Who Has a 731 Credit Score?

While a 731 credit score is above the national average, where you fall in relation to your peers often depends on your age. Credit scores tend to increase over time as people build longer credit histories. According to 2023 data, here is the average FICO score by 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 731 Credit Score

A credit score of 731 is a solid number, placing you firmly in the "good" credit range. This means you'll likely be approved for many different types of credit cards, from cash-back and travel rewards cards to those with introductory 0% APR offers. While the most exclusive, top-tier cards might still require a higher score, a 731 gives you plenty of strong options to choose from.

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To find the best card for your financial situation, Kudos provides personalized recommendation engines like the Explore Tool, which matches you with cards based on your specific needs and preferences. This allows you to compare your top choices from a database of nearly 3,000 cards, ensuring you can find the perfect fit without being swayed by commission-based suggestions.

Auto Loans and a 731 Credit Score

A 731 credit score places you in the prime borrowing category, which generally qualifies you for competitive interest rates on auto loans. This score signals to lenders that you are a reliable borrower, increasing your chances of approval for both new and used car financing.

• Super-prime (781-850): New Car: 5.25% | Used Car: 7.13%
• Prime (661-780): New Car: 6.87% | Used Car: 9.36%
• Non-prime (601-660): New Car: 9.83% | Used Car: 13.92%
• Subprime (501-600): New Car: 13.18% | Used Car: 18.86%
• Deep subprime (300-500): New Car: 15.77% | Used Car: 21.55%

Mortgages at a 731 Credit Score

With a 731 credit score, you are in a strong position to secure a mortgage. This score is well above the minimum requirements for all major loan types, including conventional, jumbo, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. Lenders generally view a score in the 700s as a sign of a low-risk borrower, which significantly broadens your financing options and makes the approval process smoother.

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Your 731 score will also positively impact your loan terms. You can expect a more competitive interest rate than borrowers with scores in the 600s and may pay less for private mortgage insurance (PMI). While the absolute lowest interest rates are often reserved for scores of 760 or higher, your strong credit profile still provides access to favorable terms and more negotiating power with lenders.

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 731 Credit Score

A 731 credit score is considered good, but there's always room for improvement that can unlock better financial opportunities. No matter your starting point, there are proven methods to boost your creditworthiness and achieve an even healthier financial profile.

• Reduce your credit utilization ratio. Keeping your credit utilization well below 30% can push your score from good to great, as this is the second most important factor in your score. This shows lenders you manage credit responsibly, which is key for getting the best loan terms.
• Establish automatic bill payments. A single late payment can damage a good credit score, so ensuring on-time payments is critical. Automating your payments protects your payment history, the single most significant component of your credit score.
• Diversify your credit mix. Lenders like to see that you can handle different types of credit, such as revolving accounts and installment loans. Adding a new type of credit can strengthen your profile by demonstrating your ability to manage various financial products.
• Limit hard inquiries. While you shop for new credit, too many applications in a short period can temporarily lower your score. Use prequalification tools when possible and group similar applications, like for a mortgage or auto loan, within a short timeframe to minimize the impact.

For help managing your cards and maximizing rewards as you build your credit, consider using a financial companion like Kudos.