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Millennials continue to make up the biggest share of homebuyers, at 43%, according to a 2022 National Association of Realtors® report.

And Gen Y is the most educated group of buyers, so if you’re a millennial, you’re smart; you already know a few things about home buying.

But if you’re part of the generation of people born between 1981 and 1996, you may still have questions. Here are eight tips to buy a house.

Smart Homebuying Tips for Millennials

1. Pay Down Debt First

The average millennial had about $28,300 in nonmortgage debt in 2021, according to Experian’s latest State of Credit Report. The average balance on retail credit cards was over $1,800.

Gen Y’s credit utilization rate — the percentage of available credit you’re using on your revolving credit accounts — was 30.2% on average. That’s the top end that’s generally advised, but lower is considered better.

As many millennials know, savvy credit card users maximize the rewards they earn or take advantage of interest-free offers. But carrying a revolving credit card balance can add up.

Clearing out at least some debts may be a great place to start on a millennial homeownership journey. You’ll likely need to take out a mortgage to purchase a new house, which will account for an even larger portion of personal debt.

There are several strategies to pay off debt, including the snowball and avalanche methods.

Those methods are part of six ways to become debt free.

Recommended: How Many Credit Cards Should I Have?

2. Start Saving for a Down Payment

After whittling down at least some debt, it’s time to think about how to afford a down payment.

Though a 20% down payment may allow you to avoid paying private mortgage insurance on a conventional (nongovernment) loan and get a better rate, borrowers often are able to put down as little as 3%.

The down payment on a house can be as low as 3.5% for an FHA loan if you have a FICO® score of at least 580 (but mortgage insurance always comes along for the ride with an FHA loan and will not drop off unless you’re putting at least 10% down).

USDA and VA loans usually do not require any down payment, but the eligibility for those loans is pretty narrow.

Many lenders give first-time homebuyers a break, and income-qualifying first-time buyers may be able to get down payment assistance from state or city programs.

Younger millennials use a gift or loan from friends and family to help fund the purchase more than any other generation, the National Association of Realtors has found. A gift will need to be documented in a gift letter for the mortgage.

Recommended: 31 Ways to Save for a House

3. Determine Your Must-Haves

Here’s one of the most fun parts about purchasing a home: plotting a dream space.

Before starting your home search, it’s helpful to take some time and think about what you really want. Do you want an open-concept home, or need a minimum number of bedrooms and bathrooms?

Are you considering a condo or townhouse? The maintenance will be minimized, but regular fees are usually part of the deal.

Or is your heart set on buying a single-family home? You’ll usually be responsible for maintaining everything from the roof to the yard (hope you don’t mind mowing, blowing, and edging or paying to have that done).

Maybe you’re open to a frumpy house because you know you can easily upgrade your home with a smart front door, outdoor lighting, paint, and more.

Or maybe new construction — everything shiny and new — is calling your name.

To narrow the search, think about everything on your must-have vs. like-to-have list.

Recommended: How Do Home Improvement Loans Work?

4. Find a Real Estate Agent

Though you don’t have to use a real estate agent to purchase a home, a buyer’s agent can be your guide from the first viewing to the closing.

Real estate agents have access to a multiple listing service (MLS), which allows them to sift through every home in your area at once. They may also have pocket listings, or whisper listings, few others know about.

A real estate agent is also well versed in what needs to take place before a buyer can take ownership of a home, including making an offer, scheduling a home inspection, and obtaining homeowners insurance.

They know how to handle counteroffers, contingencies, and putting an offer on a house that’s contingent.

They may also have a list of trusted inspectors, lawyers, contractors, and insurance agents a buyer may need along the way.

Recommended: Guide to Buying, Selling, and Updating Your Home

5. Set Up Real Estate Alerts

Millennials are digital natives, so this part is cake.

Once your list of must-haves is complete and you’ve picked a real estate agent to assist you, it could be a good idea to set up alerts across listing sites such as the MLS, Zillow, and Redfin. You’ll be notified whenever a home in your chosen area, price range, and desires comes onto the market.

These websites also typically allow users to save favorites and gather intel on a specific home, such as its tax and sales history. They also allow users to book viewing appointments.

6. Think About Long-Term Value

While viewing homes, it may be easy to fall in love with fresh subway tiles, staged furniture, and the simple shine of a brand-new spot. However, it helps to take a beat and a breath and think about the long-term value of the home.

Are you buying this home as a spot to raise a family? Then make sure the schools are a good fit and it’s a walkable neighborhood. Looking at purchasing a home to rent out short term? Check local laws to ensure you’re zoned properly.

Are you buying a house from a family member? A gift of equity is a lovely thing for a buyer indeed.

Recommended: Local Housing Market Trends by City

7. Consider a ‘Love Letter’ and Incentives

Once you’ve found a home in your price range that comes with all your must-haves, it’s time to put in an offer. There is something you can add to your offer to stand out from the crowd: a personal real estate offer letter, or so-called love letter.

If you choose this route, write a letter to the current homeowner expressing how much you love the space and why you feel you’d make the next great owner. You may also want to point out all the things you love about the home design.

To make your offer stand out, you could also provide a quick closing date, suggest paying for things like a termite inspection, and offer a leaseback to the owners until they are ready to move out.

8. Shop for a Mortgage

With any luck, you’ve gotten prequalified or preapproved and know how much of a mortgage you can afford.
Now it’s time to look for a home loan.

When shopping for a mortgage, realize that advertised rates may differ from what you’re offered. Multiple factors determine your rate.

You can apply for a mortgage online with any number of direct lenders and mortgage brokers. Just try to do so within 14 days to protect your credit score.

Then you can compare all the details of the mortgage offers in the loan estimates you’ll receive after applying with each.

The Takeaway

As multitudes of millennials suit up to take the homebuying plunge, they will benefit by getting their finances in order, hiring an agent, setting up real estate alerts, and shopping for a mortgage.

SoFi is there for Gen Y with competitive rates, a variety of terms, and low down payments.

Look into the advantages of SoFi mortgage loans and get a quick rate quote.

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

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.

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.

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Pursuing a degree in another country can be an incredible learning opportunity — you can explore another culture and maybe even learn another language. International students may have to navigate different requirements when it comes to funding their education.

International students studying in the U.S. may not be eligible for federal student loans or other forms of federal aid. However, there are private loans for international students available.

American students pursuing a degree at an international university may be able to apply federal financial aid to their school costs. Keep reading for important details about student loans for international students.

What Are International Student Loans?

International student loans are available to students who are studying in a foreign country. For international students in the U.S., This generally means borrowing private student loans because for the most part, federal student loans are not an option for international students.

American students interested in studying abroad may be able to use federal student loans to pay for college costs. The Department of Education maintains a list of international colleges that participate in the Direct Loan Program. If you are interested in pursuing a degree abroad, consider confirming with the school as this list is updated quarterly.

To apply for federal student loans, interested students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) annually.

How International Student Loans Work

Student loans for international students in the U.S. are generally private student loans. These function similarly to other types of loans. After evaluating loan terms and interest rates at a few lenders, a student can apply for a loan with the lender of their choosing.

Each lender will likely have their own student loan application requirements. As a part of their decision making process, lenders will review factors including the applicant’s credit score and financial history.

Are Cosigners Required for International Student Loans?

Student loans for international students often require a cosigner. A cosigner is someone who legally agrees to repay the loan if the primary borrower fails to do so. Because college students may have little or no credit history, adding a cosigner who has a strong credit history can potentially help improve their chances of being approved. Additionally, lenders may require the borrower’s cosigner to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who has resided in the U.S. for at least two years.

International Student Loan Terms

When evaluating international student loans, borrowers will want to look at factors including interest rate, APR, and the repayment plans available. It’s also important to think critically about how much you plan to borrow in student loans.

Interest and APR

It’s important to understand the difference between interest rate vs. APR. Briefly, interest rate is just the cost charged for borrowing money. It’s generally charged as a percentage of the loan amount.

APR is a reflection of the interest rate and any other fees associated with the loan. When comparing loan quotes from different lenders, it’s more effective to compare the APR because it provides a more comprehensive picture of the total cost of borrowing.

Recommended: The Ultimate Student Loan Terminology Cheat Sheet

Student loans for international students may have fixed or variable interest rates. A variable interest rate may fluctuate over the life of the loan. Generally, a variable interest rate is tied to a prevailing interest rate. Starting in June 2023, the benchmark rate for student loans in the U.S. will be the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR).

Repayment Plans

The repayment plan will also vary based on the lender. The repayment period on student loans for international students may vary from 10-25 years. Generally speaking, there are a few types of repayment plans available, though it’s important to emphasize that each lender will set its own terms and conditions.

Some student lenders allow student borrowers to defer payments while they are in school on a full-time basis. This can be helpful for students who don’t have much room to make payments, but for the most part, interest will continue to accrue while the loan is deferred.

Other repayment plans may require just interest only payments while the student is enrolled in school. Other loans may require immediate repayment of both interest and principal, or initial loan amount.

Be sure to understand the loan’s repayment plan before borrowing.

How Much to Borrow

While borrowing student loans could help make international study a reality — it’s important to think critically about how much to borrow. Overborrowing can be a costly mistake. To determine how much you need, evaluate costs associated with the education including tuition, fees, room and board. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs that may occur as a result of living and studying in a foreign country.

Counting All Your Costs

You may need to apply for a student visa, as well as transportation costs. Round-trip tickets to a foreign country can also be very expensive, so if you go to school there, you’ll need to consider that you may miss out on family events like holidays or birthdays.

Regular Student Loans vs International Student Loans

Student loans for international students and traditional student loans function similarly. In both situations, an individual borrows a sum of money to pay for their education and then repays that money at a set interest rate.

Student loans for international students in the U.S., as mentioned, are generally private student loans. Most international students aren’t eligible for federal student loans or other types of financial aid.

Student Loans From SoFi

International students paying for college have a few options available to them. While they most likely won’t qualify for federal student loans, they can use a combination of savings, scholarships, and private student loans to pay for their education.

With SoFi, there are zero fees for private student loans. And flexible repayment options can help find a loan that works for your budget.

Looking for a private student loan? Find your rate in just a few clicks.

FAQ

Can foreign nationals get US student loans?

Yes, it’s possible for international students to get student loans in the U.S. If the student is a qualifying non-citizen they may qualify for federal student loans. Otherwise, private lenders offer student loans to international students.

How can international students get access to student loans?

International students can apply for student loans with a private lender. They may be required to have a cosigner on their application. Some lenders may require the cosigner be someone who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

How do most international students pay for university?

International students may pay for their education with a combination of funding. Savings, independent or school-specific scholarships, or private student loans.

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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 Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

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.

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.

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.

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

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Editor's Note: For the latest developments regarding federal student loan debt repayment, check out our student debt guide.

Student loan scams are, unfortunately, not uncommon. They run the gamut — from offering student loan forgiveness scams to straight up stealing your hard-earned dollars. Since President Biden announced his plan for student loan forgiveness in August 2022, there has been an increase in student loan scams promising loan forgiveness or relying on borrower confusion around the new loan forgiveness program.

There are plenty of authentic refinancing and consolidation options, such as income-driven repayment plans, that might help you in the long run. Continue reading for more information on common student loan scams and seven red flags that can help you suss out if a company is legitimate or not.

Common Student Loan Scams

Those under stress from student loans can feel compelled to go to extreme measures to get rid of their debt, which can make them more susceptible to predatory tactics.

Promising Loan Forgiveness

One typical scam is a student loan assistance company that advertises loan forgiveness or lower payments in exchange for an upfront fee, followed by a few more payments.

Unsuspecting people pay and then six months later, the firm will shut down. This one isn’t as insidious as some other common scams, but you could still be out some money. And if you’re part of the college debt crisis and thousands of dollars in debt, that isn’t where you want to be.

Charging a Fee for Federal Student Loan Consolidation

Another common tactic is to offer federal student loan consolidation for a fee. Federal student loan consolidation is always available for free from the Department of Education. Or you could refinance your federal student loans with a reputable lender. But it is important to remember that if you refinance your student loans with a private lender, you will lose access to federal benefits such as student loan forgiveness, income-driven repayment plans, and deferment.

If you’re going to refinance your student loans, however, it’s a smart idea to do your due diligence before signing on with a lender (of course, keeping in mind that refinancing to private loans, even with reputable lenders, can strip you federal benefits like income-driven repayment plans).

7 Red Flags for Student Loan Scams

Here are a few tips to help you spot potential student loan scams.

1. Requests For Sensitive Information Over the Phone

A legitimate private lender will need your Social Security number and other info to process your refinance application, but they are unlikely to cold call you. If you’re working with an online lender, do a little homework by researching the company and reading consumer reviews.

And if you’re really unsure, you can contact your state attorney general’s office to see if complaints have been lodged against the company. The rule of thumb here? Never share any personal information until you are 100% certain you are dealing with a legitimate lender.

2. The Company Requires Direct Payment Immediately

A major indication that you’re dealing with a student loan scam is the requirement of an upfront fee. Once they get the fee, many scam companies simply take your money and disappear, leaving your loans in forbearance (or worse, default), and you none the wiser.

Debt counseling firms are not allowed to charge you any fees until after they renegotiate, settle, or reduce at least one debt for you. Yes, a reputable lender will charge interest on your loan, but they will not ask you for cash upfront.

3. A Promise of Immediate Loan Forgiveness

Student loans are notoriously difficult to shake, even if you file for bankruptcy. There are a few situations that can qualify you for federal student loan forgiveness — for example, if under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF), you’ve worked for an eligible employer, are on an income-driven repayment plan, and have made 10 years of qualifying payments.

So immediate loan forgiveness is likely a ruse. While it would be nice for all your student loans to be forgiven in an instant, this is unfortunately a pie-in-the-sky dream.

If you do qualify for one of the federal loan forgiveness options, there’s no need to have a third party negotiate for you. Simply call your loan servicer for instructions on the process — free of charge. Just keep in mind that only 1% of those who have applied for PSLF have been approved.

4. You Are Encouraged to Pay Off Your Student Loans to a Third Party Directly

Why would you want someone else making payments on your behalf? It begs the question: What are they hiding?

5. The Company Claims to Be Working with the U.S. Department of Education

Some private lenders misrepresent themselves by using names, seals, and logos that give the impression they’re affiliated with the federal government’s student loan programs (hello, Obama Forgiveness Plan). However, the Department of Education does not solicit people to borrow money.

The Department of Education doesn’t work with private loan consolidation companies, but it does work with private loan servicer companies. A servicer collects payments and handles other services on the loan you already have, but it doesn’t offer private loan consolidation. The government offers its own Direct Consolidation Loan program (by application) for free, so if anyone tries to sell you this option, they are pulling one over you.

6. Someone Is Pressuring You to Sign Up under Time Constraints

No legitimate loan program is only available for a short period of time. If they are overly insistent and don’t go for an offer to call them back directly, this could be a red flag.

7. The Company Is Charging a Consolidation Fee

This is where things can get a little murky. As noted above, there are legitimate private companies that can help you consolidate and refinance student loans for a fee. As long as they don’t charge you any fees until refinancing has occurred, they’re most likely operating legitimately.

But be cautious. Again, if you want to apply to consolidate federal student loans through the Direct Consolidation program it’s a free process — so you don’t need a company to do it for you.

If you want to consolidate and refinance your private student loans on the other hand, know that the private company is probably refinancing your current loans into one new private loan. In that case, be sure to check the interest rate, any fees, and read the fine print to see if the new deal is actually better than your old one.

What to Do if You Suspect a Student Loan Scam?

If you suspect a student loan scam, do not engage. If it is a digital scam, do not click any links and report them as spam in your inbox. Do not offer any personal information via a phone call.

You can report the scam to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

What Recourse Do You Have if You Are Victim of a Scam

If you have already fallen victim to a student loan scam, there are some important steps to take. First, contact your local police agency to report the scam. You’ll also want to report the scam to your local Attorney General’s office.

You can also report the scam, as mentioned, to both the CFPB and FTC.

What Is Student Loan Fraud?

Student loan fraud occurs when a company or individual wrongfully or deceptively over-promises or charges a fee for unachievable services. This could occur if a company offers a fee for the promise of instant loan forgiveness.

How Student Loan Fraud Works

If a company offers a borrower a path to loan forgiveness and requires a fee up-front, this could be considered student loan fraud. Scammers may ask for borrower’s personal information, like their Social Security number or access to their federal student aid account.

Scammers are resourceful and have been known to contact borrowers via phone, letters in the mail, email, or text messages. They may even impersonate reputable lenders — look for subtle changes in the logo on emails or websites. There have even been SoFi scammers, who have impersonated SoFi, offering fake giveaways to unsuspecting SoFi members.

Understand how your loan services contacts it’s borrowers — most lenders will cold call customers and ask for personal information. To protect yourself from scammers, avoid giving any personal information via phone and be sure you are interacting with a reputable agency.

Is Consolidating Your Student Loans the Right Decision for You?

Spotting a student loan scam isn’t always easy, especially when companies go out of their way to convince you they’re legit. If your gut tells you a deal is too good to be true, then it probably is.

When choosing between a Direct Consolidation Loan (for federal student loans) and student loan refinancing (for federal and/or private loans), it’s worth taking some time to learn about all your options, as the terms and potential outcomes (savings vs. interest spend) can be very different. Check out our quick guide to student loan consolidation vs. refinancing for more details.

Refinancing student loans can be a great way to make payments more manageable, depending on what kind of student debt you have. However, not all refinance options are created equal. It’s important to do your homework before deciding to consolidate and/or refinance your student loans, because your individual circumstances will dictate whether consolidation or refinancing is right for you:

Direct Consolidation Loans

Direct Consolidation Loans from the federal government can only be used to consolidate federal loans. It’s essentially a way to package multiple loans into one, giving you a new, fixed interest rate that’s a weighted average of all your federal loans (rounded to the nearest eighth of a percent) and, sometimes, a longer term. This means your monthly payment amount doesn’t necessarily go down, nor does your interest rate — it just makes things more straightforward.

Student Loan Refinancing

Refinancing means consolidating all your student loans — regardless of whether they’re federal or private. You refinance with a private lender, and typically do so if you think you might qualify for a lower interest rate. Refinancing may allow you to pay all your student loans off at a more competitive interest rate, which can save you over the life of your loan.

You can also typically change the term length on your refinanced loan — a longer term length could lower your monthly payments, while a shorter term length could help you pay off your student loans faster.

In order to know how much you could gain from refinancing, you can start by verifying how much you owe and what your interest rates are across both private and federal loans. Once you know that information, you can use this student loan refinancing calculator to see your estimated savings.

And, again, it is important to remember that if you choose to refinance your student loans with a private lender you will lose access to federal benefits such as student loan forgiveness, Direct Consolidation Loans, and income-driven repayment plans.

The Takeaway

Student loan scammers take advantage of borrowers who are trying to pay off student loan debt. These scams often appeal to borrowers looking for quick student loan relief and offer their service in exchange for a fee. To protect yourself, avoid offering personal information via requests on the phone.

If you are exploring loan options consider SoFi. SoFi is a leader in the student loan space — offering both private student loans to help pay your way through school or refinancing options to help you pay off your loans faster. See your interest rate in just a few minutes. No strings attached.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

How do common student loan scams work?

Common student loan scams often promise student loan relief or a quick path to loan forgiveness in exchange for an upfront fee.

Is there a way to stop student loan scam calls?

It may not be possible to stop student loan scam calls completely. If you receive unwanted phone calls, block the phone number. You can also add your phone number to the national Do Not Call list. This list prevents telemarketers from contacting you via phone, but may not prevent scammers from reaching out.

If you receive unwanted calls after signing up for the Do Not Call list, you can report them to the FTC.

What is student loan forgiveness fraud?

Student loan forgiveness fraud can occur when a company offers to assist borrowers with repayment or offers student loan forgiveness or relief in exchange for a fee. This is illegal. Most federal programs do not require a fee to access.

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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 Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

SoFi Student Loan Refinance
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.

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.

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.

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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For those looking to trade big-city life for backyards and gardens, more square footage, home office space, and parks, the suburbs may be the perfect spot to call home.

Let’s not forget great public schools, a hallmark of a high-ranking suburb.

Top 50 Suburbs in the US

Although the country teems with ’burbs, here’s a look at the 50 best suburbs according to Niche, using government data and community reviews.

If safety is a big priority, also take a look at the 50 safest cities in America.

1. Chesterbrook, Pennsylvania

Chesterbrook was crowned first among U.S. suburbs. With highly rated public schools and an intimate feel (under 6,000 residents), this Philadelphia suburb is leafy and cozy. Chesterbrook is among eight Keystone State suburbs on this list.

2. Penn Wynne, Pennsylvania

Real estate can get pricey in Penn Wynne (also known as Wynnewood), a small Philly suburb where about half of the population of 6,650 has at least a master’s degree and where locals are passionate about the arts. Bars, coffee shops, and parks lend an urban-suburban feel.

3. Ardmore, Pennsylvania

Those looking to put down roots in a suburban neighborhood that also has an urban feel will like Ardmore, yet another Philadelphia ’burb, with about 13,800 residents. It has plenty of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and parks to choose from and excellent schools.

4. Los Alamos, New Mexico

This historic suburb of 13,400 denizens is the birthplace of the atomic bomb, but it also happens to be known as a great place to live with a top-notch public school system and nature all around.

5. Carmel, Indiana

Carmel, north of Indianapolis, features neighborhoods rich in architectural diversity and low in crime. This spot is home to more than 103,000 people.

6. Great Neck Plaza, New York

With eateries, parks, and superlative public schools, this village on the North Shore of Long Island is walkable, dog friendly, and commutable to Manhattan by train. The burg of 7,640 has a strong contingent of retirees and home prices below the national average. If this New York suburb isn’t the right fit, maybe one of the other nine will be.

7. Okemos, Michigan

The east side of East Lansing is beloved because of its low crime rates, lower-than-average cost of living, and the amenities at Michigan State University. With a population of about 25,870, Okemos has stellar public schools, a college town vibe, and a small base of tech employment.

8. Richmond Heights, Missouri

This St. Louis suburb, home to about 9,400 people, offers amenities for both families and young professionals. With highly rated public schools, Richmond Heights also has a vibrant nightlife scene and good housing options.

9. Holly Hills, Colorado

For a small-town feel and great public schools, hop on over to Holly Hills. This Denver suburb is home to about 2,700, so you’re likely to know a lot of your neighbors.

10. Brookline, Massachusetts

This Boston suburb’s public schools constantly receive high marks and welcome families from around the globe. With about 64,000 residents, Brookline is attractive but not cheap: Its median home sale price is more than double the national median.

11. Great Neck Gardens, New York

With fewer than 1,300 residents, this New York City suburb has the usual perks of a coveted hamlet, and a relatively gigantic housing cost.

12. Clarendon Hills, Illinois

This community southwest of Chicago (pop. 8,760) offers top-notch public education for children, a safe environment, and a vibrant downtown. The median home sale price is a bit above the national median.

13. Swarthmore, Pennsylvania

Swarthmore has small-town charm but is only a 20-minute train ride to Philadelphia’s museums, theaters, and restaurants. The suburb of about 6,600 offers more than two dozen forested trails for those looking to connect with nature.

14. Clayton, Missouri

Those looking to give their career a boost may find opportunity in Clayton. This St. Louis suburb of 17,600 employs over 7,300 people. Clayton is also considered green and safe. The median home price tends to be above the U.S. median price.

15. Brentwood, Missouri

This affordable St. Louis suburb is home to nearly 8,300, many of whom are young professionals. Highly rated schools, a high homeownership rate, and a variety of parks and dining establishments make Brentwood one of the best suburbs in the Show-Me State and the country.

16. Brighton, New York

Brighton is overflowing with historic charm. This Rochester suburb of 37,200 was established in 1814 and features well-preserved 19th-century brick homes.

17. Manhasset Hills, New York

About 3,660 people call this New York City suburb home. Manhasset Hills has a rural feel and an average home sale price topping $1 million.

18. Mount Lebanon Township, Pennsylvania

Architecture lovers will fall head over heels for this neighborhood (lovingly known by locals as Lebo). This Pittsburgh suburb of about 33,600 people blends sophistication and small-town charm. Take your pick from American Craftsman, stone Colonials, Prairie, and English Tudor style homes.

19. Oakwood, Ohio

With about 9,500 residents, this Dayton suburb has a sparse suburban feel and an abundance of parks, bars, restaurants, and coffee shops. Most residents own their homes, and the public schools are, well, you know, above par.

20. North Potomac, Maryland

North Potomac, only about 20 miles from Washington, D.C., earned a spot on this list, thanks to awesome public schools and family amenities, not to mention a walkable and diverse environment. It’s home to about 23,700 people.

21. Narberth, Pennsylvania

You won’t get lost in the crowd in this friendly Philadelphia suburb of 4,500, which has an urban-suburban feel with historic homes, shops, restaurants, a train station, and the requisite good public schools.

22. Syosset, New York

Yet another New York City suburb makes the list. Syosset, with over 19,000 residents, has a rural vibe and all the bells and whistles of an attractive suburb. It also has a housing cost of more than twice the national median.

23. Wayland, Massachusetts

This Boston ’burb hosts 13,800 people, including a good number of retirees. People consider it safe, pretty, pricey, and calm.

24. Jericho, New York

Families will appreciate Jericho’s highly rated public schools, parks, and other amenities. The affluent Long Island hamlet of 15,000 is within reach of Manhattan.

25. Greenville, New York

Greenville, often called Edgemont, is a bedroom community of 4,700 residents north of Manhattan. It’s a magnet for parents who want good public schools.

26. Morrisville, North Carolina

Those who are moving to the Raleigh area may find Morrisville appealing, thanks to proximity to amenities and career opportunities like Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Research Triangle Park, and the Lenovo headquarters. The average home price in this community of 31,840 is around the national average.

27. Williamsville, New York

This little Buffalo village has great schools, several parks, historic landmarks, and a relatively low cost of living.

28. Long Grove, Illinois

Another Chicago suburb makes the list. Long Grove, pop. 8,400, is considered a great place to raise a family, thanks to highly rated public schools and low crime rates.

29. Mountain Lakes, New Jersey

This tiny suburb 31 miles from Manhattan is considered safe, charming, and green. It’s a wealthy pocket with a strong sense of community.

30. Chesterfield, Missouri

This sizable St. Louis suburb of 50,500 is partly situated on the floodplains of the Missouri River. There is no shortage of attractions here, including historical houses, conservation areas, and dining options.

31. East Williston, New York

Here’s another Manhattan bedroom community, this time 20 or so miles from the big city. The tiny Long Island suburb has great schools and a hometown feel. Household income and education level skew high, as they do in most of the ’burbs on this list.

32. Cascades, Virginia

Cascades is the first Old Dominion ’burb on the list of the top 50 suburbs in the U.S. The neighborhood of about 12,500 is within driving distance to Washington, D.C., and has good public schools, parks, playgrounds, and great housing options.

33. Kensington, New York

This tiny Manhattan suburb attracts families and retirees for all the reasons a ’burb bursts into the top 50. This is a highly educated, high-income enclave.

34. Ridgewood, New Jersey

This New York City suburb offers residents a sparse suburban feel, and most residents own their homes. The focus in this family-friendly village of over 26,000 is education. Home prices skew high.

35. Cary, North Carolina

Cary, with over 182,000 residents, affords fun, from outdoor concerts and movies to the annual Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival. Stop by the quaint downtown of this Raleigh suburb during the holiday season for a charming experience.

36. Aspinwall, Pennsylvania

This little borough on the Allegheny River is near downtown Pittsburgh. It’s historic and picturesque, with high education levels and average home prices below the national average.

37. South Kensington, Maryland

This little ’burb is near Washington, D.C., and has not-tiny home prices. With fewer than 9,000 residents, South Kensington has great public schools, a family-friendly vibe, and a nightlife scene. It looks like Mom and Dad need to book a babysitter.

38. North Bethesda, Maryland

Here’s another pocket of tranquility in the Old Line State. There are so many benefits of living in North Bethesda that it’s hard to keep track. Situated close to Washington, D.C., this suburb has its own dining, shopping, and entertainment scene.

39. Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica residents are lucky enough to live a stone’s throw from the Pacific Ocean, and many live within walking distance of the famed Third Street Promenade and its many restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Bring your wallet, of course, if you plan to live here.

40. Cave Springs, Arkansas

Move over, Hot Springs. Cave Springs made the list. Named for two caves and the water source that flows from one of them, this suburb of about 6,250 people has a small-town feel, home prices in line with the national average, and A-rated public schools.

Recommended: Home Affordability Calculator: How Much House Can You Afford?

41. Innsbrook, Virginia

Innsbrook is a thoughtfully planned community that is an ideal place to live, work, and play. Fortune 500 companies, startups, and small businesses are attracted to this Richmond bedroom community of 9,250 people.

42. Cinco Ranch, Texas

Cinco Ranch’s public schools, housing options, and job market put it on the map. A lot of house for the money combined with great outdoor and nightlife activities make this suburban swath of over 16,000 outside Houston a hot spot.

43. Fishers, Indiana

This Indianapolis suburb has an average of 187 clear days every year and an average high of 85 degrees in the summer. Many families and young professionals live in Fishers, pop. 37,835, where the average home price is below the national average.

44. Ottawa Hills, Ohio

The second Ohio suburb to make the list of the most popular suburbs in the U.S. is Ottawa Hills. This village outside Toledo is safe, well educated, affordable, and good for families.

45. Short Pump, Virginia

Short Pump, named for a short-handled water pump for horses at an 1800s tavern there, has a population of 27,500 and is home to lots of families and young professionals who own their own homes. This dense suburban neighborhood outside Richmond has good schools, great housing options, and nightlife to pursue.

46. Frontenac, Missouri

This tiny, affluent St. Louis neighborhood has a rural feel and all the things that make a suburb stand out.

47. White Rock, New Mexico

This community of 5,880 in Los Alamos County has a rural vibe, great schools, hiking trails, lots of parks, and home prices in line with the national average.

48. Stone Ridge, Virginia

Good public schools, housing options, and diversity all helped Stone Ridge land the 48th spot on this list of top U.S. suburbs. The Washington, D.C., bedroom community has about 16,600 residents.

49. The Woodlands, Texas

This sounds like a good kind of sprawl, y’all. The Woodlands, a 29,000-acre master-planned home to 118,500 people and over 2,000 businesses, has a natural forest and 140 parks and is linked by more than 220 miles of hiking and biking trails. With top schools, home prices just a bit above the national average, and nightlife, this Houston suburb scores.

50. Berwyn, Pennsylvania

This pricey Philadelphia suburb of just 3,800 residents offers an urban-suburban feel. Most residents own their own homes, and there are charming coffee shops, restaurants, and parks to visit.

Financing a Fresh Start

You might have a fave or two among the best suburbs in the U.S. Is it time to fund the dream for your family and start anew in a place you hadn’t considered?

When you’re ready to look for a mortgage, know that SoFi offers home loans with low rates, low down payments, flexible term options, and a closing time guarantee.

Applying for a home mortgage loan doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by getting a quick, no-obligation rate quote.

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

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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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From everyday purchases to splurges, consumers often turn to credit cards. Some even reach for the plastic to pay the rent. But is paying rent by credit card a good idea? And can you pay rent with a credit card even? The answer to both questions: It depends.

Whether you can pay rent with a credit card largely depends on your landlord’s rules, though there are potential workarounds. But even if you can figure out how to pay rent with your credit card, there are pros and cons to paying rent with a credit card that you’ll want to consider.

Do Landlords Allow Payment by Credit Card?

For renters tempted to reach for the plastic, the first likely question is whether this mode of payment is even accepted. The answer to whether you can pay rent with a credit card will depend on the landlord, though many do not allow it.

The reason many landlords don’t allow it is because accepting credit card payments causes them to incur fees. Due to how credit cards work, credit card transactions are subject to fees that are set by the financial institution that issues the card, the companies that partner with the financial institution (like Visa and Mastercard), and the processor responsible for securing and carrying out the credit card transaction.

The amount of these fees depend on a number of things, including the merchant’s total sales volume and how credit cards are processed. Businesses that process between $10,000 and $250,000 in credit card payments annually pay between 2.87% and 4.35% per transaction, according to Square. This means that if a tenant were to charge $1,000 in rent, the landlord would net about $957 to $971 — unless the cost of credit card processing was extended to the renter in the form of a surcharge. To avoid that bite, some landlords do not permit credit card payments for rent.

Even when a landlord does not allow people to pay rent using a credit card, there may be workarounds via third-party apps. These apps effectively charge renters a fee to convert their credit card payment into a form of payment their landlord accepts. Fees can range from 2.75% to 3% of every rental payment. Additionally, the landlord often has to agree to the arrangement.

Pros of Paying Rent With a Credit Card

There’s a famous old saying: “Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.” But there are some scenarios when charging the rent might make sense. Here are some of the potential pros of paying rent with your credit card.

Flexibility

Rent schedules are typically fairly rigid, with payment due at the same time each month. Though this regular schedule can be a boon for budgeting, it can be challenging for gig workers or anyone else with irregular pay periods that don’t line up with when rent is due.But if a cardholder charges the rent, that money becomes due only when their credit card bill is due, providing greater flexibility on the actual payment date.

However, it’s important to stay strict about honoring your credit card due date. Making late credit card payments can result in credit card interest charges, late fees, and even a hit to one’s credit score.

As such, individuals may want to leverage credit cards for flexibility only if they are sure they’ll have the money available when their credit card payment becomes due. In other words, even if charging rent to your credit card offers more flexibility, it’s still necessary to budget for rent each month.

Earn Rewards

While there are many basic credit cards on the market, there are also cards that reward people for spending. Rewards can come in the form of cash back, points that can be redeemed toward travel and other perks, and airline miles. For those with reward credit cards, paying rent by credit card can represent a great opportunity to rack up spending and earn those perks.

However, it’s important to do the math. Third-party fees or credit card payment surcharges can cancel out any benefit a cardholder may earn, or even ultimately cost more if fees are greater than the reward offering.

Cover Immediate Expenses

If you’re short on cash, paying rent with a credit card can buy you some time. By putting what’s likely one of your largest expenditures on your credit card, you can free up funds for more immediate expenses. Then, you’ll have a bit of time to restock your bank account by the time your credit card bill comes due.

If you do this, however, you’ll want to make sure you’re ready to pay off your credit card balance in full by the end of the month, rather than just the credit card minimum payment. Otherwise, you’ll end up accruing interest on top of the money you’ll still owe for rent.

Also take notice if you regularly charge the rent out of necessity. If you do, this merits taking a closer look into the root causes. You’ll want to figure out how you might address those issues in your monthly budget instead of constantly relying on your credit card for backup.

Cons of Paying Rent With a Credit Card

Charging the rent can be a risky proposition, given what a credit card is. Here are additional reasons why paying rent with a credit card may not be a good idea.

There May Be Extra Fees

As discussed, some landlords and third-party payment companies may tack on a surcharge for credit card payments. Let’s say the surcharge is 3%, or an extra $30 on $1,000 in monthly rent. While that may not sound like much, it adds up to $360 a year — money some individuals may prefer to spend elsewhere.

Landlord surcharges aren’t the only cost that can make it more expensive to pay rent by credit card. Making a credit card payment even a day late can increase the total amount due, thanks to interest charges and late fees. And the later the debt — in this case, rent — is paid off in full, the more interest that will accrue.

Though interest rates vary by credit card, they are often higher than other lending products, like personal loans. The average credit card annual percentage rate is over 21%. Worse, the interest compounds, so each month that cardholders do not pay off the rent in full, they’ll incur interest on both the balance and the interest that has accrued.

It Can Affect Credit Score

If you put your rent on your credit card but then don’t handle your credit card debt responsibly, it could have negative implications for your credit. Behaviors like regularly missing credit card payments can lead you to have a bad credit score, which can have serious repercussions down the road.

Your credit score reflects your creditworthiness, or the risk you pose to lenders. The number (300 to 850 for the FICO® Score and VantageScore models) affects how likely it is for you to be approved for another credit card (or a mortgage or other loan) and the interest rate you’ll have to pay. You may also need to maintain a minimum credit score to rent an apartment.

Because rent tends to be a significant expenditure in most people’s budgets, you’ll want to ensure that you’ll have the funds on hand to pay the balance in full if you do choose to charge the rent.

It Can Increase Your Credit Utilization Rate

Even if you make your payments on time, paying rent with a credit card can still affect your credit score. That’s because scores are based in part on an individual’s credit utilization ratio, which is the proportion of credit being used relative to the total available amount.

When it comes to credit utilization, the lower the better. Individuals with high credit utilization are at risk of hitting their credit limit (which can also ding their credit score). With rent likely making up a large proportion of the average individual’s expenditures, such payments can significantly increase total credit utilization. The same principle applies to other major charges as well, such as if you were to buy a car with a credit card.

Should You Pay Your Rent With a Credit Card?

Whether to pay rent with your credit card ultimately depends on your financial situation. As discussed, there are some major downsides to paying rent with your credit card, such as paying extra fees and potentially harming your credit score. You could even get into a cycle of debt if you charge your rent and then aren’t able to pay off your credit card balance in full to avoid interest charges.

If you do decide to move forward with paying rent with a credit card, proceed with caution. Do the math to make sure the rewards you may earn will actually offset the cost of any fees you’ll incur. Also verify that you’ll have the funds available within your monthly budget to pay off your accumulated credit card balance, especially since a hefty charge like rent can drive up credit utilization.

Steps for Paying Rent With a Credit Card

How you’ll pay rent with a credit card depends on whether your landlord will directly accept credit card payments for rent or whether you’ll need to go through a third-party app.

•   If your landlord does accept credit card payments: In this case, you’ll either pay your landlord directly or through an online payment portal. You’ll need to provide your credit card information, including your account number, expiration date, and CVV number. Make sure to verify the total amount. Also check to see whether there are any fees involved and if so, how much those will run.

•   If you need to go through a third-party app: Renters who need to go through a third party in order to pay rent with a credit card will first need to set up an account with one of the apps that provides this service. Make sure to find out what fees are involved before proceeding. You’ll then complete your credit card transaction through the intermediary, which will then pass along the funds to your landlord, either with a check or directly to their bank account.

Alternatives to Paying Rent With a Credit Card

Paying rent with a credit card is more like a last resort than a go-to option. If you’re wondering how to pay rent when you’re in a bind, here are some alternatives to consider:

•   Borrow money from family or friends: If you’re really in a pinch, consider asking a trusted family member or friend if they can lend you the funds. This will save you interest, and it will also save your credit score from the impact of a hard credit inquiry. Just make sure to reach an agreement about how and when you’ll pay back the money — otherwise, it could negatively affect your relationship.

•   Talk to your landlord: If you’re really struggling to come up with rent for the month, consider reaching out to your landlord. Especially if you’ve been prompt with rent payments in the past, they may be sympathetic and offer a little breathing room. Just make sure to come up with a plan in the meantime, as a break on rent won’t last forever.

•   Reach out to rental assistance resources: Another option for those who are having a hard time making rent payments is seeking out assistance. There might be local nonprofits, charities, or even government groups in your area that can offer help to those in need. You may also look into resources like 211.org or the CFPB.

The Takeaway

Can you pay rent with a credit card? Sometimes. But is it a good idea to pay rent with a credit card? If all of the numbers make sense, it could be. You’ll want to weigh both the potential pros of charging your rent to a credit card, like possibly earning rewards or gaining flexibility, against the downsides, such as possible repercussions for your credit score.

If paying with plastic is tempting, your choice of card can make a big difference in the ultimate benefits you receive. The SoFi Credit Card, for instance, allows you to earn generous cash-back rewards and possibly lower your APR through on-time payments.

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¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.


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.

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.

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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