percent, climbing 13 basis points over the last week.

Adjustable-rate mortgages, or ARMs, are mortgage loans that come with a floating interest rate. To put it another way, the interest rate will change at regular intervals, unlike fixed-rate mortgages. These types of loans are best for people who expect to sell or refinance before the first or second adjustment. Rates could be considerably higher when the loan first adjusts, and thereafter.

While borrowers shunned ARMs during the pandemic days of super-low rates, this type of loan has made a comeback as mortgage rates have risen.

Monthly payments on a 5/1 ARM at 6.51 percent would cost about $633 for each $100,000 borrowed over the initial five years, but could ratchet higher by hundreds of dollars afterward, depending on the loan’s terms.

Jumbo mortgage rate goes up, +0.11%

The average rate for a jumbo mortgage is 7.09 percent, up 11 basis points over the last seven days. A month ago, the average rate for jumbo mortgages was higher at 7.24 percent.

At today’s average rate, you’ll pay $671.36 per month in principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow. Compared to last week, that’s $7.40 higher.

Refinance rates

30-year mortgage refinance climbs, +0.12%

The average 30-year fixed-refinance rate is 6.99 percent, up 12 basis points over the last seven days. A month ago, the average rate on a 30-year fixed refinance was higher at 7.16 percent.

At the current average rate, you’ll pay $664.63 per month in principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow. That’s up $8.04 from what it would have been last week.

Where are mortgage rates heading?

With inflation still above the Fed’s 2 percent goal and the job market holding strong, the Fed isn’t likely to cut rates at its March meeting.

“The Federal Reserve will not cut interest rates in the first half of this year, in my view,” says Lawrence Yun, chief economist of the National Association of Realtors, “but rate cuts of three, four or even five rounds will be possible in the second half of the year as rent measures will be much more well-behaved.”

The rates on 30-year mortgages mostly follow the 10-year Treasury, which shifts continuously as economic conditions dictate, while the cost of variable-rate home loans mirror the Fed’s moves.

These broader factors influence overall rate movement. As a borrower, you could be quoted a higher or lower rate compared to the trend.

What these rates mean for your mortgage

While mortgage rates change daily, it’s unlikely we’ll see rates back at 3 percent anytime soon. If you’re shopping for a mortgage now, it might be wise to lock your rate when you find an affordable loan. If your house-hunt is taking longer than anticipated, revisit your budget so you’ll know exactly how much house you can afford at prevailing market rates.

Keep in mind: You could save thousands over the life of your mortgage by getting at least three loan offers, according to Freddie Mac research. You don’t have to stick with your bank or credit union, either. There are many types of mortgage lenders, including online-only and local, smaller shops.

“All too often, some [homebuyers] take the path of least resistance when seeking a mortgage, in part because the process of buying a home can be stressful, complicated and time-consuming,” says Mark Hamrick, senior economic analyst for Bankrate. “But when we’re talking about the potential of saving a lot of money, seeking the best deal on a mortgage has an excellent return on investment. Why leave that money on the table when all it takes is a bit more effort to shop around for the best rate, or lowest cost, on a mortgage?”

More on current mortgage rates

Methodology

Bankrate displays two sets of rate averages that are produced from two surveys we conduct: one daily (“overnight averages”) and the other weekly (“Bankrate Monitor averages”).

The rates on this page represent our overnight averages. For these averages, APRs and rates are based on no existing relationship or automatic payments.

Learn more about Bankrate’s rate averages, editorial guidelines and how we make money.

Source: bankrate.com