Read the date before comparing rates
This page shows a weekly national benchmark dated October 8, 2026. It does not collect same-day quotes from lenders. Freddie Mac publishes PMMS weekly, using application data rather than an offer tailored to an individual borrower. Check the linked source for subsequent releases.
What changed from the previous week
The 30-year fixed average rose from 7.28% on October 1 to 7.40% on October 8. The 15-year fixed average rose from 6.60% to 6.73%. Those are increases of 0.12 and 0.13 percentage point. A percentage-point change is not the same as a percent change in the rate.
Why a lender quote can differ
A quote depends on the loan program, credit profile, down payment, property and pricing choices such as points. Compare offers for the same amount and term, and ask whether the quoted rate is locked. The national average is context for the conversation, not an eligibility result.
Compare the payment and closing cash
Use a mortgage calculator to isolate principal and interest, then add taxes, insurance and other housing costs separately. Review the Loan Estimate’s closing costs and cash-to-close figures. An offer with a smaller monthly payment may require more money upfront.
How to use this benchmark
Write down the date of each quote and keep its assumptions beside it. If you obtain another quote after a market change, ask lenders to update comparable offers rather than combining figures from different days. Save your written Loan Estimates and check that each reflects the same loan type and repayment term.
Use the Plandime calculator
A borrowing decision is easier to judge when you compare the monthly payment with the total cost.
Open calculator →Sources checked for this page
- Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey · Primary source · Checked 2026-10-11
- Freddie Mac PMMS archive · Primary source · Checked 2026-10-11
- CFPB: shopping for a mortgage · Primary source · Checked 2026-10-11