The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in the United States climbed to 6.22% in late December 2025, marking a modest increase from previous weeks while still holding near its lowest level for the year. Despite upward momentum, borrowing costs remain below the 2024 peak, supporting cautious housing market activity.
- 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.22% on December 11, 2025
- Rate remains near the annual low of 6.18% recorded in November 2025
- Refinancing rate averages 6.39%, well above 2023 levels
- Housing affordability remains under pressure due to combined rise in prices and rates
- Prime borrowers can access rates as low as 6.05%, while subprime borrowers face rates above 8.0%
- Existing home sales down 3.4% year-over-year, new construction up 1.7% in November 2025
The national average for a 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.22% as of December 11, 2025, according to the latest data from the primary mortgage market survey. This represents a 0.05 percentage point increase from the prior week, reflecting renewed market sensitivity to inflation trends and Federal Reserve policy signals. Despite the uptick, the rate remains within a narrow band near the year’s low, which was recorded at 6.18% in early November 2025. The movement comes amid mixed economic indicators, including inflation data that suggest core price pressures remain elevated. Though the Consumer Price Index rose 3.1% year-over-year in November, the services component showed signs of cooling. These dynamics have kept financial markets uncertain about the timing of a potential rate cut by the Federal Reserve, which in turn influences long-term borrowing costs. The current mortgage rate environment continues to affect housing affordability. With home prices rising steadily—up 5.2% annually as of Q4 2025—higher borrowing costs are limiting access for first-time buyers. Refinancing activity remains subdued, with the average rate for refinances now at 6.39%, nearly 2 percentage points above the 2023 average. Still, the rate is below the 2024 peak of 7.51% seen in early 2024. Market participants are closely watching upcoming employment and inflation reports for clues on future monetary policy. For now, the housing sector remains in a holding pattern, with existing home sales down 3.4% year-over-year but new construction activity rising 1.7% in November. Lenders continue to adjust pricing based on credit quality, with prime borrowers securing rates as low as 6.05%, while subprime applicants face rates above 8.0%.