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Best Affordable Places to Live in Alabama in 2025


Best Affordable Places to Live in Alabama in 2025

On this page:

    By Kim Franke-Folstad

    (Last Updated – 03/2025)

    It’s easy to understand why people are attracted to Alabama, with its beautiful beaches, delicious barbecue, college football dominance, and amazing history. But Alabama is also a good place if you’re looking for a state with affordable homes and a lower cost of living in general.

    Alabama’s cost of living ranks 5th lowest in the US, according to the most recent data, meaning there’s a good chance that you’ll find an affordable lifestyle if you head to this southern state. Read on to learn the details of some of the best cities and towns for families, young professionals, retirees, and more.

    Alabamans pay some of the lowest property taxes in the country. And unemployment in Alabama, which has hovered just above 2% for most of 2023, is also lower than the national average.

    Best Places to Live in Alabama

    Whether you’re looking for a buzzy downtown vibe, a cool college town, or an historic waterfront city, you should be able to find your fit in Alabama. There are plenty of educational, cultural, and just plain fun attractions to enjoy.

    Wondering where you can get the most of what Alabama has to offer at a manageable cost? Read on for our roundup of some of the best places to live in Alabama.


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    Best Affordable Places to Live in Alabama

    According to the MERIC (Missouri Economic Research and Information Center) Index, which ranks the cost of living by state, Alabama has a 12% lower cost of living than the U.S. average. That makes it more affordable than most Southern states (with the exception of Mississippi).

    Here are some of the most affordable places in Alabama to live.

    1. Mobile

    Mobile, Alabama

    Photo credit: iStock/Cavan Images

    If you’re searching for a city that truly looks and feels “Southern,” Mobile is a place to check out. History buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, theater fans, and more will find plenty to do in Mobile. And yet, despite all the city has to offer, the cost of living is low, and homes are relatively inexpensive.

    Population: 182,595

    Median Household Income: $51,090

    Cost of Living: 96% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,350

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.64

    2. Birmingham

    Birmingham, Alabama

    Photo credit: iStock/SeanPavonePhoto

    Birmingham is a popular destination for its history, but you might choose to live in this dynamic city if you’re into the arts, sports, or if you love festivals. The city has a wide range of home prices, and affordable homes are available. Plus the overall cost of living in Birmingham is low enough that you might be able to put more toward a house payment than you would in some other areas.

    Population: 196,644

    Median Household Income: $44,376

    Cost of Living: 91% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,200

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.84

    3. Montgomery

    Montgomery, Alabama

    Photo credit: iStock/Kruck20

    Montgomery is yet another Alabama city steeped in history. You’ll also find a lovely and lively waterfront entertainment district that offers something for just about anyone. And the city is just a car ride away from the beach, and Atlanta, and any other hotspots you want to visit. Plus the cost of living in Montgomery is much lower than the national average, so homebuyers likely won’t have to struggle to find a place they can afford.

    Population: 195,287

    Median Household Income: $55,687

    Cost of Living: 84% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,250

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.52

    Best Places to Live in Alabama for Families

    Looking for a family-friendly place to live? You’ll find it in one of these cities, along with good schools, abundant recreation opportunities, and affordable housing costs.

    1. Madison

    Madison is a growing Huntsville suburb that’s known for its family focus. You can hang out in town, enjoy the great outdoors, or take a short trip to the city for more fun. The cost of living in Madison is higher than the overall cost of living in Alabama, but it’s lower than the national average.

    Population: 60,854

    Median Household Income: $131,436

    Cost of Living: 83% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,870

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.81

    2. Meadowbrook

    If you’re looking for a home in the ‘burbs of Birmingham, Meadowbrook could be for you. Home costs may be higher than in many parts of Alabama, but a reasonable commute will make this spot attractive. Families also find the good schools here appealing.

    Newbie buyers can check out first-time homebuyer programs in Alabama to see what kind of help might be available.

    Population: 9,688

    Median Household Income: $145,464

    Cost of Living: 83% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,413

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.99

    Recommended: Mortgage Prequalification vs Preapproval

    3. Helena

    Helena, Alabama

    Photo credit: iStock/JRainesWDE

    Helena has a rural, small-town feel. Whether you’re a hiker, a history buff, a music fan, or even a scuba diver, you can find plenty of activities to keep your family busy without dropping a bundle.

    You may want to explore different types of mortgage loans to see which one might be the best option for your home-buying needs.

    Population: 22,117

    Median Household Income: $109,590

    Cost of Living: 83% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,683

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.12

    💡 Quick Tip: Lowering your monthly payments with a mortgage refinance from SoFi can help you find money to pay down other debt, build your rainy-day fund, or put more into your 401(k).

    Best Places to Live in Alabama for Young Adults

    Alabama has plenty to offer young adults, including vibrant cities, entertainment venues, college sports, and cultural attractions.

    1. Tuscaloosa

    Tuscaloosa, Alabama

    Photo credit: iStock/traveler1116

    Looking for a beautiful community with a vibrant nightlife? You may want to put Tuscaloosa on your list. The city, which is the home of the University of Alabama, offers sports, culture, education, and more. And it’s affordable, which can be a real plus if you’re a first-time homebuyer.

    Population: 111,338

    Median Household Income: $48,536

    Cost of Living: 86% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,500

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.48

    2. Daphne

    Daphne, Alabama

    Photo credit: iStock/George Dodd

    Young adults who enjoy beach life and socializing will like Daphne, which is located on Mobile Bay and has a lively nightlife and lots of outdoor activities. Home costs in Daphne are surprisingly affordable for a place that’s so close to the water.

    Homes in Daphne are not inexpensive, and prices are rising. But it may be easier for frugal house hunters to qualify for a mortgage in some neighborhoods more than others. With its proximity to the beach and other amenities, you might decide living in Daphne is right for you

    Population: 30,321

    Median Household Income: $86,479

    Cost of Living: 88% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,900

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.69

    3. Vestavia Hills

    Vestavia Hills, Alabama

    Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons/Sharon Phelan Evans , Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported

    Conveniently located between Birmingham and Hoover, the suburb of Vestavia Hills has plenty to offer — including shopping, coffee shops, restaurants, and several wineries. Home prices can be high, though, so keep that in mind if you’re drawn to this area.

    Vestavia Hills is a charming community, but you may have to do a little legwork to find a home that’s in your price range. It might be helpful to go through the mortgage preapproval process before you begin your search, so you’ll know what you can afford.

    Population: 38,020

    Median Household Income: $129,171

    Cost of Living: 95% of U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,895

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.99

    Best Places to Live in Alabama for Retirees

    With its warm climate, community-oriented towns, and affordable housing prices, Alabama can be an inviting place to spend your retirement years. These are some of the best places to live in Alabama for retirees.

    1. Prichard

    Prichard, Alabama

    Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons/Michael
    Rivera
    , Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International

    Prichard is a suburb of Mobile, which means you can get all the advantages of living near a big city without having to deal with the traffic every day. Home costs are low here, even though it’s near Mobile Bay and several other more expensive communities.

    Bargain hunters, get ready! The average Prichard home value is approximately $51,000, and the area’s home price-to-income ratio sits at just 1.45.

    Population: 18,816

    Median Household Income: $35,331

    Cost of Living: 86% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $995

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 1.45

    2. Midfield

    Midfield is a community-oriented suburb just a few miles south of Birmingham. It’s an easy place for retirees to settle into, with convenient grocery stores and churches, and plenty of outdoor activities.

    Population: 5,101

    Median Household Income: $51,776

    Cost of Living: 87% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,200

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 1.53

    3. Tuskegee

    Tuskegee, Alabama

    Photo credit: iStock/sshepard

    City slickers, nature lovers, and history buffs will find something to like in Tuskegee. It’s anchored by the well-known university, which brings events to campus. You can enjoy all the town has to offer and stay on budget thanks to affordable home prices.

    Population: 8,765

    Median Household Income: $38,160

    Cost of Living: 85% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $592

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.03

    Best Places to Live in Alabama Near the Water

    If you’re looking for property on or near the water, Alabama has not just the ocean, but also lakes to choose from.

    1. Gulf Shores

    Gulf Shores, Alabama

    Photo credit: iStock/Veni

    Because it’s on the beach, people typically think of Gulf Shores as a vacation spot. But it can be a lovely place to live year-round. There are lots of shops, restaurants, and a state park to enjoy. Some neighborhoods are more expensive than others, so if this is your target area, be ready for a high monthly payment, whether you plan to rent or buy.

    Gulf Shores is known for fun by the beach — not necessarily for low home prices. But if you want to live by the ocean, a home purchase or rental in this coastal community could cost you much less than a waterfront home in many other states. And a jumbo mortgage loan could be worth exploring if you find your dream house.

    Population: 16,850

    Median Household Income: $73,873

    Cost of Living: 96% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,250

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 6.10

    2. Guntersville

    Guntersville, Alabama

    Photo credit: iStock/HildeAnna

    If you’re looking for waterfront property but can’t afford to be near the ocean, Guntersville could be a worthy alternative. It sits on Alabama’s largest lake, and along with fishing, sailing, and other watersports, residents can enjoy the town’s museums, festivals, and the theater.

    As your real estate hunt proceeds, if you decide to target this area, the resources in a home loan help center might be helpful as you shop for the right mortgage.

    Population: 9,028

    Median Household Income: $67,448

    Cost of Living: 80.5% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,800

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.21

    3. Alexander City

    Alexander City, Alabama

    Photo credit: Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM , Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.0

    Alexander City is a vibrant and affordable community that sits on the shores of Lake Marshall. It has lovely water views, along with shops, restaurants, museums, and parks, so there’s always something to do.

    Population: 14,470

    Median Household Income: $42,367

    Cost of Living: 81% of U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $750

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.09


    The Takeaway

    If you’re drawn to the idea of living in the South and all it has to offer, Alabama could be a “sweet home” for you. As you begin your house hunt, you’ll find that each community has a little something different to offer, and home prices can vary significantly from one neighborhood to the next. However, with a cost of living below the national average, you may be able to snag an affordable lifestyle in many parts of the state.

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    FAQ

    Where is the most affordable place to live in Alabama?

    Many areas in Alabama offer extremely affordable home and rental prices. Prichard, Helena, and Montgomery have some of the lowest home price-to-income ratios.

    Where is the nicest place to live in Alabama?

    Everyone has their own idea of “nice,” but the cities and towns near Mobile Bay are among the most popular places to live in Alabama. They also tend to be the most expensive.

    What is the least expensive county in Alabama?

    Covington and Madison counties have some of the least expensive homes in the state. However, the cost of living in Alabama is below the national average, so you may be able to find relative bargains in many locations.


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    *SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.


    Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


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    Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.
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    Qualifying for the reward requires using a real estate agent that participates in HomeStory’s broker to broker agreement to complete the real estate buy and/or sell transaction. You retain the right to negotiate buyer and or seller representation agreements. Upon successful close of the transaction, the Real Estate Agent pays a fee to HomeStory Real Estate Services. All Agents have been independently vetted by HomeStory to meet performance expectations required to participate in the program. If you are currently working with a REALTOR®, please disregard this notice. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other REALTORS®. A reward is not available where prohibited by state law, including Alaska, Iowa, Louisiana and Missouri. A reduced agent commission may be available for sellers in lieu of the reward in Mississippi, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Oregon and should be discussed with the agent upon enrollment. No reward will be available for buyers in Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Oregon. A commission credit may be available for buyers in lieu of the reward in New Jersey and must be discussed with the agent upon enrollment and included in a Buyer Agency Agreement with Rebate Provision. Rewards in Kansas and Tennessee are required to be delivered by gift card.

    HomeStory will issue the reward using the payment option you select and will be sent to the client enrolled in the program within 45 days of HomeStory Real Estate Services receipt of settlement statements and any other documentation reasonably required to calculate the applicable reward amount. Real estate agent fees and commissions still apply. Short sale transactions do not qualify for the reward. Depending on state regulations highlighted above, reward amount is based on sale price of the home purchased and/or sold and cannot exceed $9,500 per buy or sell transaction. Employer-sponsored relocations may preclude participation in the reward program offering. SoFi is not responsible for the reward.

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    Investment Tax Guide

    Investment Tax Guide

    Investment Tax Resources:
    Your Complete Guide to Tax-Smart Strategies

    Understanding how taxes impact your investments can be challenging. This resource hub brings together helpful articles on topics like cost basis, tax-loss harvesting, and tax-efficient investing. Whether you’re looking for ways to lower your tax bill or just want to learn the basics, these resources can help.

    Terms to know:







    Asset allocation

    The strategy of dividing investments among different asset classes (e.g. stocks, bonds, etc.) to help manage risk.

    Learn more: Asset Allocation by Age: 20s and 30s, 40s and 50s, 60s

    Budget

    A plan for managing income and expenses to meet financial goals.

    Learn more: How to Make a Budget in 5 Steps

    Credit score

    A numerical representation of your creditworthiness, based on your credit history.

    Learn more: How To Check Your Credit Score for Free

    Debt-to-income ratio

    A measure of how much of your income goes toward paying debts, which is used to assess financial health.

    Learn more: Why Your Debt to Income Ratio Matters

    Emergency fund

    Savings set aside for unexpected expenses or financial emergencies.

    Learn more: How to Build an Emergency Fund in 6 Steps

    Estate planning

    The process of arranging how your assets will be distributed after your death, including wills and trusts.

    Learn more: Does Everyone Need an Estate Plan?

    Net worth

    The total value of your assets minus your liabilities, indicating overall financial health.

    Learn more: How to Calculate Your Net Worth

    Basics of investment taxes.

    Investment taxes can be confusing, but understanding the basics can help. These articles cover key topics like cost basis, capital gains, and taxable accounts to give you a solid foundation.

    “Retirement plans are tax-advantaged, meaning that you won’t pay capital gains taxes as the money grows. This is the primary benefit of using a retirement account to invest in your 20s, 30s, or at any age.”


    Brian Walsh, professional CFP® at SoFi

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    Tax strategies for investors.

    There are ways to reduce the taxes you owe on your investments. These articles cover strategies like tax-loss harvesting and tax-efficient investing to help you keep more of your returns.

    “Not all investment types generate the same type of taxation. When deploying a tax-efficient investment strategy, it’s crucial to know how an investment is going to be taxed.”


    Brian Walsh, professional CFP® at SoFi

    Taxes on different investment types.

    Different types of investments are taxed in different ways. These articles break down how mutual funds, dividends, and ETFs are taxed so you know what to expect.

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    Is 520 a Good Credit Score?


    Is 520 a Good Credit Score?

    520 credit score

    On this page:

      By Melissa Brock

      A credit score of 520 is considered poor and is far below the average American’s credit score of 715. You may find it a challenge to get approved for a loan or credit card with that score. However, it’s important to know that a poor credit score isn’t permanent — you can raise it.

      Read on for more information about what a 520 credit score means, how it impacts your chances of getting loans and credit cards, and ways to build your score.

      Key Points

      •   A credit score of 520 is poor, below the average American score of 715.

      •   Challenges include difficulty in loan and credit card approvals, with higher interest rates and fees.

      •   Improving a 520 score involves on-time payments, low credit utilization, and maintaining old accounts.

      •   Disputing inaccuracies and becoming an authorized user on a loved one’s credit card may help boost your score.

      •   A poor credit score limits borrowing options and may require putting down a deposit or adding a cosigner.

      What Does a 520 Credit Score Mean?

      Before we dive into whether 520 is a good or bad credit score, it’s important to understand what a credit score is. This three-digit number communicates to lenders how well you’ve used debt in the past and how likely you are to repay a loan on time. Your score is calculated based on data found in your credit reports, which are created by the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

      Certain pieces of information on your credit report carry more weight than others when it comes to your credit score. The information that affects your score typically includes:

      •   Your payment history

      •   Outstanding balances

      •   Length of your credit history

      •   Applications for new credit accounts

      •   Your credit mix

      A credit score is categorized from poor to excellent, and credit score ranges vary depending on the scoring model used. In this article, we’ll focus on FICO®, which is used in 90% of lending decisions. FICO Scores are as follows:

      •   300-579: Poor

      •   580-669: Fair

      •   670-739: Good

      •   740-799: Very good

      •   800-850: Excellent

      As you can see, a 520 credit score is considered a bad credit score, and it falls into the lowest range.

      If you want to repair your credit profile, a good place to start is to check your credit score. You can ask your bank, Experian, credit card company or lender, or a credit counselor if you can view your score at no charge. You may also have access to this information if you have a money management app.

      Recommended: FICO Score vs. Credit Score: What’s the Difference?

      How to Build Your Credit Score

      Building up your credit score takes time, but it can help ensure you’ll pay less in borrowing costs. Here are some actions you can take:

      •   Make on-time payments: Making timely payments consistently is one of the most important ways to boost your score.

      •   Avoid applying for multiple credit cards or loans in a short time frame: Every time you apply for credit, your lender will run a hard inquiry. Each inquiry dings your credit score by a few points, but the dip is temporary. Instead, ask your lender if they offer prequalification. It typically requires a soft credit check, but that won’t impact your score.

      •   Pay down revolving account balances: Be mindful of how much of your available credit you’re using, also referred to as your utilization rate. A good rule of thumb is to try to keep your rate below 30%.

      •   Don’t close old accounts: Closing older, more established credit cards can hurt your credit score, so consider keeping those accounts open — even after you pay off your debts.

      •   Diversify credit: Managing different types of credit, such as a student loan, auto loan, or mortgage, can take your credit score up a notch. But don’t take on more credit just to build it, especially if you have a low credit score.

      •   Dispute inaccuracies: Check your credit report regularly and look for inaccuracies. If you find an error, dispute it.

      •   Become an authorized user: A family member or other loved one can add you as an authorized user on their credit card to boost your score. Note that the account should have a history of on-time payments and a low credit utilization rate.

      What Else Can You Get with a 520 Credit Score?

      Yes, a credit score of 520 isn’t great. But will it prevent you from qualifying for credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, and personal loans? Let’s dive in.

      Can I Get a Credit Card with a 520 Credit Score?

      The good news: There’s no minimum score required to get a credit card. The not-so-good news: With a 520 credit score, you may have to pay higher-than-average rates and fees in order to qualify. Another option is to put down a deposit to obtain your card.

      “Putting down a deposit” means you get a secured credit card. The deposit is usually equal to your credit limit, and it acts as collateral when you make a purchase. The lender can take your deposit if you fail to make your payments on time or if you default on your loan.

      After successfully using a secured credit card, you ​​may eventually graduate to an unsecured credit card that doesn’t require a deposit. They’re more difficult to qualify for than secured cards, and credit card companies screen applicants more heavily to ensure you’ll be a good borrower.

      Once you’re able to boost your credit score, you may be able to qualify for a credit card consolidation loan. (Lenders generally want borrowers to have a score of 670 or higher, but there’s no minimum score to get approved.) These types of loans can be useful if you want to streamline bill paying and work on paying down balances on high-interest credit cards.

      Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 520 Credit Score?

      Is a 520 credit score car loan possible? Maybe. According to Experian data from 2024, just 14% of borrowers with a subprime score (501-600 credit score) qualified for an auto loan.

      Typically, you need a 600 credit score to get a traditional auto loan, though you could find lenders that offer bad credit auto loans. However, you may pay more in interest over time for your auto loan with a lower credit score. The average average annual percentage rate (APR) for borrowers with a 520 credit score is 13.00%, per Experian. Those with a credit score of 781 and higher had an average APR of 5.08%.

      With a credit score of 520, you might find it easier to get a car loan if you add a cosigner. While you both are responsible for paying back the loan, the cosigner doesn’t own your car.

      Recommended: What Is the Responsibility of a Cosigner on a Loan?

      Can I Get a Mortgage with a 520 Credit Score?

      While lending criteria varies by lender, most prefer that borrowers have a 620 credit score or higher. That said, the type of loan you’re seeking also plays a role.

      •   Conventional loan: A conventional loan is not backed by the federal government, and you typically need to have a 620 or 660 credit score to qualify for a one.

      •   FHA loan: This type of mortgage loan is backed by the Federal Housing Administration, meaning that it insures mortgages for single and multifamily homes. You can qualify for an FHA loan with a credit score as low as 500 as long as you have a 10% down payment. Otherwise, the minimum is generally a credit score of 580 and a 3.5% down payment.

      •   VA loan: These mortgages are backed by the Veterans Administration (VA), a government agency. The VA guarantees a portion of the loan, which enables you to receive a more favorable interest rate. There’s no official credit score minimum requirement, but lenders generally want to see a credit score that’s at least in the 620-640 range.

      •   USDA loans: In order to qualify for these loans, borrowers must meet certain requirements. There’s no official credit score minimum requirement, but lenders generally prefer borrowers to have a minimum 640 credit score.

      Talk to your bank or credit union to learn more about how to qualify for a mortgage loan and learn more about the average credit score to buy a house.

      Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 520 Credit Score?

      Personal loans are usually installment loans that come from banks, credit unions, and private lenders that you repay in equal monthly payments until you fully pay off your loan. You may use your personal loan for medical bills, home or car repairs, or other large expenses.

      Many lenders require you to have a minimum credit score of 600-640 to qualify for a personal loan, but you may find personal loans with a 520 credit score. However, in those cases, you’ll likely pay a higher interest rate. Use our personal loan calculator to determine how much your monthly payments would be based on the loan amount you’re seeking and the terms and rates you’re offered.

      The Takeaway

      Is a 520 credit score bad? Unfortunately, it falls in the “poor” category. However, you still may be able to qualify for certain loans and credit cards, though you may not qualify for the best terms. If possible, focus on building your credit score by making on-time payments, keeping your utilization rate below 30%, and leaving older accounts open. Doing so can help boost your score and increase the odds you’re approved for a credit card or loan.

      Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.


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

      View your rate

      SoFi Loan Products
      SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


      Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

      Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

      Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.



      Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.



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      Double Claw (TGL) T&Cs

      OFFICIAL RULES

      Last Updated: March 17, 2025

      PARTICIPATING IN THE SOFI INVEST CLAW PROMOTION (“PROMOTION”) CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THESE OFFICIAL RULES. BY PARTICIPATING IN THE PROMOTION, YOU REPRESENT AND WARRANT YOU MEET THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS STATED HEREIN AND ACKNOWLEDGE THAT FAILURE TO MEET ALL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR TERMINATE THIS PROMOTION AT ANY TIME.

      THIS PROMOTION IS NOT SPONSORED, ENDORSED OR ADMINISTERED BY APPLE® OR GOOGLE®.

      PROMOTION PERIOD: This Promotion is until April 1, 2025 at 11:59 PM ET.

      ELIGIBILITY: Participants must open a new SoFi Active Invest account and fund it with at least $50 within 30 days of opening the account. Existing SoFi Active Invest account holders are not eligible for this Promotion. The probability of participant receiving $2,000 is 0.028%. See full terms and conditions.

      The Promotion is open only to legal residents of the 50 United States ( and the District of Columbia), who are age 18 or older (or of legal age in their state of residence) who successfully register for a new Active SoFi Invest Brokerage account and fund such account with at least $50 of settled funds within thirty (30) days of utilizing their one-time electronic claw “grab” as defined below (each, a “Participant”). For clarity, no rewards will be granted for persons who do not have at least $50 of settled funds in their account within thirty (30) days. As a reminder, it can take up to five (5) business days for funds to “settle” after a transfer has been initiated. Employees of Social Finance, LLC (“SoFi” or “Sponsor”) and its, subsidiaries, affiliates, advertising, public relations and promotion agencies or any company or individual involved with the development or execution of the Promotion (collectively, the “Promotion Entities”), and their immediate family members and individuals living in the same household with any Promotion Entities , whether related or not, are not eligible to participate. The Promotion is governed by U.S. law and subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations. Void where prohibited by law.

      HOW TO ENTER: Download the free App or visit SoFi.com and follow the onscreen instructions to create an Active SoFi Invest Brokerage Account to obtain access to participate in the Promotion. Upon setting up your account, a Participant will have the opportunity to enter by engaging an electronic claw to “grab” a promotion piece. Once “grabbed,” the Participant’s screen will display a dollar reward amount from the possible amounts identified in the section below, which will be converted to fractional shares (outlined below) of the Participant’s choosing, and deposited in the Participant’s Active SoFi Invest Brokerage Account (the “reward”). If the Participant does not select a fractional share in which to invest the reward amount identified, the Sponsor will select a company to invest the reward in for the Participant. A Participant’s receipt of a reward is subject to that Participant’s eligibility and verification by Sponsor and/or its agent including verification of account funding with at least $50 worth of settled funds within thirty (30) days of utilizing their one-time claw “grab.” A screenshot is not proof or evidence of winning a reward. Limit: one (1) claw “grab” per Participant. Participants are solely responsible for costs associated with accessing the internet to participate in the Promotion, including, without limitation, cellular and WiFi costs.

      A Participant’s receipt of a Prize is subject to that Participant’s eligibility and verification by Sponsor and/or its agent.

      FRACTIONAL SHARE: During market hours, fractional orders will be routed to the market immediately. Outside of market hours orders will be aggregated and executed in the morning trade window of the next business day when the market opens. Orders are sent in the order received. There may be system delays from receipt of your order until execution. Market conditions may adversely impact execution prices.

      AVAILABLE REWARDS: The following chart lists the total amount of rewards available to be claimed by participating in the Promotion:




      Value Odds
      $2,000.00 0.028%
      $200.00 1.662%
      $50.00 3.324%
      $20.00 9.498%
      $10.00 85.488%


      Each Participant shall have the opportunity to select only one promotion piece and only the reward identified on the promotion piece shall be deposited in the Participant’s account. The Participant’s fractional shares will appear in their account within fourteen (14) days of meeting all eligibility requirements described above. Once a Participant selects a promotion piece, that piece will be replaced so that all subsequent Participants will have the same opportunity and odds of selecting the rewards identified above. Participants will never compete against each other and one Participant’s selection of a promotion piece will not affect another Participant’s chances of selecting the same reward amount. Not all promotion pieces will be selected and awarded.

      Once rewards have been converted into shares, and credited to your Active SoFi Invest Brokerage Account, they are subject to market risk and may lose value. To learn more about Invest Accounts please visit the following link: https://www.sofi.com/invest/

      No substitution or transfer of any reward to a third party is permitted and rewards cannot be redeemed for cash value, except by Sponsor, who reserves the right in its sole discretion to substitute a reward of equal or greater value. If applicable, all investment gains and losses, taxes, fees, federal, state, local or other expenses relating to the use, acceptance and possession of any reward are the sole responsibility of each winner.

      Except where prohibited by law, participating in the Promotion and acceptance of a reward constitutes permission for Sponsor to use each Participant’s name, reward won, hometown, likeness, video tape, photographs, and statements for purposes of advertising, promotion and publicity (including online posting) in any and all media now or hereafter known throughout the world in perpetuity, without additional compensation, notification or permission.

      CONDITIONS ON CLAIMING A REWARD: No rewards will be granted for persons who do not have at least $50 of settled funds in their account within thirty (30) days of utilizing their one-time electronic claw “grab.” Participants are responsible for notifying Sponsor of changes in their email addresses or mobile number(s). An IRS Form 1099-MISC will be filed with the IRS in the name of any Participant who selects and receives a reward valued at $600.00 or more.

      CONSENT AND RELEASE: To the fullest extent possible by law, Participants themselves, and on behalf of their respective heirs, executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors and assigns (“Releasing Parties”), agree to release, defend and hold harmless the Promotion Entities from any and all actions, causes of action, suits, dues, agreements, promises, lost profits, indirect or direct damages, consequential damages, incidental damages, punitive or exemplary damages, judgments, extent, executions, claims and demands whatsoever, in law, admiralty or equity, whether known or unknown, foreseen or unforeseen, against Promotion Entities which any one or more of the Releasing Parties ever had, now have or hereafter can, shall or may have which in any way arise out of or result from Participant’s participation, acceptance and use or misuse of a reward. Sponsor is not responsible for any mechanical or human error or failure or for any typographical or other error in the printing, or operation of the promotion pieces and the administration of the Promotion or in the display of any reward. In the event Sponsor is prevented from continuing with the Promotion as contemplated herein by any event beyond its control, or otherwise, including but not limited to fire, flood, earthquake, explosion, labor dispute or strike, act of God or public enemy, satellite or equipment failure, riot or civil disturbance, terrorist threat or activity, war (declared or undeclared) or any federal, state, or local government law, order, or regulation, or order of any court, or other cause, Sponsor shall have the right to modify or terminate the Promotion. Furthermore, the Sponsor reserves the right to terminate the Promotion if it becomes technically corrupted (including if a computer virus or system malfunction inalterably impairs its ability to conduct the Promotion or for any other reason in its sole discretion. Participants assume all liability for any injury, including death or damage caused or claimed to be caused, by participation in this Promotion or use or redemption of a reward.

      ARBITRATION: This Promotion shall be governed by and interpreted under the laws of the State of California, U.S.A., without regard to its conflicts of laws provisions. All Participants hereby agree that any and all disputes, claims, causes of action, or controversies (“Claims”) arising out of or in connection with the operation or participation in this Promotion, including the downloading and use of the App and the SoFi Account and selecting promotion pieces in the Promotion shall be resolved exclusively by mandatory binding arbitration pursuant to this provision and the code of procedures of either the National Arbitration Forum (“NAF”) or the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”), as selected by the Participant. IF ARBITRATION IS CHOSEN BY ANY PARTY WITH RESPECT TO A CLAIM, NEITHER PARTY WILL HAVE THE RIGHT TO LITIGATE THAT CLAIM IN COURT OR HAVE A JURY TRIAL ON THAT CLAIM. FURTHER, NEITHER SPONSOR NOR PARTICIPANT WILL HAVE THE RIGHT TO PARTICIPATE IN A REPRESENTATIVE CAPACITY ON BEHALF OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC OR OTHER PERSONS SIMILARLY SITUATED, OR AS A MEMBER OF ANY CLASS OF CLAIMANTS PERTAINING TO ANY CLAIM SUBJECT TO ARBITRATION. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH BELOW, THE ARBITRATOR’S DECISION WILL BE FINAL AND BINDING. OTHER RIGHTS THAT PARTICIPANTS WOULD HAVE IF PARTICIPANT WENT TO COURT ALSO MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE IN ARBITRATION. ANY CLAIMS, JUDGMENTS AND/OR AWARDS SHALL BE LIMITED TO ACTUAL OUT-OF-POCKET AND PROVABLE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH PARTICIPATING IN THIS PROMOTION, BUT IN NO EVENT SHALL SUCH JUDGEMENT OR AWARD EXCEED THE ACTUAL COST OF A PARTICIPANT TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PROMOTION. ENTRANT HEREBY WAIVES ANY RIGHTS OR CLAIMS TO ATTORNEY’S FEES, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ENTRANT, WHETHER FORESEEABLE OR NOT AND WHETHER BASED ON NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE. The arbitrator’s authority to resolve Claims is limited to Claims between Sponsor and Participant alone, and the arbitrator’s authority to make awards is limited to awards to Sponsor and Participant alone. Furthermore, claims brought by either party against the other may not be joined or consolidated in arbitration with Claims brought by or against any third party, unless agreed to in writing by all parties. No arbitration award or decision will have any preclusive effect as to issues or claims in any dispute with anyone who is not a named party to the arbitration. Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement and without waiving either party’s right to appeal such decision, should any portion of this provision be deemed invalid or unenforceable, then the entire provision (other than this sentence) shall not apply.

      GENERAL: The Sponsor is not responsible for error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay in operations or transmission, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to or alterations of the Promotion, or for technical, network, telephone equipment, electronic, computer, hardware or software malfunctions of any kind, or inaccurate transmission of or failure to access the App and Promotion by any Participant on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website or any combination thereof. Sponsor reserves the right at its sole discretion to disqualify any individual that tampers or attempts to tamper with the operation of the Promotion or violates these Official Rules. LEGAL WARNING: ANY ATTEMPT BY AN INDIVIDUAL, WHETHER OR NOT AN PARTICIPANT, TO INTERFERE WITH THE OPERATION OF THE PROMOTION, IS A VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL & CIVIL LAWS AND SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK DAMAGES AND DILIGENTLY PURSUE ALL REMEDIES AGAINST ANY SUCH INDIVIDUAL TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.

      PRIVACY: The information a Participant provides when registering with the App and applying for a SoFi Account to participate in the Promotion may be provided to promotional partners which may result in Participants being contacted by the Sponsor and/or any promotional partners with promotional offers. Information provided by Participants to participate in this Promotion is subject to Sponsor’s privacy policy located at www.sofi.com/privacy-policy.

      SPONSOR: Social Finance, LLC, 234 1st Street, San Francisco, CA 94105.

      THE SPONSOR’S DECISIONS ARE FINAL AND BINDING IN ALL MATTERS RELATED TO THE PROMOTION.

      THIS PROMOTION IS NOT SPONSORED, ENDORSED, ADMINISTERED BY OR ASSOCIATED WITH APPLE®, META (FACEBOOK/INSTAGRAM) LINKEDIN OR X (TWITTER). BY PARTICIPATING, YOU AGREE TO RELEASE THESE PLATFORMS FROM ALL CLAIMS AND LIABILITY RELATED TO THIS PROMOTION.

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      SoFi Active Invest ACAT Promotion

      SoFi Active Invest ACAT Promotion

      The SoFi Active Invest ACAT 1% Match Promotion (“Offer”) is governed by the following Terms & Conditions:

      1. Offer – Subject to these terms and conditions, eligible customers earn a 1% Match (the “Match”) when transferring at least $20,000 in investments from another brokerage firm into a SoFi Invest Active Brokerage taxable or Active retirement account (Traditional, Roth, or SEP IRA) with SoFi Securities LLC (“SoFi”) during the Offer Period (defined below). The Match is calculated based on the total net dollar amount of incoming settled transfers from another brokerage to an individual SoFi Active Invest during the Offer Period less any outflows or withdrawals, capped at $5,000,000 (“Net Transfers”) and maintained through the end of December 31, 2025 (the “Holding Period”). The Match will be paid in cash after the Holding Period in January 2026 and based on a calculation of 1% of Net Transfers as of the end of the Holding Period End Date, and is contingent on Net Transfers being maintained throughout the Holding Period. The Match will be paid into the same account you transferred investments into. Transfers into multiple Active Brokerage taxable or Active retirement accounts may not be combined to total $20,000.

      SoFi also reserves the right to change or terminate this promotion at any time without notice.

      Example 1: If you transfer $20,000 into your Brokerage IRA account during the Offer Period, and do not make any additional contributions or withdrawals for the rest of the year, you will be matched 1% equaling $200.

      Example 2: If you transfer $40,000 into your Brokerage taxable account during the Offer Period, and make an outflow of $5,000 before the Holding Period End Date, you will be matched 1% of $35,000 equaling $350.

      Example 3: If you transfer $20,000 into your Brokerage taxable account during the Offer Period, and make an additional transfer of $5,000 during the Holding Period, you will be matched 1% of $20,000 equaling $200.

      2. Offer Period – The Offer Period will run from March 28, 2025 – April 17, 2025. This period may be extended at SoFi’s discretion.

      3. Eligibility – The Offer is available to customers who have (1) an existing Active Investing Account in good standing or have successfully opened an account during the Offer Period through SoFi Securities LLC; (2) have successfully transferred at least $20,000 in assets via ACAT during the Offer Period; and (3) maintain an open SoFi Invest account with Net transfers of at least $20,000 through the end of the Holding Period. Only assets received through an ACAT transfer are eligible. The transferred assets must be settled before the end of the Offer Period to be eligible for the Match

      4. Limitations – This Offer may not be combined with any other offer. The Match will not exceed $50,000 (equivalent to 1% of up to $5,000,000 in Net Transfers).

      SoFi does not accept cryptocurrency transfers, and does not accept stocks that trade on OTC, Pink Sheets, and/or most low-priced securities. Check the Invest platform for any associated stocks you may be interested in transferring – if they appear in SoFi Invest, they are eligible to be transferred.

      If SoFi suspects that there may have been fraudulent activity, or a violation of these Terms & Conditions in connection with the Offer, or a violation of the customer agreement, SoFi reserves the right to either decline to grant the Match, or to rescind the Offer. SoFi reserves the right to liquidate any security to make up for any shortfall. SoFi reserves the right to delay granting the Match if there are indications of fraud or a violation of these Terms.

      5. Not a Recommendation – The Offer is not a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security, nor is the Offer a recommendation or endorsement of any investment strategy. The Offer is not a recommendation that a customer rollover or transfer assets into a SoFi Active Invest account, nor a recommendation for any specific account type. There are many factors that an investor should consider before initiating an ACAT transfer – an investor should consult with a qualified advisor prior to initiating any transfer of assets

      Customers that wish to participate in the Offer are acknowledging the offer is not investment advice and are participating in the Offer voluntarily.

      6. Taxes – Each investor’s tax situation is unique and SoFi does not give tax advice. Investors should consult a qualified tax advisor prior to making any transfer as sales may affect your tax situation.

      The value of the reward you receive may constitute taxable income. SoFi Securities LLC may issue a Form 1099 (or other appropriate form) to you that reflects the value of the Match. Please consult your tax advisor. SoFi Securities LLC and its affiliates and associates do not provide tax advice.

      7. Other Disclosures – SoFi reserves the right to change the Offer terms or terminate the offer at any time without notice. The offer is not transferable, saleable, or valid in conjunction with certain other offers and is available to U.S. residents only. The Offer is only available for personal use, and may not be used for commercial purposes. Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation. Any disputes regarding this Offer shall be resolved in accordance with the customer’s brokerage agreement with SoFi and FINRA arbitration rules.


      INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED, ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED, AND MAY LOSE VALUE

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