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Shopping for a car: fun, freeing, and full of fresh new smells. Shopping for a puppy: heartwarming and full of suspicious smells. Shopping for a mortgage: not particularly thrilling or fragrant but one of the most important decisions many consumers will make in a lifetime.

From assessing what they can afford to nailing down a mortgage type, researching the best rates, and ultimately securing a loan, homebuyers must take many steps when shopping for a home loan.

Here are a few tips and tricks on how to shop for a mortgage loan and what to expect along the way.

How to Shop for a Mortgage Lender

In order to obtain a home mortgage loan, a buyer first needs a lender. You might work directly with a financial institution, or you may find a mortgage through a mortgage broker (more on that later). Before you can research these options, you’ll need to have a sense of what you can afford to buy and borrow. Start by figuring out how much you might spend on a home and roughly what portion of that you will need to borrow.

💡 Quick Tip: You deserve a more zen mortgage. Look for a mortgage lender who’s dedicated to closing your loan on time.

Figuring Out What’s Financially Possible

Reviewing monthly spending and estimating how much they can afford is one way for mortgage shoppers to kick off the home-buying process.

A budget or worksheet can be particularly helpful in determining what’s possible, with line items for the mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, and funds set aside for emergencies.

A mortgage calculator is useful for estimating the real cost of a home purchase, allowing consumers to plug in and play with the factors that influence a monthly mortgage payment:

•   Loan type

•   Mortgage principal

•   Mortgage interest rate

•   Down payment amount

•   Loan term

•   Estimated property tax

•   Private mortgage insurance, or PMI

•   Homeowners insurance

•   Homeowners association (HOA) fees

Most mortgage calculators allow homebuyers to enter their credit score for a more accurate estimate. Checking your current credit score can help you determine what type of loan you qualify for.

In many cases, a higher credit score can help buyers get a lower interest rate, while a lower credit score could mean higher interest rates or the need for a larger down payment.

Knowing this information can help consumers estimate what range of quotes to expect from mortgage lenders or brokers before they start shopping for a mortgage loan.

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Determining the Best Type of Mortgage

Another step to take when shopping for a mortgage is deciding which type of mortgage loan to apply for.

This process could require some diligent comparison shopping to consider the pros and cons of each option alongside financial and personal needs.

Fixed-Rate Mortgage

A conventional fixed-rate mortgage offers the same interest rate and monthly payment for the entire term of the loan — typically 15 or 30 years.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

ARMs generally offer lower interest rates than fixed-rate mortgages, but only for a certain time, such as five or 10 years. After that, the monthly payments will adjust to current interest rates.

No Down Payment Loans

A no down payment loan allows buyers to purchase a house with zero money down at closing, except for the standard closing costs.

Federal Housing Administration Loan

An FHA loan is a government-backed loan that allows qualified buyers to put down as little as 3.5% if they meet several FHA loan requirements, including the payment of mortgage insurance.

Veterans Affairs Loan

A VA loan is a government-backed loan that allows no down payment and no mortgage insurance. It is available to eligible veterans, service members, Reservists, National Guard members, and some surviving spouses. VA loan requirements are worth looking into for buyers who fall into one of these categories.

USDA Rural Development Loan

A USDA Rural Development loan is a government-backed loan for families in rural areas who are trying to put homeownership within reach. As long as buyers’ debt loads don’t exceed their income by more than 41%, they can enjoy a discounted mortgage interest rate and no down payment.


💡 Quick Tip: Not to be confused with prequalification, preapproval involves a longer application, documentation, and hard credit pulls. Ideally, you want to keep your applications for preapproval to within the same 14- to 45-day period, since many hard credit pulls outside the given time period can adversely affect your credit score, which in turn affects the mortgage terms you’ll be offered.

Researching Rates and Deals

Once mortgage shoppers have a better idea of their financial bandwidth and preferred mortgage type, they can begin researching the optimum rates and deals they can get on a home loan.

Mortgage lenders and brokers might offer different interest rates and fees to different consumers depending on the day, even when they have the same exact qualifications. That’s why it can be important not only to understand mortgage basics but to compare what an array of different types of mortgage lenders and brokers are able to quote in the loan estimate.

Bear in mind that mortgage lenders and brokers receive a profit from the loan issuance, so they might be motivated to get consumers to agree to loans with higher fees, interest rates, or origination points.

Shopping around for the best interest rates and deals is a proactive way for homebuyers to avoid more expensive loans and ensure they can strike a deal they’re comfortable with.

How to Shop for a Mortgage Without Hurting Your Credit

When a lender looks at your credit history and score—what is known as a “hard” inquiry—and generates a mortgage preapproval, your credit score typically takes a hit. As you shop for a mortgage, you’ll want to instead first ask for a prequalification, which requires only a “soft” credit pull and won’t negatively affect your rating. It’s important to understand mortgage prequalification vs preapproval as you move forward through the process, as there is a time for each step.

Mortgage Lender or Broker?

One decision to make when shopping for a mortgage lender is whether to work with a lender directly, or to go through a mortgage broker:

•   A direct lender is a financial institution that assesses whether a buyer qualifies for a loan and offers them the funds directly.

•   A mortgage broker is an intermediary between the buyer and financial institution who helps the buyer identify the best direct lender and compiles the information for the mortgage application.
Long story short, mortgage brokers help homebuyers comparison-shop by collecting multiple lender quotes and presenting them all at once. This can be helpful for buyers who don’t want to deal with contacting multiple lenders. That said, the broker typically takes a commission, covered by the buyer, based on the mortgage amount.

In the case of working with a direct lender, it can be a good idea for buyers to deal with a financial institution they already have a relationship with.

Questions to Ask When Considering a Lender or Broker

Sometimes a list of questions can be useful when considering whether a mortgage lender or broker is the right fit. Ask prospective lenders the following:

•   How is the lender getting paid? It’s fairly common for a mortgage broker to get paid a commission on closed transactions. Asking them whether the fee is embedded in the loan origination fee or how their compensation will be facilitated can help make these costs more transparent to the buyer.

•   Can they offer competitive interest rates? If so, how long can they lock them in? While mortgage rates tend to be standard across the industry, lender rates can fluctuate based on the buyer’s credit score and financial history. Once the rate is locked in, there’s a guarantee from the lender that they’ll stay the same for a specific period of time, regardless of industry-wide fluctuations. Finding out if the lender is willing to offer the best rate and lock it in for, say, 60 days can help buyers know that they’re covered until closing time.

•   What are the typical business hours? Whether it’s a broker or a lender, finding out their availability can be good to determine in advance, especially since many home showings and offers happen on weekends and could require a tight turnaround time.

•   Can they provide a breakdown based on different down payment amounts? It can be useful for buyers to see a wide range of cost comparisons when shopping for a loan. Can the lender provide multiple scenarios with different down payment amounts, interest rates, and fees so the buyer can have a knowledgeable conversation about their budget and what’s possible?

•   What’s the loan processing time? Asking about the anticipated turnaround time for processing the loan (usually around six weeks) can help determine whether the lender will be able to execute the purchase and sale agreement in time for closing.

•   What fees and closing costs can be expected? Inquiring about expected charges is an important way for buyers to ensure no surprises or hidden transaction fees down the line. From origination fees charged by the lender to cover the loan processing to closing costs such as home inspection and appraisal fees, HOA fees, or title service fees, a loan estimate can help lay out which charges can be negotiated and which ones are fixed.

Understanding Risks, Benefits of Loan Options

Depending on the loan type, Annual Percentage Rate (APR), whether the interest rate is adjustable or fixed, the down payment amount, and potential prepayment penalties or balloon payments, mortgages have many different benefits and risks associated with their purchase.

Working with a lender to calculate how much monthly payments are estimated at the start of the loan, five years in, 10 years in, etc., can help make clear the risks and benefits of certain terms and conditions.

A mortgage worksheet is one way to help illuminate the potential upsides and downsides of a particular mortgage loan alongside the lender.

Negotiating the Best Mortgage Deals

After a suitable sampling of lenders have provided detailed mortgage loan quotes, consumers can compare costs and terms and negotiate the best deal. The mortgage worksheet can be helpful in this part of the process as well.

Being transparent about the fact that you’re shopping around for the best quote can incite lenders and brokers to compete with one another in offering the most favorable option.

Checking With Trusted Sources Before Signing

Once comparisons and negotiations whittle the list of quotes to a few, consumers might wish to consult with reliable sources such as a family member who has experience shopping for a mortgage, a housing counselor, or a real estate attorney to weigh in on the impending agreement. Review the loan documents with a trusted, well-informed source before signing anything.

Since getting a mortgage loan is often considered one of the most expensive commitments many consumers will make in their lifetime, there’s no harm in asking for a little help when making the decision.

Getting Mortgage Preapproval

Once you’ve chosen your mortgage provider, it’s time to consider getting preapproval. While being prequalified for a loan involves consumers submitting their financial information and receiving an estimate of what the lender could potentially offer, preapproval means the lender has conducted a full review of the consumer’s income and credit history and approved a specific loan amount for, typically, 60 to 90 days. This approval usually comes in the form of a letter.

Homebuyers can benefit from getting preapproved for a mortgage in many ways. Not only does it offer them the opportunity to discuss loan options in detail with the lender, but it also helps them understand the maximum amount they could borrow.

In some cases, sharing a preapproval letter with a home seller indicates serious intention to purchase a property. This can prove particularly helpful in competitive markets and bidding wars. Sellers will often go with a preapproved buyer over a prequalified buyer, since it may help the parties get to a closing more quickly.

Shopping for a Mortgage Lender Tips

In a competitive local housing market consumers may feel pressure to line up a mortgage quickly. But it pays to do your homework when shopping for a mortgage. Evaluate your own finances, know your credit score, and then make sure you are aware of the full range of options available to you. (Remember, first-time homebuyers may qualify for special programs.) Keep good records of competing offers from potential lenders or a mortgage broker. Never hesitate to ask about all costs or request clarification of any terms you don’t understand.

The Takeaway

How to shop for a mortgage? First, figure out how much you can comfortably afford, research loan types and interest rates, then compare what lenders offer. Finding the right loan is as important as choosing the right home.

SoFi makes shopping for a mortgage loan easy and you can get your rate in just minutes.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

What to look for when shopping for mortgages?

You want to look for a good interest rate when shopping for a mortgage, but you also want to consider the term of the loan and fees that might affect its total cost. A loan with the lowest monthly payment initially may not always be the most affordable choice over the long haul.

Is it worth shopping around for mortgage rates?

A mortgage is one of the biggest financial decisions most consumers will make, so it’s definitely worthwhile to shop around for the best rates.

How to shop around for the best mortgage interest rate?

Shop for the best mortgage interest rate by checking with various lenders to see what rate you might qualify for based on your credit score and down payment amount. Or work with a mortgage broker who will do this research for a fee.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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Most people probably expect to use a mortgage to purchase a home, but what if you have enough to pay in cash?

In a hot housing market, an all-cash offer can give homebuyers a significant competitive edge over those whose bids are contingent on getting a mortgage. And who wouldn’t want to avoid monthly house payments if they could?

Does it really make sense, though, to forgo getting a home loan — especially when you could invest the money and potentially earn a higher return?

Cash vs. Mortgage: A Quick Overview

According to the National Association of Realtors®, 28% of home sales in December 2022 were cash deals.

Those buyers undoubtedly had a mix of motivations when they decided to pay with cash. Some people don’t like the idea of carrying a big debt — or paying the interest on that debt. Others might want to skip some of the lending costs and nerve-wracking processes (approvals, appraisals, inspections, etc.) that are required when taking out a home loan.

And, yes, a cash offer can be an attention-getter when there are multiple offers on a house.

But it’s also important to look at the advantages of having a mortgage.

Before you move forward with a home purchase, here are some of the pros and cons of buying a house with cash vs. a mortgage.

Pros of Buying a House With Cash

There are some clear benefits to paying cash for a house, including:

Beating Out Other Buyers

A cash offer can help you compete more effectively with real estate investors who are able to pay cash for properties of interest.

Or you may be able to negotiate a better price with a seller who’s looking for a quick closing. If your seller already had an offer or two fall through because of contingency issues, it’s possible you’ll be perceived even more favorably.

Speeding Up the Buying Process

When you use a mortgage to buy a home, you can expect to spend a few anxious days working on your loan application, pulling together your paperwork, and waiting for the lender’s approval.

Then you’ll have to wait for a property appraisal, a title search, and other steps that let the lender know the collateral being used for the loan is solid.

With cash, you might be able to avoid some of those steps — and the costs that go with them. (You still may want to follow through, though, with procedures meant to ensure that your purchase is sound, even if they aren’t required. Otherwise, undiscovered issues could come back to bite you if you refinance or sell the home in the future.)


💡 Quick Tip: Mortgage loans are available with flexible term options and down payments as low as 3%.*

Buying When the Appraised Value Isn’t Market Value

Paying cash for a house can allow you to purchase a home that won’t appraise for the seller’s asking price (or the price the average buyer may be willing to pay). If you understand the problems and plan to make necessary improvements, you may still decide it’s the house you want.

No Monthly Payment and Fewer Long-Term Costs

With a cash purchase, you won’t have a monthly mortgage payment in your budget, which can feel quite freeing. And you can avoid some of the long-term costs associated with a mortgage, including interest and private mortgage insurance.

Cons of Buying a Home With Cash

Drawbacks also exist when paying cash for a house. Here are a few:

Losing Out on Investing Potential

Yes, if you pay cash, you’ll save by not paying interest, but could you make more money year to year by investing your money elsewhere? If you can lock in a low interest rate on a mortgage, it could free up cash for other purposes, including saving for retirement. (Plus, diversifying your portfolio is recommended in most cases. If you put most of your cash into your house, that’s just one asset — the opposite of diversification.)

Remember, diversification can help reduce some investment risk. However, it cannot guarantee nor fully protect in a down market.

Keep in mind also that if you liquidate assets to help pay for the home, you won’t just lose out on the earnings potential. If those assets have gone up in value since you purchased them, you also may trigger capital gains taxes.

Using Up All Your Cash

If purchasing your home with cash takes a big chunk out of your savings, you might not have the money you’ll need later for unexpected expenses or home improvements.

And if you end up using a credit card for those costs, the interest rate will likely be higher than it would be for a mortgage. The average rate in 2023 is 22.38% for new offers.

Cash Isn’t Always Better

An all-cash offer is a power move, but it won’t necessarily win the day. Though the thought of a quicker and easier closing will probably get the attention of the seller, they may still go with the highest offer, even if it includes a mortgage contingency.

Missing Out on the Mortgage Tax Deduction

If you itemize on your federal taxes, you won’t be able to deduct your mortgage interest if you pay cash for your home. Depending on what you’d pay in interest each year and what your tax bracket is, this could be a significant consideration.

The deduction can also be taken on loan interest for second homes, as long as it stays within the limits.

How to Buy a House With Cash

If you like the idea of being an all-cash buyer and you’re wondering what that process involves, here are some next steps to consider.

Consolidate Your Cash

Getting your cash together in one place could take a while, so give yourself some time. If you’re ready to buy, you may want to move your money from savings accounts, and any investments and other assets you’ve liquidated, to one easy-to-access account.

If you already own a home and plan to sell it, you’ll have to factor that into this process, as well, especially if you need the cash from the sale of your current home to put toward the purchase of your new home.

Negotiate the Price and Sign the Contract

Once you know how much cash you have to work with, you can make an offer on a home. Be prepared to provide proof that you have enough money to make the purchase. If the offer is accepted, you’ll sign a contract.

Consider the Worth of an Inspection

If you’re paying cash, a home inspection won’t be required. However, it’s a good way to protect yourself in case there are hidden issues. The same goes for getting an appraisal, owner’s title insurance, a termite inspection, and homeowners insurance.

Prepare for the Closing

The closing is when you’ll seal the deal and pay the seller. You may be asked to provide a cashier’s check for the amount you owe, or you might be able to pay with an electronic transfer.

How to Obtain a Mortgage

If you’ve decided that buying a house — or a second home — with cash isn’t doable or practical, then you’ll need to know how much you can afford to borrow.

Getting prequalified and preapproved are basics in securing a mortgage. The first provides a ballpark estimate of how much you may be able to borrow and at what rates, and the other will tell you exactly how much you can probably borrow and at what terms.

When getting preapproved, lenders will review things like your credit scores, employment history, earnings, assets, and debt to make sure you can meet your mortgage payment obligations.

You’ll need to consider if your savings are enough for your down payment, closing costs, moving costs, and home repairs. Even if a 20% down payment is ideal, that’s not always realistic or required.

Recommended: What is the Average Down Payment on a Home?
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💡 Quick Tip: If you refinance your mortgage and shorten your loan term, you could save a substantial amount in interest over the lifetime of the loan. ”

Delayed Financing: An Option for Cash Buyers

Delayed financing is a way to combine the benefits of cash and mortgage home buying. In short, it’s a way for you to buy a house with cash but then refinance the property within the first six months to get some of your cash investment back.

This route gives you the advantages of being a cash buyer but the ability to regain some of your sacrificed liquidity.

The cash-out amount can vary by loan program and there are specific eligibility requirements. For example, lenders generally require that the purchase was an arm’s-length transaction. This means the buyer and seller do not have any relationship outside of this transaction.

The stipulation is included to help ensure that each party is acting without pressure from the other and that both have access to the same information about the deal.

You may also need to show the lender a copy of your settlement statement showing the home was purchased with cash, a title report showing that you are the owner and that there are no liens on the property, and proof that your own money was used to make the purchase (no borrowed, gifted, or business funds).

The Takeaway

Paying cash for a house can be a good way to get attention in a hot seller’s market. And the idea of avoiding a monthly mortgage payment — and interest — can be appealing. But there are potential downsides to an all-cash deal.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

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*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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For many homebuyers, safety is a top concern when shopping for a house. It can influence where you feel comfortable living, and safety ratings can have a big effect on local housing market trends.

If you’re in the market to buy or rent a home and you’re looking for just the right spot, check out this list of the 50 safest cities from NeighborhoodScout.

How Is the Safest Cities List Determined?

To compile its list of the safest cities, NeighborhoodScout looks at FBI statistics for property and violent crime in cities across the country that have a population of 25,000 or more. This year’s list included areas with a township form of government, which resulted in a larger pool of locations and many newcomers to the list. (See the full list of 100 safest cities on the NeighborhoodScout site.)

💡 Quick Tip: Buying a home shouldn’t be aggravating. SoFi’s online mortgage application is quick and simple, with dedicated Mortgage Loan Officers to guide you through the process.

What Are the Safest Cities in the U.S.?

The safest cities in America tend to be suburban areas close to major cities like Boston. Only one spot on this list, Rexburg, Idaho, is outside a major metropolitan area.

Massachusetts is home to the most cities on the list at 18. Texas, with six cities on the list, ranks in second place.

Recommended: Price-to-Rent Ratio in 50 Cities

The 50 Safest U.S. Cities in 2023

Here’s a countdown of the 50 safest cities in the U.S. that you could call home. Consider safety, along with local housing market trends, if you’re thinking about relocating.

Friendswood, Texas

Friendswood began as a Quaker town in 1895 and became known for growing and preserving Magnolia figs. Since the 1950s, it has transformed into a quiet bedroom community 30 minutes from Houston and Galveston.

Population: 41,004

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.5

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 152

Major City Nearby: Houston

49. Newton, Massachusetts

A strong school system and proximity to downtown Boston draw homebuyers to this suburban community which is actually a cluster of 13 villages.

Population: 87,453

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.5

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 152

Major City Nearby: Boston

48. Prosper, Texas

This growing town in the Dallas area is known for great schools and beautiful scenery. Texas has no state income tax, which may be a draw for many homebuyers, although it does have a sales tax and property taxes may be higher than in some other areas.

Population: 34,136

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.4

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 155

Major City Nearby: Dallas

47. Dracut, Massachusetts

Dracut was home to Pennacook Indian settlements before Europeans arrived in the 1650s, and the town’s early economy depended on manufacturing and milling. The town provides easy access to the Lowell and Boston metropolitan areas.

Population: 32,159

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.4

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 155

Major City Nearby: Boston

46. Shrewsbury, Massachusetts

Shrewsbury was incorporated in 1727 and rests just outside the Boston metropolitan area near the city of Worcester. Although the violent crime rate has risen in recent years (while the property crime rate has declined), it is still one of the safest places to live.

Population: 38,999

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.4

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 156

Major City Nearby: Boston

45. Keller, Texas

Settled in the 1850s and named for a railroad foreman, Keller today blends urban amenities with a small-town emphasis on quality of life for its residents. The lovely Big Bear Creek Trail cuts through the city, ensuring access to a natural setting.

Population: 45,397

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.3

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 158

Major City Nearby: Dallas

44. Rochester Hills, Michigan

This Detroit suburb features the 102-acre Avon Nature Study Area on the Clinton River and the Rochester Hills Museum, where visitors can learn about pioneer farmers, Native American history, and local ecology.

Population: 76,028

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.2

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 160

Major City Nearby: Detroit

43. Beverly, Massachusetts

Beverly is a suburb of Boston on the North Shore of Massachusetts, just north of Salem. Like its witchy neighbor, Beverly offers historic New England architecture and water access.

Population: 42,446

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.2

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 161

Major City Nearby: Boston

42. North Kingstown, Rhode Island

Sailboats bob on the water in this pretty Narragansett Bay town. A cluster of villages, the town was settled in the 17th century and boasts some buildings from that era, as well as the Silas Casey Farmstead, which is maintained as a classic New England farmstead.

Population: 27,911

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.1

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 162

Major City Nearby: Providence

41. Ballwin, Missouri

This West St. Louis town, home to high-quality public schools, is located within 30 minutes of five universities and colleges. It has a diverse array of housing options at many price points.

Population: 30,870

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.1

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 162

Major City Nearby: St. Louis

40. Melrose, Massachusetts

Another suburb of Boston, Melrose was first known as Ponde Fielde due to its many ponds and streams. The charming Downtown Melrose, known for its Victorian architecture, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Population: 29,312

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.0

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 164

Major City Nearby: Boston

💡 Quick Tip: Your parents or grandparents probably got mortgages for 30 years. But these days, you can get them for 20, 15, or 10 years — and pay less interest over the life of the loan.

39. Milton, Georgia

Milton has one of Georgia’s highest rates of educational attainment and lowest rates of unemployment. The majority of its 39 square miles are zoned for agriculture, so residential lots are large here, at least one acre.

Population: 41,259

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.9

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 167

Major City Nearby: Atlanta

38. Commerce Township, Michigan

Commerce Township boasts easy access to lots of lakes, although not all are accessible to the public. If waterfront living is a goal, there are many options here, from smaller, older cottages to spacious new homes.

Population: 38,718

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.9

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 169

Major City Nearby: Detroit

37. Wylie, Texas

Once known as the “Onion Capital of the World,” Wylie is a fast-growing community with strong schools and abundant recreation opportunities for families.

Population: 59,394

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.9

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 169

Major City Nearby: Dallas

36. Waltham, Massachusetts

Nicknamed “the watch city” because it was home to an early watch factory, this diverse Boston suburb dates from the 17th century. Today, it is home to both Bentley University and Brandeis University.

Population: 64,015

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.8

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 169

Major City Nearby: Boston

35. Merrimack, New Hampshire

Options abound in Merrimack. Within an hour, you can get to busy Boston, hike in the beautiful Kearsarge Mountain State Forest, or take a dip at Hampton Beach State Park on the Atlantic coast.

Population: 27,132

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.7

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 172

Major City Nearby: Manchester

34. Little Elm, Texas

A suburban vibe and easy access to parks and lakes, including an entertainment district on the shores of Lake Lewisville, would make this an appealing place to live even if crime rates weren’t so exceptionally low.

Population: 51,042

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.6

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 176

Major City Nearby: Dallas

33. Edwardsville, Illinois

Edwardsville may be in Illinois, but it is a suburb of St. Louis and benefited from proximity to Route 66 as it grew. Among the oldest cities in Illinois, it has produced five of the state’s governors.

Population: 25,218

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.5

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 178

Major City Nearby: St. Louis

32. Andover, Massachusetts

Andover, about 23 miles north of Boston, was incorporated in 1646 and later became a thriving mill town. The city is home to prestigious college prep school Phillips Academy.

Population: 36,517

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.4

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 182

Major City Nearby: Boston

31. Cumberland, Rhode Island

Cumberland boasts a lovely bike trail which will eventually be part of a continuous 31.9-mile route. Its unique public library is built on the site of a former monastery, with tranquil walking paths and, in the summer, a free “Music at the Monastery” concert series.

Population: 36,434

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.4

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 184

Major City Nearby: Providence

30. Brandon, Mississippi

This city may be 193 years old, but it is one of the fastest-growing cities in Mississippi.

Population: 25,373

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.3

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 186

Major City Nearby: Jackson

29. Mundelein, Illinois

Less than an hour west of Chicago, Mundelein offers well-priced housing and a strong school system. Top employers are industrial and manufacturing companies, but the village also offers easy access to the Windy City.

Population: 31,560

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.3

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 187

Major City Nearby: Chicago

28. Wellesley, Massachusetts

West of Newton, Wellesley is a much smaller municipality, though the median household income is higher, at over $226,000, and the homeownership rate tops 80%.

Population: 30,191

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.2

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 189

Major City Nearby: Boston

Recommended: Cost of Living by State

27. North Andover, Massachusetts

Massachusetts makes a good showing on the safest cities list, representing nearly 30% of the burgs listed.

Population: 30,711

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.2

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 190

Major City Nearby: Boston

26. Reading, Massachusetts

Another Boston suburb just north of the city, Reading is a town of about 9,200 households with a median household income just over $145,000.

Population: 25,223

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.1

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 192

Major City Nearby: Boston

25. Mason, Ohio

Mason is the largest city in Warren County. The county is known as “Ohio’s Largest Playground” and boasts regional attractions including the Golf Center, the Great Wolf Lodge, and Kings Island amusement park.

Population: 35,089

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.1

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 192

Major City Nearby: Cincinnati

24. Billerica, Massachusetts

Billerica sits on the Shawsheen and Concord rivers about 20 miles northwest of Boston and is home to about 15,000 households.

Population: 41,453

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 5.1

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 195

Major City Nearby: Boston

23. Johns Creek, Georgia

The City of Johns Creek is a fairly young one, having been designated in 2006. But it is home to 200 companies and a thriving population.

Population: 82,065

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 4.9

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 202

Major City Nearby: Atlanta

22. West Bloomfield, Michigan

This township less than 30 miles from Detroit has many small- and medium-sized lakes. West Bloomfield has a large Jewish population and is home to the Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit.

Population: 65,560

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 4.9

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 204

Major City Nearby: Detroit

21. Colleyville, Texas

Conveniently sandwiched between the Dallas and Fort Worth areas, Colleyville offers a rural feel close to big-city amenities.

Population: 27,091

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 6.4

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 154

Major City Nearby: Dallas

20. South Kingstown, Rhode Island

South Kingstown is home to two scenic beaches, as well as picturesque farmlands and a riverfront walkway.

Population: 31,851

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 4.7

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 212

Major City Nearby: Providence

19. Windsor, Colorado

The only Colorado city on the list, Windsor, near the front range of the Rocky Mountains, once boasted giant herds of bison and a bustling sugar beet industry. Today, it is a hotbed of green industry, including windmill blade production and ethanol production.

Population: 35,788

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 4.5

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 218

Major City Nearby: Greeley

18. Wakefield, Massachusetts

Residents of Wakefield enjoy easy commuter-rail service to Boston and recreational activities on and around scenic Lake Quannapowitt.

Population: 27,104

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 4.5

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 218

Major City Nearby: Boston

17. Madison, Mississippi

This suburb of Jackson has a rural feel and a small-town atmosphere. It is a popular choice for retirees.

Population: 27,719

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 4.5

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 221

Major City Nearby: Jackson

16. Avon Lake, Ohio

This suburb of Cleveland lies on the shore of Lake Erie. Ample parks, a bike trail, and an aquatic center ensure residents of all ages have plenty of options for fitness.

Population: 25,588

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 4.3

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 232

Major City Nearby: Cleveland

15. White Lake, Michigan

Of the four Michigan cities on this list, White Lake ranks the safest.

Population: 30,990

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 4.2

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 233

Major City Nearby: Detroit

14. Needham, Massachusetts

Like many of the Massachusetts cities on this list, Needham is a well-off bedroom community of Boston, with a median household income of about $174,000.

Population: 32,048

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 4.2

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 233

Major City Nearby: Boston

13. Milton, Massachusetts

In Milton, an attractive suburb 10 miles south of Boston, is the birthplace of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush.

Population: 27,593

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 2.7

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 367

Major City Nearby: Boston

12. Oswego, Illinois

Located about 50 miles west of Chicago on the Fox River, Oswego lies on two rail lines and near three state highways and two U.S. highways. It has experienced rapid growth in recent years.

Population: 35,316

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 4.1

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 238

Major City Nearby: Chicago

11. Independence, Kentucky

The only Kentucky town to make it to the list, Independence is a short drive across the Ohio River to Cincinnati.

Population: 28,920

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 3.9

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 253

Major City Nearby: Cincinnati

10. Rexburg, Idaho

Rexburg, in eastern Idaho, is one of the only cities on this list that’s not near a major metropolitan area. Its proximity to nature is one of its calling cards. Yellowstone National Park is just 80 miles away.

Population: 35,300

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 3.9

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 253

Major City Nearby: N/A

9. Muskego, Wisconsin

This cozy city sits within the orbit of Milwaukee and within the greater Chicago area.

Population: 25,242

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents):3.8

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 265

Major City Nearby: Milwaukee

8. Lexington, Massachusetts

Known as the town where the first shots of the Revolutionary War were fired, Lexington is a suburb of Boston where the median household income tops $200,000.

Population: 34,071

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents):3.7

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 270

Major City Nearby: Boston

7. Zionsville, Indiana

Excellent schools and stable home values attract residents looking for a small-town feel just 20 minutes outside Indianapolis.

Population: 31,702

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents):3.6

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 275

Major City Nearby: Indianapolis

6. Fulshear, Texas

Fulshear has grown significantly in size in the 21st century, though it has retained its small-town charm.

Population: 25,169

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 3.6

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 276

Major City Nearby: Houston

5. Arlington, Massachusetts

Settled in 1635 as the town of Menotomy, Arlington was renamed in 1867 in honor of those buried at Arlington National Cemetery. The city is just 6 miles from Boston.

Population: 45,617

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 3.4

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 292

Major City Nearby: Boston

4. Marshfield, Massachusetts

Marshfield is 30 miles from Boston on the South Shore where Cape Cod meets the Massachusetts Bay. The year-round population grows to 40,000 in the summer months.

Population: 25,869

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 3.3

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 300

Major City Nearby: Boston

3. Lake in the Hills, Illinois

Once a sleepy rural community home to seasonal residents who enjoyed the area’s lakes, Lake in the Hills became a quickly growing suburb of Chicago in the last few decades.

Population: 28,945

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 3.1

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 321

Major City Nearby: Chicago

2. Franklin, Massachusetts

Franklin is conveniently located between Boston and Providence, Rhode Island. The town is named in honor of Benjamin Franklin, whose donated books formed the first public library in the country.

Population: 33,036

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 2.9

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 344

Major City Nearby: Boston

1. Ridgefield, Connecticut

This pretty colonial town nestled in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains was founded over 300 years ago and today ranks as America’s safest city. Visitors come for its historic Main Street. Families stay for its strong schools and, of course, its excellent safety rating.

Population: 25,011

Total Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents): 1.9

Chance of Being a Victim: 1 in 510

Major City Nearby: Bridgeport

The Takeaway

It’s a safe bet that house hunters will find many of these 50 safest cities in the U.S. appealing. There’s a lot to like about these towns in addition to their low crime rates, including great schools, high-quality housing stock, and natural wonders.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

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*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

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Getting most types of loans requires borrowers to prove their creditworthiness. To do this, many lenders review an applicant’s credit history and credit score.

Students who may have little or no credit, or even bad credit may be wondering, can you get a student loan with bad credit? It is possible to borrow a student loan with bad credit. Federal student loans, with the exception of Direct PLUS loans, do not require a credit check.

Private loans, on the other hand, generally do review a borrower’s credit history to inform their lending decisions.

Read on for some more information on the different types of student loans, information on how credit scores are used in a lender’s decision making process, and how to get a student loan with bad credit.

Getting a Federal Student Loan

As mentioned, when applying for most federal student loans, the status of your credit is not usually a factor. One exception is if you are in default on an existing federal loan, that may hinder your ability to qualify for more federal funding.

In order to take out federal student loans, you first need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). If you are a dependent student, you will also need your parents to fill out their portion of the FAFSA.

Are you a Dependent Student?

Not sure if you’re a dependent student or not? You very likely are if you are under the age of 24, even if you are financially independent and even if your parents don’t claim you as a dependent on their tax forms any more.

If you’re under the age of 24, there are a few ways you wouldn’t be considered a dependent student including if you were legally emancipated, are an orphan, are married, are an armed services veteran, or currently serving active duty, or if you have legal dependents other than a spouse.

Subsidized and Unsubsidized Student Loans

The FAFSA is used to determine your financial aid award, including both Direct Unsubsidized or Subsidized Loans.

Subsidized Federal Loans take financial need into account and the federal government will pay the interest that accrues on these types of loans while the borrower is attending college. So, the principal amount that is initially borrowed will remain the same until after graduation.

Unsubsidized Federal Loans don’t take credit history or your financial need into account, and you are responsible for paying any interest that accrues — including while you’re in school and during times of deferment or forbearance.

Another type of federal loan is called the PLUS Loan, and it’s available to parents of students if they want to help fund their children’s college education. It’s also available for graduate/professional students. According to the Department of Education, all Direct PLUS Loan applicants go through a credit check, because a qualification of the loan is that the borrower can’t have an “adverse credit history.”

Recommended: Comparing Subsidized vs. Unsubsidized Student Loans

Getting Private Student Loans

If you find that sources of funding like federal student loans, scholarships, grants, or earnings from work-study will not be enough to fund your education, then private student loans may be another option to consider. Note that private student loans do not come with the same borrower protections afforded to federal loans (such as federal forgiveness programs or income-driven repayments or deferment options) and are usually only considered after all other options have been reviewed.

When it comes to private student loans, you may be asking yourself, can I get a student loan with bad credit? Private lenders are more likely to rely on credit scores and credit history when determining their lending decisions.

So if, for example, you currently have a lower credit score, or not enough credit history, you may want to consider applying with a cosigner who has solid credit history, which can help strengthen the loan application. And, if you haven’t really established your own credit history yet, a private lender will also likely want a cosigner for at least two reasons:

•   There is scant record to demonstrate how responsibly you would pay back a loan

•   About 15% of your FICO® Score is based on the length of your credit history (and 90% of lenders use FICO Score when making lending decisions)

Development of Credit Scores

Credit scores were first developed by the three major credit bureaus and the Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) in the late 1980s and have now been widely adopted by the financial industry. Before the development of such scores, lenders needed to slog through credit reports that were sometimes pages long, and then make lending decisions that, at least in part, were based on these reports. Under that system, it was easier for the biases of lenders to play a role in lending decisions.

With credit scores, information is quickly summarized, and lenders can establish objective requirements about what type of credit is needed before a cosigner is required and/or a loan can be approved.

How Credit Scores Are Used

When applying for a loan, as mentioned previously, about 90% of lenders refer to your FICO Scores as a sort of risk “litmus test.”

Now, let’s say you apply for a private student loan. The lenders will review your application, including your credit score, and they can approve it, deny it, or offer you something different from what you requested.

Lenders will likely look at your credit score, as well as factors like how many loans you currently have, your payment history, and the amount of time in which you’ve responsibly used credit.

Recommended: Can You Get a Student Loan With No Credit History?

Building Credit Scores

Thirty percent of your FICO Score is based upon how much money you owe. This means that reducing your debt may help build creditworthiness. These tips may also help those who are interested in paying off debt on the way to potentially strengthening their credit scores:

•   Make monthly payments on-time.

•   Prioritize paying off credit card balance monthly.

•   Consider reducing the interest rate on debt by consolidating credit card debt into a personal loan.

•   Snowball down the debt. With this method, if you have debt spread across multiple credit cards, you’d start by paying off the account with the smallest balance while making minimum payments on the rest. Then move to the next smallest bill, paying as much as you can on that one until it’s paid off, and so forth.

•   Limit the amount of spending done with a credit card.

Once your credit gets stronger, you may want to consider refinancing any existing student loans you have. With student loan refinancing, you take out a new loan to replace the old loan, ideally with a lower interest rate and better terms.

If you currently have student loans, and you’re wondering if refinancing might be a good option for you, using a student loan refinance calculator can help you determine how much you might save.

Should you refinance your student loans? If you can get better rates and terms with a stronger credit score, it may be worth it. However, it’s important to note that refinancing federal student loans makes them ineligible for federal programs and protections. If you don’t need to use those programs, you may want to explore refinancing.

Recommended: Student Loan Refinancing Guide

The Takeaway

Credit scores and credit history can play a big role in a lender’s decisions. They are used to determine a borrower’s creditworthiness and can influence if an applicant is approved for a loan and the types of terms and rates they qualify for.

Can you get a student loan with bad credit? Aside from Direct PLUS Loans, federal student loans do not require a credit check. However, private student loans usually do require a credit check. As mentioned above, because private student loans lack the borrower protections afforded to federal student loans (like income-driven repayment plans), they are generally borrowed only after the student has exhausted all other options.

If you have student loans and you’re thinking about refinancing them to get a more competitive interest rate, consider SoFi. There are no fees and you can check your rates in just minutes.

Prequalify for student loan refinancing today with SoFi.

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Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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SoFi Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). SoFi Student Loan Refinance Loans are private loans and do not have the same repayment options that the federal loan program offers, or may become available, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, PAYE or SAVE. Additional terms and conditions apply. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

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When you create a budget, you are doing more than just tracking each dollar that comes in and goes out. You are also usually calculating what percent of your income should go to each spending category, as well as how much you think should go towards that bucket. That’s how you can see where you may be paying out too much of your hard-earned cash in one area.

Understanding what percentage of your income should go towards each purpose can be a valuable tool for managing your financial life. You might want to cut down on how much of your hard-earned cash is going toward food and entertainment and boost the percentage that goes to paying off, say, a student or car loan.

That’s why knowing how to determine budget percentages is a valuable tool in getting your budget and personal finances on track. Learn how to do the math here.

What Are Budget Percentages?

Even if you’ve already created a budget, you may have been thinking of it more in terms of specific dollar amounts than percentages of your income as a whole.

That’s where budget percentages come in: Rather than assigning a set dollar amount to spend in a given category, budget percentages require us to think instead about the proportional amount of our income that the dollar figure represents.

Take groceries. The USDA lists the average cost of a nutritious food plan every month, and those costs can range considerably. A couple 50 and younger might spend as little as about $595 a month on food at home or as much as $908. (That’s right: the cost of the “liberal plan” is about 50% higher that of the “low-cost plan,” according to the USDA.)

Whether either of those figures sounds reasonable may depend on what you earn, but by parsing each expense as a proportion of the whole, it’s easy to figure out how much you have to spend in each budget category. You can also look into reallocating if you were to get a raise or if your cost of living were to change (say, if you were to move).

Think of it as a pie chart: No matter the amount of cash you spend on a given category, that money represents a certain slice of the pie. Making sure that slice is the right size is important to ensure that everyone at the table — which is to say, each of your line items — will get some.

Recommended: Local Housing Market Trends

Basics of Budgeting Percentages

As mentioned, there are no hard and set rules on what percentage of income to assign to each specific budget category. After all, even the categories themselves will depend on your personal needs and wants. (Maybe you’re a frequent flyer with a budget line item for international travel, for instance, or a music aficionado who has to stash some cash for your growing vinyl collection.)

That said, there are some basic rules of thumb that can be used as a starting place and then customized for individual needs.

Example Budget Percentages

If you ask five financial experts what percentage of your money to allot to a given category, you’ll probably get five at least slightly different answers.

But here are some basic example budget percentages that many experts can, more or less, agree on:

•   Housing (rent or mortgage, including property tax and other expenses): 25%
•   Insurance (such as health insurance, auto insurance, and life insurance): 10%
•   Groceries: 10%-15%
•   Transportation (including gas, parking, and maintenance): 10%
•   Utilities (such as electricity, internet, and water): 10%
•   Savings (including retirement): 10%
•   Entertainment (movie nights, dinners out, etc): 10%
•   Clothing: 5%
•   Miscellaneous: 10%

That “miscellaneous” category gives you the opportunity to devote more cash to categories that you consider worth splurging on, get busy repaying debt, or make charitable donations.

But again, this breakdown is just a starting point. You’re in charge of which expenses matter most to you!


💡 Quick Tip: Make money easy. Enjoy the convenience of managing bills, deposits, transfers from one online bank account with SoFi.

The 50/30/20 Rule

One popular form of proportional budgeting is the 50/30/20 budget rule, originally popularized in All Your Worth: The Ultimate Lifetime Money Plan, written by Sen. Elizabeth Warren and her daughter, Amelia Warren Tyagi.

Per this rule, you’d divide up your income and spend 50% on needs, or essential items; and 30% on wants, or nonessential items; and commit 20% to savings.

Of course, you’d then have to further extrapolate how much of that 50% would go to housing vs. food, for example, and how much of that 30% would go to dining out vs. streaming services.

In Warren’s estimation, that 20% would also cover the money being put toward debt repayment, but of course, this isn’t the most aggressive debt-repayment strategy available—and a fifth of your income might not be enough to meet both retirement savings goals and debt repayment goals.

Which is to say, once again, that budget percentages are all about personalization. Which line items do you need to prioritize? Which can you minimize and cut?

How to Make Budget Percentages Work for You

Starting with the guidelines above, you can put budget percentages to work for you to help make your money map more effective … and also to ensure your money is going where you want it to go, rather than allowing it to end up where it will. Odds are, this exercise will be helpful, regardless of which of the different budgeting methods you use.

To start, determine all the categories that need to be accounted for — a list of everything you spend money on each and every month. This will include both necessary costs, like housing and food, as well as wants like entertainment costs, and important financial goals, like retirement savings and debt repayment.

Each and every expense must be represented for your budget percentages to truly add up to 100%.

Then you can start with fixed expenses (like your rent or mortgage payment, insurance payments, etc.) and determine what percentage of your overall monthly income they represent. That way, you’ll know how much you can allot for more flexible expenses, like groceries and gas.

This exercise will also reveal if you’re regularly overspending on a fixed expense. For instance, if you determine that your housing cost is closer to 50% of your budget than 30%, it might be time to consider getting a roommate or taking up a side hustle.

You may want to start by determining your budget percentages with your spending as is, and then create an aspirational pie chart to set your goals.

Maybe you want to spend less on streaming services and save more for travel or devote more of your income to repaying your student loans. It’s all possible with percentages.

Recommended: How to Make a Monthly Budget

The Takeaway

Slicing the pie into budget percentages makes it easier to meet financial goals and can be a major stress reducer. When you know where your money is going, you don’t have to worry about where it all went. Allocating percentages to your spending and saving categories can help you better manage your money.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 4.20% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

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As an alternative to direct deposit, SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant. SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits are not eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.

Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/31/2024. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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