FHA Loan Rates Today (May 2026) — All 50 States | State Loan Rates
FHA Loan Rates — All 50 States (May 2026)
Last updated: May 21, 2026 · Rates updated daily
The national average FHA 30-year fixed rate is currently 6.25% APR — typically 0.2–0.4% lower than conventional rates. FHA loans require just 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score, making them the most accessible mortgage for first-time buyers and those with less-than-perfect credit.
FHA 30-yr avg
6.25%
National APR
vs Conventional
0.33% lower
Rate advantage
Min down payment
3.5%
With 580+ score
Upfront MIP
1.75%
Of loan amount
Annual MIP
0.55%
Of loan/year
FHA important note: FHA loans carry mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) — 1.75% upfront plus 0.55%/year ongoing. If you put less than 10% down, MIP is permanent for the life of the loan. Use our FHA vs Conventional Calculator to see which saves you more.
FHA Loan Rates — All 50 States
Click any state to see detailed rate comparisons and local market information.
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. Because the federal government backs these loans, lenders can offer lower rates and more flexible qualification requirements than conventional mortgages.
FHA loans are particularly popular with first-time homebuyers and buyers with credit scores below 740. The 3.5% minimum down payment on a $400,000 home is just $14,000 — significantly less than $80,000 for 20% conventional.
FHA loan limits by state (2026)
FHA loan limits vary by county. The baseline 2026 FHA limit is $524,225 for most counties. High-cost areas including much of California, Hawaii, and New York have limits up to $1,149,825.
As of May 2026, the national average FHA 30-year fixed rate is approximately 6.25% APR — about 0.33% lower than the conventional average.
What credit score do I need for an FHA loan?
Minimum 580 with 3.5% down, or 500–579 with 10% down. Most lenders prefer 620+. For the best FHA rates, aim for 680+.
When does FHA MIP go away?
With 10%+ down, MIP cancels after 11 years. With less than 10% down, MIP is permanent — you must refinance to a conventional loan to remove it.
FHA vs conventional — which is better?
Depends on your situation. FHA often wins short-term due to lower rates. Conventional often wins long-term because PMI cancels. Use our FHA vs Conventional Calculator for a precise comparison.
Disclaimer: Rates shown are for informational purposes only. State Loan Rates is not a lender or broker. Always verify rates with lenders. Full disclaimer
