
Current mortgage rates in Fresno can be a bit overwhelming, but understanding how they work can make a big difference in your homebuying experience. Mortgage rates are influenced by the economy, inflation, and the Federal Reserve's decisions, which can cause rates to fluctuate.
In Fresno, the average mortgage rate for a 30-year fixed-rate loan is around 4.5%. This rate is determined by the lender and can vary depending on factors such as your credit score and loan amount.
To qualify for the best mortgage rates, you typically need a credit score of 700 or higher and a debt-to-income ratio of 36% or less. This can make a big difference in the interest rate you're offered.
With a good credit score and a solid financial history, you can save thousands of dollars on interest payments over the life of your loan.
Current Mortgage Rates in Fresno
Fresno, CA mortgage rates are currently 7.028% for a 30-year fixed, 6.224% for a 15-year fixed, and 7.606% for a 5-year adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM).
On a similar theme: Mortgage Rates Have Fallen Back below 7

To get the best deal, rate-shop with at least three different banks or mortgage companies. This will help you compare rates and terms from several lenders.
Fresno mortgage rates may change at any time, so it's essential to check current rates regularly. These rates assume you have a FICO Score of 740+ and a specific down payment amount.
Here are the current mortgage rates in Fresno, CA:
Getting a mortgage preapproval is the only way to get accurate loan pricing for your specific situation.
Types of Loans
If you're looking for a loan that fits your needs in Fresno, you've got options. Conventional fixed-rate loans are a popular choice, with the interest rate being the amount your lender charges you for using their money, shown as a percentage of your principal loan amount.
One thing to note is that mortgage points, or discount points, can be a good option if you want to pay a lower interest rate and monthly payment upfront. One mortgage point is equal to about 1% of your total loan amount, so on a $250,000 loan, one point would cost you about $2,500.
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You can also consider CalHFA and CalPLUS conventional and FHA loans, which offer excellent options for first-time home buyers in California. These loans have closing costs and down payment assistance, but you'll need to meet certain eligibility requirements, such as a credit score of at least 660 and a purchase price of less than $1,149,825.
Here are some common types of loans in California:
- California conventional mortgages
- CalHFA
- California FHA loans
- California VA loans
- California jumbo loans
Options
If you're considering a mortgage in California, you've got plenty of options to choose from. California conventional mortgages offer varying rates and requirements depending on your location and financial situation.
You can compare mortgage rates to find the right fit for you. CalHFA, the California Housing Finance Agency, offers mortgages and smaller loans to help with down payments or closing costs. To get started, contact a CalHFA-approved lender or preferred loan officer.
FHA loans are another option, backed by the Federal Housing Administration and available through FHA-approved lenders in California. These loans are designed for low- to moderate-income borrowers with lower credit scores.
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VA loans, guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, are offered to eligible veterans and active-duty service members. VA loan interest rates are typically lower than conventional mortgages, and these loans require no down payment.
If you're looking to borrow more money in pricier zip codes, you may need to consider jumbo loans. These loans come with higher down payment and credit score requirements, so be prepared to compare rates from multiple lenders.
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Conventional Fixed-Rate Loans
Conventional fixed-rate loans are a popular choice for homebuyers. The term is the amount of time you have to pay back the loan.
The interest rate is the amount your lender charges you for using their money, shown as a percentage of your principal loan amount. This rate is fixed for the entire loan term.
You can choose to pay mortgage points, or discount points, up front in exchange for a lower interest rate and monthly payment. One mortgage point is equal to about 1% of your total loan amount.
On a similar theme: Housing Loan Amount
The monthly payment shown is made up of principal and interest. It does not include amounts for taxes and insurance premiums.
The annual percentage rate (APR) represents the true yearly cost of your loan, including any fees or costs in addition to the actual interest you pay to the lender. This rate may be increased or decreased after the closing date for adjustable-rate mortgages (ARM) loans.
A conforming fixed-rate loan typically has a loan amount of $464,000 and a down payment of at least 25%.
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Lock-in Duration
You can typically lock in a mortgage rate for 30 to 60 days, but it's essential to understand that this lock period can be shorter or longer depending on the lender.
If the rate lock expires, you're no longer guaranteed the locked-in rate unless the lender agrees to extend it.
Changes to your credit score, loan amount, debt-to-income ratio, or appraisal value during the lock period can void your initial rate lock.
Related reading: Mortgage Rates Lock or Float
Refinancing and Qualification
In California, more than 12,000 mortgages were refinanced in June 2024, according to ATTOM Data Solutions. This is a significant number, and it's a good indication that refinancing is a popular option for homeowners in the state.
If you recently bought a home with a mortgage rate of 7 or 8 percent, it might make sense to refinance if rates drop enough in the near future. This could save you a significant amount of money on your loan.
More than half of California properties are considered "equity-rich" as of the third quarter of 2024, according to ATTOM's data. This means that homeowners in California have a lot of tappable equity, which can be used for a cash-out refinance.
Due to high property prices across the state and high local living costs, refinancing is widely used in California, along with home equity lines of credit (HELOC). This is a common practice among homeowners in the area.
Consider reading: Equity Loan Rates Ny
To qualify for a refinance, you'll need to meet certain requirements, but with the right lender and a good credit score, you may be able to secure a better interest rate and lower your monthly payments.
Here are some common types of refinance options:
- Fixed Rates: These rates remain the same for the life of the loan.
- Adjustable Rates: These rates can change over time, but may offer a lower initial interest rate.
- Loan Types: There are various types of loans available, including FHA, VA, and conventional loans.
Understanding Rates
Mortgage rates in Fresno can be influenced by various factors, including the Federal Reserve's decisions on short-term rates.
Lenders set their own interest rates based on these decisions, as well as the economy and consumer demand. This means that interest rates can fluctuate daily.
To get the best deal, it's essential to compare loan details from multiple lenders, considering not only the interest rate but also the annual percentage rate (APR), fees, and closing costs.
Here are some current mortgage interest rates in California, as of January 3, 2025:
Mortgage rates can change frequently due to various economic factors, such as inflation, the bond market, and the overall housing market.
What Is a Good Interest Rate?
A good interest rate on a mortgage is not just about finding the lowest rate, but also considering other terms of the loan, like annual percentage rates (APRs), fees, and closing costs.
Comparing loan details from multiple lenders will help you determine the best deal for your situation. This means looking beyond the interest rate alone and evaluating the overall cost of the loan.
In California, for example, current interest rates for a 30-year fixed mortgage and a 15-year fixed mortgage are both 0.00%. However, this doesn't necessarily mean it's a good interest rate for you.
To determine a good interest rate, you need to consider your individual financial situation and goals. This might mean comparing rates and terms from several lenders to find the best deal.
Here's a simple table to help you get started:
Keep in mind that these are general ranges, and your actual APR may vary depending on your credit score, income, and other factors.
National
National mortgage rates can vary depending on the loan type, with 30-Year Fixed Rate loans being one of the most common options. As of January 3, 2025, the interest rate for a 30-Year Fixed Rate loan was 6.95%.
Rates can also differ depending on the lender and the borrower's individual circumstances, such as credit score and down payment. The Federal Reserve's decisions on short-term rates can influence mortgage rates, causing lenders to adjust their rates accordingly.
The APR for a 30-Year Fixed Rate loan is typically slightly higher than the interest rate, with an APR of 7.00% as of January 3, 2025. This is because the APR takes into account additional fees and charges associated with the loan.
Here's a breakdown of national mortgage rates as of January 3, 2025:
These rates are subject to change and may vary depending on the lender and borrower's circumstances. It's essential to shop around and compare rates to find the best option for your needs.
How Often Do They Change?
Mortgage rates can change daily.
Inflation is one of the key factors that can influence interest rates.
The bond market also plays a significant role in determining mortgage rates.
The overall housing market is another factor that can impact interest rates.
Fresno-Specific Information
If you're looking to buy or refinance a home in Fresno, CA, it's essential to know the current mortgage rates. The rates can vary depending on the loan term and type.
A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage in Fresno currently has an interest rate of 6.939% and an APR of 7.028%. This is a relatively standard rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage in the area.
If you're considering a shorter loan term, a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage in Fresno has an interest rate of 6.080% and an APR of 6.224%. This can be a good option if you want to pay off your mortgage faster and save on interest.
Here's a quick summary of the current mortgage rates in Fresno:
Fresno, CA
Fresno, CA is a great place to consider when looking to buy or refinance a home. The mortgage rates in Fresno are currently quite high, with a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaging 6.939% APR.
If you're looking for a shorter mortgage term, the 20-year fixed-rate mortgage in Fresno is a good option, with an interest rate of 6.848% APR. This can help you pay off your mortgage faster and save on interest over the life of the loan.
For those who want to make extra payments towards their mortgage, the 15-year fixed-rate mortgage in Fresno is a popular choice, with an interest rate of 6.080% APR. This can help you pay off your mortgage even faster and reduce your debt.
The 10-year fixed-rate mortgage in Fresno is another option to consider, with an interest rate of 5.729% APR. This can be a good choice for those who want to pay off their mortgage quickly and have a fixed monthly payment.
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If you're considering an adjustable-rate mortgage, the 7-year ARM in Fresno has an interest rate of 7.497% APR, while the 5-year ARM has an interest rate of 7.438% APR. Keep in mind that these rates can change over time, so it's essential to carefully review the terms and conditions before making a decision.
Here are some of the current mortgage rates in Fresno, CA:
It's worth noting that the 30-year fixed-rate FHA mortgage in Fresno has a relatively low interest rate of 4.997% APR, making it a good option for those who qualify for an FHA loan.
My Home Assistance Program (Zip)
CalHFA's MyHome Assistance Program and ZIP (Zero Interest Program) are two initiatives that can help with closing costs and down payment assistance in California. They offer second mortgages that provide up to 3% of a conventional loan or 3.5% of an FHA loan, whichever is lower.
These programs can be combined with CalHFA's loan initiatives to provide even more assistance. This can be a huge relief for homebuyers in Fresno who are struggling to save for a down payment.
The MyHome Assistance Program and ZIP can be used together to provide up to 3% of the loan amount, whichever is lower. This can be a great way to reduce the financial burden of buying a home in Fresno.
Additional reading: Mortgage Brokers Are Predicting a Return to Lower Mortgage Rates.
Compare Lenders
Comparing lenders is crucial to find the best mortgage deal for your needs. You can use Bankrate's tool to compare lenders side by side and find the one that suits you best.
To compare lenders, you can use Bankrate's scoring formula, which weighs several factors, including customer ratings and combined Bankrate Score. This will help you make an informed decision.
Garden State Home Loans, for example, offers competitive rates and dedicated service, but it only operates in a handful of states, including California, Florida, and New York. Homefinity, on the other hand, offers a fast and convenient process, and can help you get financing for your unique financial situation.
Here's a brief comparison of two lenders:
Remember to consider APRs, lender fees, and closing costs when comparing mortgage offers.
Historical and Market Context
Fresno's housing market has seen significant growth in recent years, with the median home price increasing by 15% in the past two years alone. This growth has led to a surge in demand for mortgages in the area.
You might like: Mortgage Rates Are at Their Lowest Level in Two Years.
The city's strong economy, driven by the agricultural and healthcare industries, has created a high demand for housing, which in turn has driven up mortgage rates. This has made it more challenging for potential homebuyers to secure a mortgage.
Fresno's relatively low cost of living compared to other major California cities has made it an attractive option for people looking to purchase a home, but the increasing mortgage rates have made it more difficult for some to afford.
Trends
Mortgage rates in California are following the national trend, which is expected to continue falling into the fall and end of 2024.
Lower mortgage rates are bringing relief to the housing affordability problem, and it's worth noting that declining median home prices in California could bring additional relief.
The median home price in California fell below $900,000 for the first time in four months in July 2024, according to the California Association of Realtors.
Real estate is a hyper-local industry, and prices can vary significantly depending on the location.
Related reading: Ca Mortgage Interest Rates Today
2008 Housing Crisis
The 2008 housing crisis was a pivotal moment in California's real estate history. It was a result of the real estate bubble bursting, which had been building up since 2006.
California had seen a decline in home ownership since 2006, according to data from the St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank. The housing crisis caused much turmoil in the Golden State, affecting many areas.
The San Francisco Bay Area saw a significant decline in luxury home prices in 2000 after the dotcom bubble burst. Home prices suffered even more after 9/11 struck a year later.
The real estate fiasco caused the number of foreclosures to increase, according to the Public Policy Institute of California. This led to a significant 35% decrease in the number of construction permits.
Home prices fell more than 15% in central valley areas, but only slightly declined in most coastal regions, estimates the Public Policy Institute of California.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are California mortgage rates right now?
California mortgage rates are currently 6.966% for a 30-year fixed, 6.315% for a 15-year fixed, and 7.404% for a 5-year adjustable-rate mortgage. Check our website for the latest rates and to learn more about your mortgage options.
What is the interest rate in Fresno CA?
In Fresno, CA, current mortgage rates are around 7.003% for a 30-year fixed and 6.270% for a 15-year fixed. Check our rates for a 5-year ARM and other mortgage options.
How can I get a 3% mortgage rate?
To get a 3% mortgage rate, consider exploring assumable mortgages, which allow you to take over an existing mortgage at its current rate. This option may be available if you're purchasing a property with a mortgage taken out at a favorable rate.
Sources
- https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/mortgage-rates/california/
- https://www.usbank.com/home-loans/mortgage/mortgage-rates/california.html
- https://www.totalmortgage.com/locations/state/CA/mortgage-rates
- https://www.mortgagecalculator.org/mortgage-rates/california.php
- https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/mortgage-rates/california/fresno
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