The best and worst average credit scores range from 742 in Minnesota to 680 in Mississippi.
See where your state ranks and get tips for how to improve your credit score no matter where you live.
According to the latest FICO data, the average credit score in the United States is 717 after holding steady at 718 for most of 2023. The average VantageScore is 702 as of June 2024.
Overall, Americans have good credit, but Minnesota has the highest average credit score at 742, earning the only “Very Good” credit rating out of all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Mississippi, on the other hand, has the lowest average score at 680, which is considered “Good”.
If you’re wondering how your credit score compares to others’ in your state, you’re in the right place. The Credit Saint research team analyzed FICO Score data for all 50 states and the District of Columbia to give you the most up-to-date view of credit score averages across the country in 2024.
Read on to see which states have the best — and the worst — average credit scores, and get tips on how to improve your score no matter where you live.
| Key Takeaways |
- From 2023 to 2024, the average FICO® Score credit score decreased by one point to 717 while the average VantageScore credit score increased by one point to 702.
- Minnesota has the highest average credit score at 742.
- Mississippi has the lowest at 680.
- There is a 62 point difference between the highest average credit score and the lowest.
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What is a good credit score?
Generally, a credit score above 670 is widely recognized by many lenders as a reliable indicator of good creditworthiness.
A good credit score demonstrates to lenders that you are a dependable borrower. Each lender sets its own standards for what it considers a good credit score and determines how to apply this score, along with other information, during the loan approval process.
Having good credit matters most when you’re making big money moves — like securing a home or auto loan, renting an apartment, applying for a credit card, or getting insurance coverage. Good credit can lead to more favorable interest rates and lower monthly payments.
It’s good to know where you stand so you can plan for building or repairing your credit if needed.
Average credit scores by state
States with the highest and lowest average credit scores
The top 10 states with the highest average credit scores include:
- Minnesota: 742
- Vermont: 737
- Wisconsin: 737
- New Hampshire: 736
- Washington: 735
- South Dakota: 734
- North Dakota: 733
- Hawaii: 732
- Massachusetts: 732
- Montana: 732
The bottom 10 states with the lowest average credit scores include:
- Mississippi: 680
- Louisiana: 690
- Alabama: 692
- Texas: 695
- Georgia: 695
- Oklahoma: 696
- Arkansas: 696
- South Carolina: 699
- New Mexico: 702
- Nevada: 702
Best and worst average credit score rankings by state
Below is the full list of average credit scores across the U.S. by state, including how these scores have shifted from 2022 to 2023, using the most recent data from Experian®.
How to Improve Your Credit Score
Improving your credit score doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some straightforward strategies that can help boost your score:
- Pay Promptly: The most important thing is to always pay on time. Your payment history affects your score the most.
- Lower Balances: Try to keep your credit card balances low and use only a small part of your credit limit.
- Open Carefully: Don’t open several new credit accounts at the same time; it can lower your credit score.
- Maintain History: Keep old credit accounts open to show a longer credit history, which helps your score.
- Check Regularly: Check your credit report for mistakes now and then, and fix any errors you see.
By sticking to these guidelines and monitoring your financial habits, you'll not only improve your credit score but also enhance your overall financial health.
Remember, a better credit score can open doors to lower interest rates and more favorable loan terms in the future.
Looking for help with your credit?
Bottom Line
Your credit score plays a critical role in your financial life, influencing everything from loan approvals to interest rates. Across the U.S., average credit scores vary significantly, with a 62-point difference between the highest in Minnesota (742) and the lowest in Mississippi (680). Whether your state ranks high or low, the key to improving your credit is consistent, responsible financial habits.
To elevate your credit score, focus on making timely payments, keeping credit balances low, and maintaining a long credit history. Regularly checking your credit report for errors and avoiding unnecessary new accounts can also make a significant difference.
By taking these steps, you can boost your score and unlock better financial opportunities, no matter where you live.
Methodology
The Credit Saint research team gathered average FICO credit score data for each state from Experian’s 2023 Consumer Credit Review.
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