What Is a Good Credit Score? Ranges Explained
Credit score ranges explained in plain English: what counts as good, what each tier gets you, and how to move up.
You've probably heard that you need a "good" credit score to get the best loan rates, but what number actually counts as good? The answer depends on the scoring model and the lender, but there are clear, widely used ranges. This guide breaks them down, explains what each range means for you in practice, and shows how to move up a tier.
This guide covers U.S. credit scores (FICO and VantageScore), which typically run from 300 to 850. Credit scores in the UK and Canada use different scales, though the same habits improve them.
Credit score ranges at a glance
FICO, the scoring model most lenders use, groups scores into these ranges:
| FICO score | Rating | What it usually means |
|---|---|---|
| 800–850 | Exceptional | Access to the best rates and terms available |
| 740–799 | Very good | Better-than-average rates; approvals come easily |
| 670–739 | Good | Considered an acceptable borrower by most lenders |
| 580–669 | Fair | Approval possible, but often at higher interest rates |
| 300–579 | Poor | Approvals are harder; may need secured or credit-builder products |
So, broadly speaking, a "good" credit score starts at about 670, and scores of 740 and above generally qualify for the most competitive offers. Many lenders don't give you much extra for going from 780 to 850, so you don't need a perfect score.
FICO vs. VantageScore
There are two major scoring brands in the U.S.:
- FICO Score: used in the vast majority of lending decisions, including most mortgages, car loans and credit cards.
- VantageScore: created jointly by the three credit bureaus. It's commonly shown in free credit-monitoring apps.
Both use a 300–850 range and look at similar information, but they weigh it a little differently. That's why the score in your banking app may not match the score a lender sees. Don't worry if they differ by a few dozen points; focus on the trend over time.
Why you have more than one credit score
It surprises many people that they don't have a credit score. They have many. Your score can vary because:
- Each bureau has slightly different data. Not every lender reports to Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
- There are many score versions. Lenders may use older or industry-specific FICO versions (for example, auto or bankcard scores).
- Timing. Your balances change throughout the month, and scores are calculated from whatever was last reported.
What a good score gets you
A higher credit score is valuable because it lowers the cost of borrowing. Even a small difference in interest rate adds up on big loans. A higher score can help you:
- Qualify for lower rates on mortgages, car loans and personal loans
- Get approved for credit cards with better rewards and lower APRs
- Rent an apartment more easily or skip a large security deposit
- Avoid utility and phone deposits
- Pay less for car and home insurance in states where insurers may use credit-based insurance scores
What goes into your score
FICO publishes the general weight of each factor:
- Payment history (about 35%): paying on time, every time
- Amounts owed (about 30%): mostly your credit utilization
- Length of credit history (about 15%)
- New credit (about 10%): recent applications and new accounts
- Credit mix (about 10%): having both revolving and installment credit
Your income, savings, job title and age are not part of your credit score.
How to move up a credit tier
If you're in the fair or good range and want to reach very good or exceptional, the playbook is simple but requires patience:
- Pay every bill on time. Set up autopay for at least the minimum on every account.
- Keep credit card balances low. Aim for under 30% of your limits, and under 10% if you're chasing the top tier.
- Don't close your oldest cards if they have no annual fee.
- Apply for new credit sparingly.
- Check your credit reports for errors at AnnualCreditReport.com and dispute anything inaccurate.
For a full step-by-step plan, read how to improve your credit score. If card balances are holding you back, our guide to how credit card interest works shows why paying them down pays off twice.
How to check your credit score for free
- Your bank or card issuer: many show a free FICO or VantageScore in their app.
- Free credit-monitoring services: usually show VantageScore.
- Credit reports: you can get free reports from all three bureaus through AnnualCreditReport.com. Reports don't always include a score, but they show the data scores are built from.
Checking your own score is a "soft inquiry" and never lowers it.
Bottom line: A score of 670 or higher is generally considered good, and 740+ usually unlocks the best rates. Focus on on-time payments and low balances, check your reports once in a while, and your score will climb steadily.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good credit score?
On the common FICO scale of 300 to 850, a score of 670 or higher is generally considered good, 740 or higher is very good, and 800 or higher is exceptional.
Why are my credit scores different on different apps?
There are many scoring models (such as FICO and VantageScore) and versions, and each credit bureau may have slightly different information about you. Small differences are normal.
Does my income affect my credit score?
No. Credit scores are based on information in your credit reports, such as payment history and balances. Income, savings and employment aren't included, though lenders may consider them separately.
How long does it take to go from fair to good credit?
It varies, but many people see meaningful improvement within six to twelve months of consistent on-time payments and lower credit card balances.
Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and isn't personalised financial, tax or legal advice. Consider speaking with a qualified professional about your situation. Read our full disclaimer.