Score facts & stats

Question 1

What share of Americans hold a 'perfect' FICO score of 850?

Accepted Answer

about 1.2%. A perfect score is rare and typically requires years of flawless credit history.

Question 2

Under Experian's rating scale, a score of 800 to 850 earns which top label?

Accepted Answer

Exceptional. Credit bureaus each use slightly different labels, but scores in the 800s are always considered top-tier.

Question 3

In April 2021, the average American FICO score reached what level, a record high at the time?

Accepted Answer

716. Average scores climbed for years, helped in part by reduced borrowing and missed-payment relief during the pandemic.

Question 4

Below what score do lenders typically classify a borrower as 'subprime'?

Accepted Answer

670. Subprime borrowers usually face higher interest rates and stricter lending terms.

The basics