Average Credit Score by Age (2024)

FAQs

Average Credit Score by Age? ›

According to credit bureau Experian, a good credit score is 700 or above. But if you're in your 20s and just starting out, a score of 700 or higher may be tough as you're just establishing your credit history.

According to credit bureau Experian, a good credit score is 700 or above. But if you're in your 20s and just starting out, a score of 700 or higher may be tough as you're just establishing your credit history.

How rare is an 800 credit score? An 800 credit score is not as rare as most people think, considering that roughly 23% of adults have a credit score in the 800-850 range, according to data from FICO. A score in this range allows consumers to access the best credit card offers and loans with the most favorable terms.

Baby boomers (ages 58 to 76) with 800-plus scores have an average utilization ratio of 6.3%, while all baby boomer cardholders have an average utilization ratio of 14.3%. The silent generation (ages 77 and older) with 800-plus scores have an average utilization ratio of 4.6%.

Average FICO^® Score in the U.S. Climbs to 715

Despite the slight increase over the past 12 months, average FICO^® Scores have meandered throughout 2023, with average scores increasing from 714 to 716 this past summer, before settling at 715 at the end of the Q3 2023.

Average Credit Score for Ages 18-25 (Generation Z)

The average FICO® credit score for those aged between 18-25 is 679. Consumers in this age bracket are only starting to build their scores. These consumers may have a low-limit student credit card and are making payments towards their student loans.

In the United States, 23% of consumers have a FICO® Score that is 800 or higher. Is a 900 credit score possible? Most credit scores that lenders use in the United States range from 300-850. Base FICO® Scores and most VantageScore credit scores follow this credit score range.

Your credit score is a major factor in whether you'll be approved for a car loan. Some lenders use specialized credit scores, such as a FICO Auto Score. In general, you'll need at least prime credit, meaning a credit score of 661 or up, to get a loan at a good interest rate.

The credit score required and other eligibility factors for buying a car vary by lender and loan terms. Still, you typically need a good credit score of 661 or higher to qualify for an auto loan. About 69% of retail vehicle financing is for borrowers with credit scores of 661 or higher, according to Experian.

Some types of mortgages have specific minimum credit score requirements. A conventional loan requires a credit score of at least 620, but it's ideal to have a score of 740 or above, which could allow you to make a lower down payment, get a more attractive interest rate and save on private mortgage insurance.

How rare is 900 credit score? ›

It's exceedingly rare for anyone to have a credit score over 900, as most credit scoring models have a maximum limit of 850, and even achieving that score is uncommon.

An 800 credit score shows lenders you are an exceptional borrower. You may qualify for better mortgage and auto loan terms with a high credit score. You may also qualify for credit cards with better rewards and perks, such as access to airport lounges and free hotel breakfasts.

A perfect credit score of 850 is hard to get, but an excellent credit score is more achievable. If you want to get the best credit cards, mortgages and competitive loan rates — which can save you money over time — excellent credit can help you qualify. “Excellent” is the highest tier of credit scores you can have.

The average credit score for those in their 30s is 672.

Credit scores range anywhere between 300 and 850, though anything above 700 is considered a good credit score. But don't worry if your credit score is under 700.

For a score with a range between 300 and 850, a credit score of 700 or above is generally considered good. A score of 800 or above on the same range is considered to be excellent. Most consumers have credit scores that fall between 600 and 750. In 2022, the average FICO^® Score^☉ in the U.S. reached 714.

FICO says scores of 580 to 669 are considered "fair" and 740 to 799 are considered "very good." Anything at 800 or above is considered "exceptional." NerdWallet's credit score bands, used for general guidance, are pictured above.