The average credit score dropped in all 50 states over the past year, which indicates that Americans are struggling with things like increased debt and late payments.

WalletHub found:

California Stats
• Overall Rank: 23rd

• Decrease in California Credit Score: The average credit score in California decreased by 0.58% between Q3 2023 and Q3 2024.

• Average California Credit Score: The average credit score in California was 686 in Q3 2024.

States where credit card scores are dropping the most are Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee and the least in Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Kansas.

Analyst Chip Luipo advises, “If you use a credit card, pay the balance on time and in full every month. Even if you have a credit card that you don’t actively use, it will still gradually raise your credit score every billing period, as long as you keep the account in good standing. You should also strive to keep your credit utilization below 30% of your credit limit and work to actively pay down any long-term debts you have.”

Story Date: January 10, 2025