Today's Financial Rates

What today's numbers mean

Mortgage rates eased to 6.67% from 6.69% this week—a modest improvement that reduces monthly payments by roughly $8 on a $400,000 home, or about $100 yearly. Even so, rates remain well above historical averages. The more pressing concern for most households is inflation, holding at 3.3% year-over-year. With the prime rate at 6.75%, savings accounts finally offer real returns—approximately 3.4% annually after inflation's impact. Savings earning less than 3.3% gradually lose purchasing power.

Employment remains stable with unemployment at 4.1%, supporting household income security. Gasoline averages $4.049 per gallon and crude oil sits at $84.77. The 10-year Treasury yield is at 4.72%. For household planning, the takeaway is direct: ensure savings outpace the 3.3% inflation rate to preserve and grow purchasing power. Borrowing costs—like mortgage rates at 6.67%—remain elevated by historical standards but represent the current market price for credit.