MortgageCast

As of March 20, 2026, the most current national average for a 30-year fixed mortgage for home purchases stands at 6.00%, according to Zillow data, while the 15-year fixed averages 5.48%. These figures reflect a mixed trend in March, with 30-year rates ticking up slightly from earlier in the month, but remaining below some recent peaks reported around 6.34% for refinances on March 18. Shorter-term options like the 20-year fixed sit at 5.97%, and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) such as the 5/1 ARM average 6.01%. VA loans offer lower rates, with 30-year at 5.52% and 15-year at 5.28% for purchases.

Refinance rates trail slightly higher than purchase rates across sources. Zillow reports the 30-year fixed refinance at 6.12% and 15-year at 5.57%, with VA refinances even more competitive at 5.53% for 30-year terms. Other updates show variability: a March report lists 30-year fixed refinance at 6.22% and 15-year at 5.76%, while Fortune's March 18 data pegs conventional 30-year refi at 6.34% and 15-year at 5.68%. Jumbo loans command premiums, averaging 7.73% for 30-year refinances. Bankrate's weekly average as of March 18 notes 30-year fixed at 6.27% overall, up from the prior week. These differences stem from lender networks, borrower profiles, and daily fluctuations tied to economic indicators like Treasury yields.

Rates have hovered in the mid-6% range for 30-year loans throughout early March, with 15-year options consistently under 6%, influenced by steady Fed policy and cooling inflation. Earlier snapshots, such as Freddie Mac's March 12 average of 6.11% for 30-year fixed, show an upturn from three-month lows, prompting more purchase applications. Borrowers should compare personalized quotes, as credit scores, down payments, and location affect final offers—82.8% of existing mortgages remain below 6%, per Redfin, locking many in place. Shop multiple lenders for the best deal amid this stability.

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