Is Your State FICO-Friendly? Mapping America’s Credit Health as We Enter 2026

Average credit score across different U.S states

Rank	Region name	Values
1	Minnesota	742
2	Wisconsin	738
3	Vermont	737
4	New Hampshire	736
5	North Dakota	735
6	Washington	735
7	Massachusetts	732
8	South Dakota	731
9	Connecticut	730
10	Hawaii	729
11	Colorado	728
12	Oregon	727
13	Nebraska	726
14	Idaho	725
15	Maine	724
16	Rhode Island	723
17	Iowa	722
18	Utah	721
19	Montana	720
20	Virginia	718
21	New Jersey	717
22	California	716
23	Maryland	715
24	Illinois	714
25	New York	713
26	Kansas	712
27	Delaware	711
28	Pennsylvania	710
29	Alaska	709
30	Wyoming	708
31	Michigan	707
32	Ohio	706
33	Arizona	705
34	Nevada	704
35	Missouri	703
36	Indiana	702
37	Florida	701
38	North Carolina	700
39	South Carolina	699
40	Kentucky	698
41	Tennessee	697
42	West Virginia	696
43	Oklahoma	695
44	Texas	695
45	Arkansas	694
46	New Mexico	693
47	Georgia	693
48	Alabama	692
49	Louisiana	690
50	Mississippi	680
51	District of Columbia	715

As the nation approaches 2026, Americans have an average credit score of approximately 715. This number indicates a period of stability following years of steady improvement.

There is considerable variation among state averages, with Minnesota at the forefront with a score of 742, while Mississippi lags behind at 680.

These disparities underscore regional economic trends and financial habits. Experts anticipate only slight changes for 2026, as scores are expected to stabilize in the face of persistent economic challenges such as inflation and high debt levels.

The accompanying table ranks states and the District of Columbia based on projected average FICO scores, utilizing data from late 2025 with minor adjustments for consistency.

Regional Patterns and Leaders

The top ranks are predominantly occupied by Northern and Midwestern states. Minnesota boasts the highest average score at 742, closely followed by Wisconsin at 738 and Vermont at 737.

The residents in these regions benefit from robust economic conditions. Higher median incomes facilitate timely bill payments, which constitute 35 percent of FICO scores.

Reduced poverty rates lower the risks of delinquency. Stable employment in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology fosters effective financial management.

New England states, including New Hampshire and Massachusetts, also perform well, with scores exceeding 730.

A well-educated populace and access to financial resources promote responsible credit practices, such as maintaining utilization rates below 30 percent.

Western states also show strong performance. Washington and Oregon achieve scores in the mid-730s and 720s, propelled by growth in the tech industry and increased wages.

Hawaii and Colorado complete the list of strong performers, where tourism and outdoor economies contribute to job stability. These areas exhibit lower debt-to-income ratios, allowing residents to sustain longer credit histories without incurring excessive debt.

Challenges in Lower-Ranking States

The southern states are predominantly found at the lower end of the rankings. Mississippi has the lowest score at 680, while Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, and Texas have scores that range from 690 to 695.

High poverty rates compel numerous households to depend on credit for basic needs, resulting in increased credit utilization and sometimes missed payments.

The median incomes in these states are below the national average, complicating debt management during economic downturns. Historical elements, such as restricted banking access in rural regions, also play a role in creating shorter credit histories.

States such as Oklahoma, Arkansas, and New Mexico encounter comparable challenges, with scores hovering around 693 to 695.

The rapid population growth in areas like Texas and Florida puts pressure on resources, leading to heightened debt levels among new residents.

West Virginia and Kentucky exemplify the economic difficulties faced in the Appalachian region, where declines in industry hinder income growth.

National Context and Projections for 2026

The national average stabilizes at 715 following gains made post-pandemic. Earlier boosts in scores were attributed to stimulus aid and the suspension of student loan payments, but the resumption of reporting and rising interest rates are now exerting pressure on consumers.

Although credit card utilization has seen a slight increase, the majority of Americans maintain their scores within the good range.

Projections for 2026 suggest minimal change. The leading states have limited potential for improvement, while those at the lower end are gradually enhancing their standings through education and recovery efforts.

The District of Columbia matches the national average of 715, a reflection of stable federal employment and urban living costs.

Key factors such as payment history and outstanding amounts account for most score variations. States with strong job markets and educational opportunities tend to cultivate better financial habits.

Disparities in the South are linked to income inequality and the pressures of living costs. Overall, scores reflect a resilient consumer health, although it is crucial to remain vigilant against the threat of increasing delinquencies.

Implications and Outlook

States with high scores attract lenders offering favorable terms, which in turn stimulates investment. Conversely, areas with lower scores encounter higher borrowing costs, which could hinder growth.

Individuals across the board can enhance their scores by making timely payments and maintaining low utilization rates.

As we move into 2026, financial literacy initiatives may help bridge gaps, fostering equitable access to financial resources nationwide.

Based on:

• Experian. (2025, August 8). What is the average credit score in the U.S.? https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/what-is-the-average-credit-score-in-the-u-s/
• FICO. (2025, April 16). Average credit score in the United States from 2005 to 2025. Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/766794/average-credit-score-usa/