Who Has a 654 Credit Score?

While age isn't a direct factor in calculating your credit score, there's a clear trend showing scores improve over time. Data from Experian shows a steady increase in the average FICO score with each successive generation:

• 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 654 Credit Score

A credit score of 654 places you in the "fair" credit range, meaning you'll likely be able to qualify for a variety of credit cards. However, you may not have access to the most exclusive cards that offer premium rewards, low interest rates, and extensive benefits. Cards available to applicants in this range often come with higher-than-average APRs and may include an annual fee, so it's crucial to review the terms carefully before applying.

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Kudos can help you find the right card for your financial situation with its AI-powered tools that offer personalized recommendations from a database of nearly 3,000 cards. Whether you use the Explore Tool to filter by your preferences or the Dream Wallet to analyze your spending, Kudos provides insights on how different cards align with your goals and may impact your credit score.

Auto Loans and a 654 Credit Score

A credit score of 654 places you in the non-prime borrower category, which means you can likely still secure an auto loan. However, you should anticipate higher interest rates than applicants with stronger credit, making your financing more costly over the long run.

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

Data based on Experian’s Q2 2025 Automotive Finance Market report.

Mortgages at a 654 Credit Score

A 654 credit score puts you in a solid position to buy a home. You'll likely meet the minimum credit score requirements for several major loan types, including conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. This gives you far more options than borrowers with scores below 620, though most jumbo loans will remain out of reach.

However, while you can get approved, a 654 score will impact your loan terms. You won't qualify for the most competitive interest rates, which are reserved for applicants with scores in the mid-700s and above. This means you'll face a higher cost of borrowing and may also pay more for private mortgage insurance (PMI).

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 generally boils down to a handful of key elements. The most common factors include:

• Your payment history, which tracks whether you pay your bills on time, is the most significant factor.
• Credit utilization, or the amount of credit you're using compared to your total available credit, also plays a major role.
• The length of your credit history demonstrates your experience with managing credit over time.
• Having a healthy mix of different types of credit, such as credit cards and installment loans, can positively impact your score.
• Finally, recent credit inquiries, which occur when you apply for new credit, are also taken into account.

How to Improve Your 654 Credit Score

No matter your current standing, improving your credit score is always within reach. With consistent effort and the right strategies, you can boost your creditworthiness and achieve a healthier financial profile.

• Monitor your credit reports. Regularly checking your reports helps you spot and dispute inaccuracies that could be unfairly dragging down your score. For someone with a 654 score, correcting errors is one of the most direct ways to see an improvement.
• Establish automatic bill payments. Your payment history is the most significant factor in your credit score. Ensuring every bill is paid on time will build a positive track record and steadily lift your 654 score over time.
• Reduce your credit utilization ratio. High credit utilization can significantly lower your score, and keeping your balance below 30% of your limit can provide a quick boost. This shows lenders you can manage credit responsibly, which is crucial for moving out of the fair credit range.
• Become an authorized user. Being added to a credit card account of a trusted person with good credit habits can add their positive history to your file. This can help lengthen your credit history and lower your overall utilization, providing a valuable lift to a 654 score.

To help you find the right credit cards for building your score while maximizing rewards, consider using a tool like Kudos.