Is 790 a Good Credit Score?

By Ashley Kilroy

A 790 credit score is considered good. In fact, it falls into the very good category on the popular FICO® scale, and on the VantageScore scale, it’s even better, landing in the superprime or excellent range. Having a very good or exceptional credit score means you can usually qualify for many credit products, often with most favorable interest rates and terms.

Keep reading to find out what a 790 score really means and check out the credit cards, car loans, mortgages, and personal loans that might be available to you.

What Does a 790 Credit Score Mean?

First, it’s important to understand what a credit score actually is. Think of it as a credit report card for how well you’ve managed credit so far. In other words, it tells lenders how dependable you’ve been at paying back your debts.

There are different scoring models, like FICO and VantageScore, that lenders use to decide if you qualify for things like auto loans, personal loans, and credit cards. Your credit score also plays a big role in determining the interest rates and loan terms you’re offered.

FICO Scores are the most popular choice for lenders. Here’s how they categorize the score ranges:

•   800 to 850: Excellent

•   740 to 799: Very good

•   670 to 739: Good

•   580 to 669: Fair

•   300 to 579: Poor

A 790 FICO score falls within the very good range, which usually means you’ve done a great job managing credit and paying your bills on time. If there are any issues on your report, they’re probably small, like one missed payment, and happened a long time ago. For example, only about 15% of people with a 790 score have a missed payment that appears on their report, according to Experian®.

A very good credit score means banks and lenders see you as a top customer and often provide better lending options and terms. In addition, it’s worth noting that a credit score of 790 is considerably higher than the current national average credit score of 717.

What Else Can You Get With a 790 Credit Score?

If you are curious about what a 790 credit score can get you, you’re probably wondering about credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, or personal loans. A 790 FICO score puts you in a great position for financing approval, but it’s worth noting that your credit score is just one of several factors lenders consider when deciding on approval, interest rates, terms, and perks like credit card rewards.

Lenders also look at things like your employment history, income, and the balance you carry on revolving debt compared to how much money you bring in — which is known as your debt-to-income ratio. These factors give lenders a fuller picture of your creditworthiness.

Can I Get a Credit Card With a 790 Credit Score?

With a 790 credit score, you’ll likely qualify for most credit cards. The options available may include credit cards with cash back rewards, more favorable annual percentage rates (APRs), and other attractive benefits.

However, the lowest APRs and premium perks, like free checked bags on flights, travel insurance, or higher points-earning rates, are often reserved for folks with credit scores at or above 800.

For example, black credit cards, which can offer entry to luxe airport lounges and similar rewards, may only be available (sometimes exclusively by invitation) to those with the highest credit scores.

That said, your solid credit score can still open the door to plenty of great credit card options. Make sure to explore the different cards available to find one that fits your spending habits and needs.

Can I Get an Auto Loan With a 790 Credit Score?

A 790 credit score gives you a solid advantage when applying for an auto loan. According to Experian, the average credit score for financing a car is 717, so with a 790 score, you’re well above average. Lenders use your credit score to determine how likely you are to repay the loan. A higher score tells lenders you’re less of a risk, which can result in better interest rates for car loans and top-notch terms.

It’s also worth pointing out that lenders consider other factors, like your income, down payment, loan terms, and whether you’re buying a new or used car. New cars often come with lower rates because car manufacturers and banks compete to attract buyers, and there likely aren’t condition or wear-and-tear issues for the vehicle. On the other hand, used cars usually have higher rates since lenders don’t have the same incentives to lower them and the cars may be less reliable.

Can I Get a Mortgage With a 790 Credit Score?

It’s possible to qualify for a mortgage with a 790 credit score. You may even qualify for loans with highly competitive rates. In addition, a jumbo loan, which is larger than a typical conventional loan, may be within reach since the minimum credit score requirement is typically 700.

Keep in mind, though, that credit score requirements vary depending on the type of mortgage you’re applying for. For conventional loans and VA loans, you usually need a credit score of 620 or higher, while FHA loans require at least a 580 credit score to qualify.

That said, meeting the credit score requirement is just one part of the mortgage approval process. Lenders will also consider other factors, like how much you’re putting down on the home, your total debt, your income, and more. They do this to ensure you can afford the monthly payments and are less likely to default on the loan.

Can I Get a Personal Loan With a 790 Credit Score?

Personal loans are typically flexible unsecured loans that allow you to access a lump sum of cash for almost any purpose. For instance, you might use the money to pay off a large, unexpected medical bill or to finance a vacation.

One popular use for a personal loan is consolidating credit card debt. This can allow you to combine multiple high-interest credit lines into a convenient single installment loan. The interest rate is typically significantly lower on these loans than on credit cards. Expect to have a fixed rate and a term of one to seven years in most cases.

There’s no magic number needed in terms of credit scores when applying for a personal loan. That said, typically, if you have a credit score of at least 610, it improves your chances of qualifying, and a score in the 700s can help you secure better rates. With a 790 credit score, you’re in a strong position to get competitive rates and terms.

Remember that the higher your credit score, the less interest you may pay, which can save you money over the life of the loan. You can use a personal loan calculator to run the numbers and compare options.

The Takeaway

When it comes to mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, and even credit cards, a 790 credit score is likely to help you qualify for a line of credit or loan. While there’s always room for improvement, you’re already in a good position to secure competitive rates and perks. Just remember, your credit score isn’t the only thing lenders consider when approving your loan, so review all other requirements before moving forward.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

View your rate