where are mortgage rates today and what drives them

Snapshot of current trends

Mortgage rates today are hovering near recent averages, nudging up and down with daily market moves. Lenders quote slightly different numbers, but the pattern is consistent: strong economic data and sticky inflation tend to push costs higher, while cooling growth and calmer markets bring relief.

Why rates shift intraday

Rates track the 10-year Treasury and broader bond demand. When investors seek safety, yields fall and home loans often get cheaper. Conversely, hot jobs reports, a surprise Federal Reserve comment, or rising inflation expectations can lift yields and push quotes higher by afternoon.

How to read today’s quotes

• APR vs rate: APR includes fees; compare both.
• Credit tiers: A higher score often secures better pricing.
• Loan type: Fixed, ARM, and FHA/VA price differently.
• Points: Paying points lowers the rate; zero-point quotes run higher.
• Lock timing: Volatile days make a lock more valuable.

To gauge today’s level, check multiple lenders within hours, ask for the same scenario, and confirm a written lock. Small differences add up over decades, so precision matters.