Credit Score Requirements to Buy a House in 2026
Published: June 1, 2026
Your credit score is one of the biggest factors lenders use to decide whether you qualify for a mortgage—and what interest rate you’ll pay. In 2026, loan programs have clearly defined minimums, but your score still affects how much house you can actually afford. Below, we break down the minimum credit score requirements for each major loan type and show how your score changes your monthly payment.
Minimum Credit Score by Loan Type (2026)
- FHA Loan: 580 minimum — with a 580+ score, you can put down as little as 3.5%. Scores between 500–579 require 10% down.
- Conventional Loan: 620 minimum — most conventional lenders follow Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines, which set the floor at 620.
- USDA Loan: 640 minimum — the USDA automated underwriting system generally requires a 640 score for streamlined approval.
- VA Loan: No official minimum — the VA does not set a minimum score, but most lenders impose their own floor, often 580–620.
How Your Credit Score Affects Your Rate and Monthly Payment
A higher credit score signals lower risk to lenders, which translates to a lower interest rate. Even a 1% difference in rate can add or subtract hundreds of dollars from your monthly mortgage payment and tens of thousands in total interest over the life of the loan.
For example, on a $350,000 30-year fixed mortgage, the difference between a 740+ score and a 620 score can change your monthly principal-and-interest payment by roughly $150–$250, depending on market conditions.
Before you shop, use our mortgage calculator to see exactly how rate changes affect your budget.
Estimated Rate by Credit Score (2026)
The table below shows approximate 30-year fixed-rate ranges for a $350,000 loan, assuming market rates near 6.5–7.0% for well-qualified borrowers. Actual rates vary by lender, location, and loan program.
| Credit Score Range | Estimated APR | Monthly P&I | Total Interest (30 Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 760+ | 6.50% | ~$2,212 | ~$446,000 |
| 740–759 | 6.65% | ~$2,245 | ~$458,000 |
| 720–739 | 6.80% | ~$2,279 | ~$470,000 |
| 700–719 | 6.95% | ~$2,313 | ~$482,000 |
| 680–699 | 7.15% | ~$2,360 | ~$500,000 |
| 660–679 | 7.40% | ~$2,419 | ~$520,000 |
| 640–659 | 7.70% | ~$2,492 | ~$547,000 |
| 620–639 | 8.00% | ~$2,568 | ~$574,000 |
| 580–619 | 8.50%+ | ~$2,692 | ~$619,000 |
*Estimates exclude taxes, insurance, and PMI. Use our mortgage calculator for a personalized payment breakdown.
Which Loan Is Right for You?
FHA and Conventional loans are the two most common options for first-time buyers. If you’re unsure which program fits your credit profile, read our detailed comparison: FHA vs Conventional: Which Mortgage Is Better in 2026?.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum credit score to buy a house in 2026?
The minimum depends on the loan program. FHA requires 580 (with 3.5% down), Conventional requires 620, USDA requires 640, and VA loans have no official minimum.
Can I buy a house with a 600 credit score?
Yes. A 600 score qualifies you for an FHA loan and may meet some lender overlays for VA or USDA loans. You will likely face a higher rate than borrowers with scores above 640.
How much does a credit score affect my monthly mortgage payment?
On a $350,000 loan, the payment difference between a 760 score and a 620 score can exceed $350 per month due to rate adjustments and potential PMI costs.
Should I improve my credit score before applying?
If you can raise your score by 20–40 points within a few months, you may secure a lower rate and reduce your payment. Pay down credit cards, dispute errors, and avoid new credit inquiries.