Mortgage Rates Today, January 24, 2026: 30-Year Fixed Falls Back to Key 6% Level

Mortgage rates moved slightly lower at the end of the week, with the 30-year fixed mortgage rate returning to an important psychological level. According to data from Zillow, the national average 30-year rate now sits at 6.00%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.50%.

For many buyers and homeowners, this marks a potential window to lock in a rate before markets shift again.

Mortgage Rates Today

Here are today’s average mortgage rates based on Zillow’s lender marketplace data. Rates are national averages and rounded to the nearest hundredth.

• 30-year fixed: 6.00%
• 20-year fixed: 5.98%
• 15-year fixed: 5.50%
• 5/1 ARM: 6.15%
• 7/1 ARM: 6.35%
• 30-year VA: 5.54%
• 15-year VA: 5.14%
• 5/1 VA: 5.18%

These averages can vary by lender, credit profile, loan type, and location.

Mortgage Refinance Rates Today

Refinance rates are often slightly higher than purchase rates. Here’s where refinance averages stand today:

• 30-year fixed: 6.12%
• 20-year fixed: 6.09%
• 15-year fixed: 5.60%
• 5/1 ARM: 6.39%
• 7/1 ARM: 6.88%
• 30-year VA: 5.59%
• 15-year VA: 5.35%
• 5/1 VA: 5.31%

Refinancing can still make sense if you’re lowering your rate enough to offset closing costs or switching into a shorter loan term.

30-Year vs. 15-Year Mortgage: What to Know

A 30-year fixed mortgage remains popular because of its lower monthly payment and stable rate. Payments stay predictable over time, making budgeting easier. The tradeoff is higher total interest paid over the life of the loan.

A 15-year fixed mortgage comes with a lower interest rate and much less total interest over time. You’ll own your home sooner, but monthly payments are higher because the loan is paid off faster.

If a 15-year payment feels too steep, some borrowers choose a 30-year loan and make extra payments when possible.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs): A Quick Look

Adjustable-rate mortgages lock in a rate for a set period, then adjust annually. A 5/1 ARM, for example, keeps the same rate for five years before changing.

• Pros: Lower starting rate and smaller early payments
• Cons: Rate and payment can rise later

ARMs may work well if you plan to sell or refinance before the fixed-rate period ends.

Is Now a Good Time to Buy a Home?

Compared with the last few years, conditions are more balanced. Home prices are no longer rising at pandemic-era speeds, and mortgage rates are well below their peak from early 2025.

Trying to perfectly time the market rarely works. Buying usually makes the most sense when it fits your finances, job stability, and long-term plans.

Mortgage Rates Today: FAQs

What is today’s 30-year mortgage rate?
According to Zillow, the national average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.00%.

Why do rates differ between sources like Zillow and Freddie Mac?
Each source collects data differently. Zillow pulls live rates from lenders, while Freddie Mac surveys recent loan applications. Both are useful, but neither reflects every borrower’s exact offer.

Are mortgage rates expected to fall further in 2026?
Forecasts from the Mortgage Bankers Association suggest rates may hover around the mid-6% range through much of 2026. Fannie Mae expects rates to dip closer to 5.9% later in the year.

How can I get the lowest mortgage or refinance rate?
Improve your credit score, reduce debt, shop multiple lenders, and consider shorter loan terms if your budget allows.

Bottom line: Mortgage rates today are back at a key level, with the 30-year fixed holding at 6.00%. For buyers and refinancers who’ve been waiting, this may be a reasonable moment to act especially if rates become more volatile in the weeks ahead.