Today's Mortgage Rates: May 26, 2026
By Erin Hollister · May 26, 2026 · 6 min read
The average interest rate on a 30-year fixed purchase mortgage is 6.683% on May 26, 2026, just as the spring homebuying season shifts into high gear.
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Mortgage Calculator
Use the calculator below to estimate your monthly mortgage payment.
MONTHLY PAYMENT CALCULATOR
YOUR RESULTS
| Loan Amount | $340,000 |
| Monthly Payment (P&I) | $2,228 |
| + Property Taxes | $393 |
| + Home Insurance | $124 |
| + HOA / PMI | $0 |
| Total Monthly Payment | $2,745 |
| Total Interest Paid | $462,037 |
| Total Cost of Loan | $802,037 |
| Loan Payoff Date | May 2056 |
Estimates are for illustrative purposes only and do not include taxes, insurance, or PMI unless specified above.
See Today's Mortgage Rates »Annual Mortgage Loan Award Winners
Ledgerly's loans experts reviewed and rated mortgage lending companies to make it easy for you to pick the best mortgage lender for your needs.
Summit Mortgage — Best Overall Lender
Summit took top honors for combining competitive rates, a streamlined online application, and standout customer service across all 50 states.
Read More »Heartland Home Loans — Best for First-Time Buyers
Heartland's low down-payment options and dedicated first-time buyer concierge make the path to homeownership less intimidating.
Read More »NorthStar Bank — Best for Refinancing
NorthStar offers some of the lowest refinance rates in our survey along with a no-closing-cost option that appeals to rate shoppers.
Read More »Mariner Funding — Best for VA Loans
Mariner specializes in serving veterans, with white-glove service and dedicated VA loan officers in every region.
Read More »Fifth Avenue Mortgage — Best for Jumbo Loans
Fifth Avenue's jumbo loan program delivers competitive pricing on high-balance loans with flexible underwriting.
Read More »Top Lenders by State
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What Is a Mortgage?
A mortgage is a loan used to buy or refinance a home. The home serves as collateral, meaning the lender can take the property if you fail to repay. Most mortgages are repaid in monthly installments over 15 to 30 years and include principal, interest, taxes and insurance.
What Is a Good Interest Rate?
A good mortgage rate is one that's competitive with current market averages and fits your financial profile. Rates vary based on loan type, credit score, down payment, and loan term. Shop multiple lenders to find the most competitive offer.
What Impacts Average Mortgage Rates?
Mortgage rates are influenced by broad economic factors including inflation, Federal Reserve policy, the bond market, and overall demand for housing. Your personal rate also depends on your credit, debt-to-income ratio, and the size of your down payment.
What Are the Different Types of Mortgages?
Common types include conventional loans, FHA loans, VA loans, USDA loans, and jumbo loans. Conventional loans aren't backed by the government; FHA, VA, and USDA loans are government-insured and often allow lower down payments or credit scores.
What Does It Mean to Refinance a Mortgage?
Refinancing means replacing your existing mortgage with a new one — often to secure a lower interest rate, reduce monthly payments, change loan terms, or tap home equity. Closing costs apply, so it's important to calculate your break-even point.
Should I Get Preapproved?
Yes. A preapproval letter from a lender shows sellers that you're a serious buyer and clarifies how much home you can afford. It also speeds up the closing process once you find a property.
How Do I Find a Mortgage Lender?
Compare offers from at least three lenders — banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Look beyond the interest rate to closing costs, lender fees, and customer reviews. A mortgage broker can help shop multiple lenders on your behalf.
Mortgage Refinancing
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