Who Has a 629 Credit Score?

While age isn't a direct factor in credit score calculations, there is a clear correlation between age and average credit scores. Data shows that scores tend to improve as people get older. Here is the average FICO score by generation as of 2023:

• Generation Z (ages 18-26): 680
• Millennials (ages 27-42): 690
• Generation X (ages 43-58): 709
• Baby Boomers (ages 59-77): 745
• Silent Generation (ages 78+): 760

Credit Cards With a 629 Credit Score

A credit score of 629 places you in the "fair" credit range, which can be a mixed bag when applying for new credit cards. While you'll likely find lenders willing to approve your application, your options may be limited to cards designed for those building or rebuilding credit. Consequently, you might face less favorable terms, such as higher interest rates and lower credit limits, compared to applicants with stronger credit histories.

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To navigate your options, Kudos offers AI-powered features like the Explore Tool and Dream Wallet, which analyze your spending habits and financial goals to provide personalized recommendations. These tools help you compare cards and even offer insights into how applying for a new one could impact your credit score, empowering you to make an informed decision.

Auto Loans and a 629 Credit Score

A 629 credit score places you in the non-prime borrower category, meaning you can likely still get approved for an auto loan. However, you should expect to face higher interest rates than applicants with better credit.

According to a 2025 auto loan analysis, average interest rates for new and used cars break down by credit score bracket as follows:

• Super-prime (781-850): 5.25% for new cars and 7.13% for used cars.
• Prime (661-780): 6.87% for new cars and 9.36% for used cars.
• Non-prime (601-660): 9.83% for new cars and 13.92% for used cars.
• Subprime (501-600): 13.18% for new cars and 18.86% for used cars.
• Deep subprime (300-500): 15.77% for new cars and 21.55% for used cars.

Mortgages at a 629 Credit Score

With a 629 credit score, you meet the minimum requirements for several types of home loans. You can generally qualify for FHA, VA, and USDA loans. You may also be eligible for a conventional loan, as the typical minimum is 620, though some lenders prefer higher scores. According to mortgage loan requirements, approval will also depend on other factors like your income and debt.

However, a 629 score will impact your loan terms. You can expect to face higher interest rates, potentially costing you significantly more over the life of the loan. For conventional loans, it also means paying more for private mortgage insurance (PMI). Lenders may also apply stricter underwriting standards during the approval process.

What's in a Credit Score?

Figuring out what goes into your credit score can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle, but it's primarily based on a handful of key financial habits. The most common factors include:

• Your payment history tracks whether you have paid past credit accounts on time.
• Credit utilization is the percentage of your available credit that you are currently using.
• The length of your credit history considers the age of your oldest account and the average age of all your accounts.
• Having a healthy mix of credit types, such as credit cards and installment loans, can positively impact your score.
• Recent credit inquiries and newly opened accounts can temporarily lower your score.

How to Improve Your 629 Credit Score

No matter your current standing, it is always possible to improve your financial profile. There are several proven methods to boost your creditworthiness and build a healthier score over time.

• Monitor your credit reports. Checking your reports regularly helps you spot and dispute any inaccuracies that could be unfairly lowering your 629 score. This also allows you to track your progress and stay motivated as you work toward your credit goals.
• Set up automatic bill payments. Your payment history is the single most important factor in your credit score, so ensuring every bill is paid on time is essential. Establishing automatic payments prevents late fees and builds the positive payment history needed to move beyond a 629 score.
• Lower your credit utilization ratio. Lenders see high balances as a risk, so reducing your credit utilization below 30% can provide a significant boost. For a 629 score, paying down balances or even making multiple payments per month can quickly improve this key scoring factor.
• Become an authorized user. If you have a trusted friend or family member with excellent credit, being added to their account can add their positive history to your file. This can be a fast track to improving a 629 score by demonstrating creditworthiness through association.

As you build your credit, using a tool like Kudos can help you use your credit cards more strategically to maximize rewards.