What Is a Good Credit Score? The Ranges Explained
“Good credit” gets thrown around a lot — but what does it actually mean in numbers? Lenders use scoring models with defined ranges, and knowing where you fall tells you what rates and loans you can realistically expect.
The credit score ranges
The two main models, FICO and VantageScore, both run from 300 to 850 and use similar tiers:
| Range | Rating | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 800–850 | Exceptional | Best rates available; easy approvals |
| 740–799 | Very good | Above-average rates; strong approvals |
| 670–739 | Good | Near-prime; solid options |
| 580–669 | Fair | Subprime; higher rates, still options |
| 300–579 | Poor | Limited options; highest rates |
So the short answer: a good credit score starts around 670. Hit 740+ and you’re in “very good” territory, where the best advertised rates open up.
What a good score unlocks
Your score directly shapes your borrowing costs. A borrower with a 760 score might qualify for a personal loan near 8% APR, while a 620 score on the same loan could mean 28% or more — hundreds or thousands of dollars in difference over the life of the loan.
What goes into your score
- Payment history (~35%) — do you pay on time?
- Credit utilization (~30%) — how much of your available credit you use.
- Length of credit history (~15%) — how long you’ve had credit.
- Credit mix (~10%) — variety of account types.
- New credit (~10%) — recent applications and inquiries.
How to reach the next tier
The fastest levers are lowering your utilization and never missing a payment — see our guide on improving your credit score fast. And if you’re borrowing now, our network includes lenders for every tier: fair, good, and poor credit. If your score is low, our guide to borrowing with bad credit explains exactly what to watch for.
