Our experts answer readers' credit card questions and write unbiased product reviews (here's how we assess credit cards). In some cases, we receive a commission from our partners; however, our opinions are our own. Terms apply to offers listed on this page.
According to myFICO.com, an average FICO score is any score that falls between 580 to 669 on a 300 to 850 scale. FICO scores below the "fair" range are generally considered "poor," while scores above that range are considered good, very good, or exceptional depending on how high they are.
Having a fair credit score isn't the end of the world, but it does mean you have some room for improvement. It also means you probably won't be able to qualify for the best credit cards and travel credit cards.
If your credit score is indeed in this range, here are some of the top cards for average credit to consider.
We're focused here on the rewards and perks that come with each card. These cards won't be worth it if you're paying interest or late fees. When using a credit card, it's important to pay your balance in full each month, make payments on time, and only spend what you can afford to pay.
Compare the Best Credit Cards for Fair or Average Credit
Best Credit Cards for Average Credit Scores of 2023
Capital One Platinum Credit Card - Product Name Only : Best no annual fee credit card for fair creditCapital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card - Product Name Only : Best cash back credit card for fair creditDiscover it® Student Cash Back - Product Name Only : Best credit card for studentsPetal® 2 "Cash Back, No Fees" Visa® Credit Card - Product Name Only : Best credit card to build creditCapital One®️ Spark®️ Classic for Business - Product Name Only : Best business credit card for fair credit
Methodology: How We Chose the Best Credit Cards for Average or Fair Credit
We evaluated credit cards for those with a fair or average credit score by looking at several factors:
- Annual fee — Some credit cards geared to folks with lower credit scores tack on an annual fee. We didn't include any of them here.
- Earning potential — Does the card earn rewards, and if so, are there bonus categories or a competitive rewards rate?
- Ease of use — Are there hoops to jump through or restrictions to be aware of, and is the card's rewards program easy to navigate?
- Options for various types of consumers — We selected a variety of cards that appeal to different types of users, from students and those new to credit to folks who want to earn cash back and access additional benefits.
Read more about how we rate credit cards at Insider.
Related: The best loans for fair credit »
Credit Card for Fair or Average Credit Frequently Asked Questions
When your credit is just "average," you know you have some work to do. Here are some additional questions and answers that can help you get the most out of your new credit card:
How do you build credit with a credit card?
To build credit with a credit card, you should use your card for regular purchases like gas and groceries, then pay your bill early or on time each month. As you use credit this way, your responsible use will be reported to the credit bureaus, Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, who should be able to use that information to increase your score over time.
Which fees should you be aware of with a credit card for a fair credit score?
Credit cards can come with an array of fees, ranging from annual fees to application fees, foreign transaction fees, late fees, returned payment fees, and over-the-limit fees. We suggest reading over each card's terms and conditions before you apply so you know which fees you might be required to pay.
How do you avoid credit card interest?
Credit card interest is charged to your balance if you do not pay your credit card bill in full each month. To avoid interest on your purchases, charge only what you can afford to pay off each month and pay your bill early or on time.
Does Amex have a credit card for fair credit?
Currently, American Express doesn't offer a credit card for fair or average credit as most Amex credit cards require you to have at least a good credit score (some as high as excellent credit) to qualify. Fortunately, plenty of other banks (like Discover, Petal, and Capital One) provide cards for folks with limited credit history.
Does Chase have a credit card for fair credit?
Chase doesn't offer credit cards specifically for fair or average credit, but it does have the new
Best No Annual Fee Credit Card for Fair Credit
If you're looking for a basic credit card you can use to build your credit score up, consider the
You won't earn any rewards with this card and there aren't a lot of perks. For the most part, you should consider this card if you want a way to build credit and start building positive credit habits without paying an annual fee.
Capital One Platinum Card Review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Fair Credit
If you have average credit but want to start earning cash back on all your purchases, check out the
This card doesn't offer an initial sign-up bonus, but you do earn a flat 1.5% back for each dollar you spend and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through the Capital One Travel Portal. There's a
Capital One QuicksilverOne Card review
Best Credit Card for Students
If you're a student with average credit and you want to build your credit history while earning cash back on all your purchases, consider the
For starters, when you enroll, you'll earn 5% back on up to $1,500 in purchases in Discover's rotating categories that change every quarter (then 1%). You'll also earn 1% back on everything else you buy
Other major benefits include a free look at your FICO score. This card also comes with no late payment fee on your first late payment, and no over-the-limit fees.
Discover it Student Cash Back Card Review
Best Credit Card to Build Credit
The
It's important to point out that you won't be able to see which merchants actually offer bonus rewards to Petal users — or the earning rates — until after you're approved for the card. That makes it difficult for folks to analyze how beneficial the
On the rewards side of the equation, you'll earn 1% cash back on eligible purchases right away. After six on-time monthly payments, cash back increases to 1.25% and after 12 on-time monthly payments, cash back grows to 1.5%. Your credit limit can be as high as $10,000, based on your credit profile, so this card can help you build credit while you keep your utilization low.
Petal 2 Visa Credit Card Review
Best Business Credit Card for Fair Credit
Finally, don't forget that it's possible to get a credit card for your small business with just "average" credit. The
This card doesn't charge any foreign transaction fees, and you'll qualify for cardholder benefits that include travel and emergency assistance services, secondary auto rental coverage, purchase protection against damage or theft, and extended warranties on eligible items that come with a manufacturer's warranty.