Credit Scores
What Is a Good Credit Score? Ranges Explained
Credit scores range from 300 to 850, but what counts as good depends on the model and the lender. Here's what each range means for you.
You've probably heard that a "good" credit score opens doors to better rates and approvals. But what number actually counts as good? The answer depends a bit on which scoring model is used, but the ranges are similar.
FICO score ranges
FICO scores are used in most lending decisions. They range from 300 to 850:
| FICO score | Rating |
|---|---|
| 800–850 | Exceptional |
| 740–799 | Very good |
| 670–739 | Good |
| 580–669 | Fair |
| 300–579 | Poor |
A FICO score of 670 or higher is generally considered good. The average FICO score in the U.S. is in the low 700s.
VantageScore ranges
VantageScore, created by the three credit bureaus, also runs from 300 to 850 but labels ranges a bit differently: 781–850 excellent, 661–780 good, 601–660 fair, 500–600 poor and 300–499 very poor. Many free credit apps show VantageScore, which is why your app score may not match what a lender sees.
Why you have many credit scores
You don't have one credit score. You have dozens. Each bureau has different data, and lenders use different versions (like FICO 8, FICO 9, or industry-specific FICO Auto and Bankcard scores). Mortgage lenders often use older FICO versions. That's why it's more useful to focus on what drives all of them: your credit reports.
What makes up your credit score
- Payment history (about 35%): whether you pay on time.
- Amounts owed (about 30%): especially your credit utilization ratio.
- Length of credit history (about 15%): the age of your oldest and average accounts.
- New credit (about 10%): recent applications and new accounts.
- Credit mix (about 10%): having both revolving and installment accounts.
What your score means in real life
Moving up a tier can make a big financial difference:
- Mortgages: many conventional loans need at least 620, and the best rates typically go to scores in the 740s and up.
- Auto loans: scores below about 600 often mean subprime rates. See the credit score you need for a car loan.
- Credit cards: premium rewards cards usually look for good to excellent credit.
- Apartments and insurance: landlords and, in most states, insurers use credit information too.
Your score is only as accurate as your reports
If your reports contain errors, like a late payment that wasn't late or a collection that isn't yours, your score is lower than it should be. Reviewing your reports is the first step. Here's how to read your credit report.
Next steps
Want to know what's holding your score back? A free credit assessment with 30 Day Credit Pros covers all three bureaus. Or jump to our guide on how to raise your credit score fast.
Not sure which items on your reports are worth disputing? Our team will go over all three reports with you for free.
Get a Free Credit AssessmentFrequently asked questions
What is a good credit score?
On the FICO scale, 670 to 739 is considered good, 740 to 799 very good, and 800 or higher exceptional.
Is 700 a good credit score?
Yes. A 700 FICO score falls in the good range and qualifies for many loans and credit cards.
Why is my credit score different on different apps?
Apps may use different scoring models (FICO or VantageScore) and different bureau data, so the numbers can vary.
What is the highest credit score?
The highest FICO and VantageScore credit score is 850.