Compare current 15-year mortgage rates

Current 15-year mortgage rate trends

So far in 2024, the average rate for a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage has stayed in the 6 percent range, hitting a low of 6.13 percent in January, according to Bankrate data. The rate tracked up to 6.5 percent in February, but has since retreated under that mark.

Current 15-year mortgage rates compared to other loan types

One major advantage of a 15-year mortgage is its lower interest rate. Compared to a 30-year loan, a 15-year mortgage can carry an interest rate that’s about three-quarters of a percentage point lower. In fact, 15-year loans are some of the cheapest money you’ll find. That’s the upside. The downside? The shorter repayment schedule means your monthly payment will be higher.

Even if the total amount you’re interested in borrowing would be the same for a 15- or 30-year mortgage, you might have an easier time qualifying for the longer-term loan because its monthly payments are smaller and more manageable.

How to compare current 15-year mortgage rates

For the best chance of getting the lowest possible mortgage rate, compare loan offers from more than one lender. You might even consider working with a mortgage broker. Here’s how:

1. Get preapproved: Get rate quotes from at least three mortgage lenders, ideally on the same day so you have an accurate basis for comparison. Lenders determine your interest rate based on your credit score, debt-to-income (DTI) ratio and other factors, including the size of your down payment. Generally, borrowers with a credit score of 740 and up, a substantial down payment (20 percent is ideal, but not required) and a DTI ratio of no more than 43 percent score the most attractive offers.
2. Compare the interest rate and APR: The interest rate and annual percentage rate (APR) reflect the cost of the loan. The interest rate is the cost to borrow the funds, while the APR includes the interest rate and other costs such as the origination fee and any points. When comparing rate offers, the APR is a more complete picture of the all-in cost.
3. Consider the lender’s ratings and your experience: Aside from the numbers, evaluate other factors such as convenience and the lender’s responsiveness. Take a look at what other borrowers have had to say about the lender, too.

National mortgage rates by loan type

Should you get a 15-year mortgage?

There’s no right or wrong answer, so consider:

1. Can you afford the higher monthly mortgage payments? Many borrowers stretch as it is to fit a 30-year mortgage payment into their monthly budget. If that’s the case for you, it might be better to stick with the longer mortgage term, even if you don’t plan to stay in the home the full 30 years.
2. How do you feel about debt? If you’re comfortable with the concept of debt as a financial tool, it might make more sense to go with a 30-year loan. If you prefer paying down the mortgage more quickly, then check out 15-year term options.

You’ll also want to consider both the benefits and drawbacks of a 15-year mortgage so you can see how one might fit your financial goals:

Pros of a 15-year mortgage

• You’ll build equity faster. Compared to a 30-year loan, you’ll pay down your balance much more quickly.
• You’ll pay less interest. Rates on 15-year loans are typically lower than rates on 30-year loans. What’s more, you’ll pay less interest over the life of the loan.
• A larger chunk of monthly payments go toward the loan principal rather than interest. With a 30-year mortgage, only a fraction of early payments go to repaying principal. A 15-year loan speeds up that process.

Cons of a 15-year mortgage

• You’ll have higher monthly payments compared to longer-term loans. If you’re struggling to qualify, a 15-year mortgage will only increase the challenge.
• There’s an opportunity cost. Maybe it makes more sense to borrow more against your house and to invest the proceeds for retirement or other financial goals.
• There’s a potential loss of mortgage interest tax breaks due to paying less interest. Many Americans no longer benefit from the mortgage interest deduction, but if you do, consider the tax implications.

15-year mortgage FAQ

Refinancing into a 15-year mortgage

If you have a 30-year mortgage and are more than halfway through your loan term, refinancing into a 15-year loan with a lower rate could save you thousands in interest. Bankrate’s 15-year vs. 30-year calculator can help you make the decision.

In general, 15-year mortgages have higher monthly payments due to the shorter term — but, depending on how much lower you can cut your rate and the balance of your current loan, your monthly payment might not increase as much as you think it will, or at all.

Whichever type of refinance you pursue, shop around for rates and compare offers, including lender fees.

Learn more about how to refinance your mortgage.