Current Refinance Rates on June 17, 2022: Rates Keep a Steady Rising Trend

Multiple closely followed mortgage refinance rates moved higher today. There was a dramatic increase in interest rates for 30-year fixed-rate refinances and 15-year fixed refinances today. The average rate on 10-year fixed refinance loans also made extremely significant gains.

Refinance rates have been consistently rising since the beginning of 2022, and homeowners can expect to see rates continue to go up over the course of this year. In response to inflation, which is at a 40-year high, the Federal Reserve has hiked interest rates three times already, and plans to raise them throughout the rest of 2022. The Fed’s moves indirectly influence the rates that homeowners will pay when refinancing a home. That means if you’re looking to shave dollars and interest off your current monthly mortgage payments, these could be the lowest rates you’ll see for a while. Make sure to think about your goals and circumstances, and compare rates and fees to find a mortgage lender who can meet your needs.

30-year fixed-rate refinance

The average 30-year fixed refinance rate right now is 5.94%, an increase of 36 basis points compared to one week ago. (A basis point is equivalent to 0.01%.) A 30-year fixed refinance will typically have lower monthly payments than a 15-year or 10-year refinance. This makes 30-year refinances good for people who are having difficulties making their monthly payments or simply want a bit more breathing room. In exchange for the lower monthly payments though, rates for a 30-year refinance will typically be higher than 15-year and 10-year refinance rates. You’ll also pay off your loan slower.

15-year fixed-rate refinance

The average 15-year fixed refinance rate right now is 5.17%, an increase of 43 basis points from what we saw the previous week. Refinancing to a 15-year fixed loan from a 30-year fixed loan will likely raise your monthly payment. On the other hand, you’ll save money on interest, since you’ll pay off the loan sooner. Interest rates for a 15-year refinance also tend to be lower than that of a 30-year refinance, so you’ll save even more in the long run.

10-year fixed-rate refinance

The average 10-year fixed refinance rate right now is 5.25%, an increase of 59 basis points compared to one week ago. You’ll pay more every month with a ten-year fixed refinance compared to a 30-year or 15-year refinance — but you’ll also have a lower interest rate. A 10-year refinance can help you pay off your house much faster and save on interest in the long run. Just be sure to carefully consider your budget and current financial situation to make sure that you can afford a higher monthly payment.

Where rates are headed

At the start of the pandemic, refinance rates dropped to historic lows, but they have been steadily climbing since the beginning of this year. Refinance rates are rising due to inflation, which is at its highest level in four decades, as well as actions taken by the Federal Reserve. The Fed recently raised interest rates by 0.75 percentage points — the highest increase in almost three decades — and plans to raise them several more times throughout 2022 to slow the economy. That means it’s a good idea to take advantage of refinancing now and lock in a decent rate before they continue going up.

We track refinance rate trends using information collected by Bankrate, which is owned by CNET’s parent company. Here’s a table with the average refinance rates reported by lenders nationwide:

Average refinance interest rates

Rates as of June 17, 2022.

How to find the best refinance rate

It’s important to understand that the rates advertised online may not apply to you. Your interest rate will be influenced by market conditions as well as your credit history and application.

Having a high credit score, low credit utilization ratio and a history of consistent and on-time payments will generally help you get the best interest rates. You can get a good feel for average interest rates online, but make sure to speak with a mortgage professional in order to see the specific rates you qualify for. To get the best refinance rates, you’ll first want to make your application as strong as possible. The best way to improve your credit ratings is to get your finances in order, use credit responsibly and monitor your credit regularly. Don’t forget to speak with multiple lenders and shop around to find the best rate.

Refinancing can be a great move if you get a good rate or can pay off your loan sooner — but consider carefully whether it’s the right choice for you at the moment.

When should I refinance?

In order for a refinance to make sense, you’ll generally want to get a lower interest rate than your current rate. Aside from interest rates, changing your loan term is another reason to refinance. When deciding whether to refinance, be sure to take into account other factors besides market interest rates, including how long you plan to stay in your current home, the length of your loan term and the amount of your monthly payment. And don’t forget about fees and closing costs, which can add up.

As interest rates have steadily increased since the beginning of the year, the pool of people eligible for refinancing has shrunk significantly. If you bought your house when interest rates were lower than current rates, you may likely not gain any financial benefit from refinancing your mortgage.