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You Have Good Credit When Your Credit Score Surpasses This Number
July 1, 2025
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What credit score is considered “good”? In general, you have good credit once your score surpasses the mid-600s – specifically above 670 on the popular FICO scale. In other words, a FICO score 670 or higher is typically deemed a good credit score.
Below, we break down what that means and how it can benefit you (and your wallet).
What Is a Good Credit Score?
Good credit is defined by a specific range on your credit score scale. Most credit scores run from 300 to 850. According to FICO – the scoring model used by 90% of lenders – any score from 670 to 739 falls into the “good” range. Scores above that are very good or excellent, while anything lower is fair or poor.
For example, Experian and FICO categorize credit score ranges as:
- 300–579: Poor
- 580–669: Fair
- 670–739: Good
- 740–799: Very Good
- 800–850: Exceptional
Notably, there are different scoring models. VantageScore 3.0, an alternative model, also uses 300–850 but labels the ranges a bit differently. VantageScore considers 661 and up as prime or “good” credit. The good news is that by either model, once your score is roughly in the high 600s or above, you’re viewed as a responsible borrower.
In fact, the average U.S. FICO score was around 715 in late 2023 – solidly within the good range. This means the majority of Americans (about 71% of people) have a credit score of 670 or higher, so you’d be in good company when you reach this milestone.
Why Does Having Good Credit Matter?
Having your credit score in the good range is more than just a badge of honor – it opens doors to tangible financial perks.
Lower Rates and Better Offers
With good credit, you’ll typically qualify for lower interest rates on loans and credit lines. Lenders generally view scores above 670 as signifying reliable borrowers, which means they’re willing to offer more favorable terms. For example, someone with a good or very good score may secure a mortgage or auto loan with a much lower interest rate than someone with fair credit.
Over the life of a loan, a lower rate can save you thousands of dollars in interest. Credit card issuers are also more likely to approve you for cards with 0% introductory APR deals or higher credit limits when your score is solidly good.
Access to Better Credit Card Rewards and Perks
Good credit unlocks the door to premium credit cards and reward programs. Many of the top travel rewards cards, cash-back cards, and balance transfer offers are only available to applicants with good (or excellent) credit. Once your score surpasses the good-credit threshold, you can start qualifying for cards that offer sizable sign-up bonuses, elite rewards rates, and VIP perks.
Have a good credit score and wondering which credit card will maximize your rewards? Kudos can help you effortlessly compare top cards and uncover hidden perks for each purchase – all for free and with no impact on your credit score.
Tips to Achieve (and Maintain) a Good Credit Score
If your current score isn’t above the magic number (around 670) yet, don’t worry – credit scores aren’t fixed. They change over time as you build positive history.
Here are some actionable steps:
- Pay every bill on time. Payment history is the number one factor in your credit score.
- Keep your credit utilization low. Try to stay below 30% utilization on each card (and overall).
- Avoid opening too many accounts at once. Each new account reduces your average age of credit.
- Don’t close old credit card accounts. Keeping older accounts helps your credit history length.
- Monitor your credit report regularly. Check for errors or fraud that could be dragging down your score.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 700 a good credit score?
Yes. A 700 credit score is generally considered solidly good because it’s above the 670 cutoff.
Is a 660 credit score good?
No. A 660 score would be classified as fair credit, not good.
Does having a good credit score really matter?
Yes, having a good credit score matters a lot. Good credit saves you money and makes life easier.
Can I get a mortgage with a good credit score?
Yes. If your score is in the good range (roughly 670 or above), you can generally qualify for a mortgage.
How long does it take to build good credit from scratch?
It depends, but typically 6 to 12 months of responsible use can get you into the good range if you’re starting from scratch.
Conclusion
In summary, you have “good” credit once your score surpasses roughly 670. Reaching a good credit score is an achievable goal, and it brings real benefits like cheaper loans and premium credit card perks. By understanding what goes into your score and forming healthy credit habits, you can either attain or maintain that good-credit status.
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Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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