Credit scores in the US typically range from 300 to 850, using the widely-used FICO scale (VantageScore uses the same range with slightly different criteria). Where you fall in that range determines what interest rates and credit terms you're offered — and the gap between "good" and "excellent" can mean tens of thousands of dollars in interest over a mortgage or auto loan.
The standard FICO ranges
Poor: below 580. Fair: 580-669. Good: 670-739. Very Good: 740-799. Exceptional: 800-850. Most lenders consider anything 670 and above "good enough" to qualify for reasonable rates on most products, though the best rates are typically reserved for 740+.
What actually moves your score
Payment history matters most (about 35% of a FICO score) — late payments, especially 30+ days past due, hurt significantly. Credit utilization (how much of your available credit you're using) is next at roughly 30% — keeping utilization under 30%, and ideally under 10%, on revolving credit is one of the fastest ways to improve a score. Length of credit history, credit mix, and new credit inquiries make up the remainder.
Common misconceptions
Checking your own credit score does not hurt it — this is a "soft inquiry" and has no impact. Closing an old credit card can actually hurt your score by reducing your total available credit (raising your utilization ratio) and shortening your average account age. Carrying a small balance doesn't help your score either — a common myth; paying in full each month is better for your score and your wallet.
Why the gap between "good" and "excellent" matters financially
On a mortgage, even a 0.5-1% difference in interest rate — the kind of gap that can separate a 680 score from a 760 score — compounds into a significant amount over a 30-year term. Use the Mortgage Calculator to see how even a small rate difference changes your total interest paid.
How to check your score
US consumers are entitled to free weekly credit reports from all three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) via AnnualCreditReport.com, the only federally authorized source. Many banks and credit card issuers also provide free score monitoring as an account feature.