30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates for Nov 12, 2026

Compare 30-year fixed mortgage rates in the table below. Want a personalized quote? See if you qualify with a licensed broker.

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About 30-year fixed mortgages

A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is America's most popular home loan, offering predictable monthly payments that never change over the entire loan term. This stability makes budgeting easier and protects you from rising interest rates, though you'll pay more total interest compared to shorter terms.

Best for buyers planning to stay in their home long-term who prioritize lower monthly payments over minimizing total interest. The extended timeline also allows for gradual equity building while maintaining financial flexibility for other investments or expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose a 30-year fixed over a shorter term?

A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage keeps your monthly payment lower than a 15-year term on the same loan amount. That extra flexibility can make it easier to qualify and frees up cash flow for savings, investments, or other goals. In exchange, you’ll pay more total interest over the life of the loan.

Can I pay off a 30-year fixed mortgage early?

In most cases, yes. Many 30-year fixed mortgages have no prepayment penalty, so you can make extra payments toward principal, switch to biweekly payments, or refinance into a shorter term later. Even small extra payments can shave years off your loan and save thousands in interest.

How does a 30-year fixed compare to an ARM?

A 30-year fixed trades a slightly higher starting rate for long-term stability—your payment won’t change if rates rise. An ARM often starts lower but can adjust after the fixed period. If you plan to stay in the home long term or value payment certainty, a 30-year fixed is usually the safer choice.

How much down payment do I need for a 30-year fixed?

For a conventional 30-year fixed mortgage, many buyers aim for 20% down to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), but you can often qualify with as little as 3–5% down depending on your profile and lender. If you need lower down payment options, government-backed programs can help: FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down (see FHA loan rates), VA loans for eligible veterans and service members can offer 0% down (see VA loan rates), and USDA loans for eligible rural and suburban areas also offer 0% down (see USDA loans).

What credit score do I need for the best 30-year fixed rates?

Lenders tend to reserve their best 30-year fixed rates for borrowers with strong credit—often 740+—and solid income and debt profiles. You can still qualify with lower scores, but your rate will generally be higher. Improving your credit score before applying can meaningfully reduce your monthly payment and total interest.