Introduction
On March 18, 2026, mortgage rates are showing subtle shifts that could influence your next home purchase or refinance decision. For those eyeing a purchase, Potlatch No 1 Financial offers the lowest 15-year fixed rate at 4.875%, making it an attractive option for borrowers seeking stability and savings over time. Meanwhile, jumbo loan seekers can note Zillow’s reported 30-year fixed jumbo rate of 6.24%, reflecting a slight rise but still within reach for many investors. Inflation expectations are inching up modestly, with the 5-year breakeven inflation rate climbing to 2.62%, signaling steady economic conditions ahead. Here’s what you need to know before locking in a rate to make your move smarter and more cost-effective.
New Purchase - FHA 15 yrs Fixed
Lender
2026-03-18
(Current Day)
(Current Day)
2026-03-11
(7 Days Ago)
(7 Days Ago)
2026-03-03
(15 Days Ago)
(15 Days Ago)
2026-02-16
(30 Days Ago)
(30 Days Ago)
2026-02-01
(45 Days Ago)
(45 Days Ago)
2026-01-17
(60 Days Ago)
(60 Days Ago)
2025-12-18
(90 Days Ago)
(90 Days Ago)
2025-09-19
(180 Days Ago)
(180 Days Ago)
5.13%
5.13%
5.00%
-12.5 bps
4.88%
-25 bps
5.00%
-12.5 bps
4.88%
-25 bps
5.00%
-12.5 bps
5.25%
+12.5 bps
5.13%
5.00%
-12.5 bps
4.99%
-13.5 bps
4.75%
-37.5 bps
4.88%
-25 bps
4.88%
-25 bps
5.00%
-12.5 bps
5.00%
-12.5 bps
4.88%
4.88%
4.50%
-37.5 bps
4.50%
-37.5 bps
4.50%
-37.5 bps
4.50%
-37.5 bps
4.50%
-37.5 bps
4.88%
New Purchase - FHA 30 yrs Fixed
Lender
2026-03-18
(Current Day)
(Current Day)
2026-03-11
(7 Days Ago)
(7 Days Ago)
2026-03-03
(15 Days Ago)
(15 Days Ago)
2026-02-16
(30 Days Ago)
(30 Days Ago)
2026-02-01
(45 Days Ago)
(45 Days Ago)
2026-01-17
(60 Days Ago)
(60 Days Ago)
2025-12-18
(90 Days Ago)
(90 Days Ago)
2025-09-19
(180 Days Ago)
(180 Days Ago)
5.63%
5.50%
-12.5 bps
5.38%
-25 bps
5.75%
+12.5 bps
5.50%
-12.5 bps
5.50%
-12.5 bps
5.63%
5.63%
5.38%
5.25%
-12.5 bps
5.25%
-12.5 bps
5.13%
-25 bps
5.25%
-12.5 bps
5.25%
-12.5 bps
5.25%
-12.5 bps
5.25%
-12.5 bps
5.38%
5.38%
5.38%
5.38%
5.50%
+12.5 bps
5.50%
+12.5 bps
5.50%
+12.5 bps
5.50%
+12.5 bps
5.25%
5.13%
-12.5 bps
5.13%
-12.5 bps
5.13%
-12.5 bps
5.13%
-12.5 bps
5.38%
+12.5 bps
5.13%
-12.5 bps
5.38%
5.38%
5.13%
-25 bps
5.25%
-12.5 bps
5.25%
-12.5 bps
5.13%
-25 bps
5.25%
-12.5 bps
5.38%
5.88%
5.75%
-12.5 bps
5.63%
-25 bps
5.75%
-12.5 bps
5.75%
-12.5 bps
5.75%
-12.5 bps
6.00%
+12.5 bps
6.00%
+12.5 bps
AVADIAN CREDIT UNION
As of March 18, 2026, the 30-Year FHA Fixed Purchase mortgage remains steady at a rate of 5.125%, showing no change over the past 7 and 30 days. This stability suggests consistent yield spreads and borrowing costs for first-time buyers or those seeking government-backed financing options. With points holding at 1.0, the upfront cost remains predictable for members evaluating long-term affordability. For borrowers prioritizing rate certainty, maintaining focus on fixed-rate products like this can mitigate interest rate volatility risk. Given the current static trend, members should assess their mortgage strategy carefully; consider refinancing only if projected savings outweigh transaction costs and align with your financial goals.
For details, visit https://www.avadiancu.com/Rates/Mortgage-Rates.
CREDIT UNION WEST CREDIT UNION
On March 18, 2026, the 15-Year Fixed Purchase mortgage rate at 5.125% with 1.0 point remained unchanged compared to one week ago but increased by 25 basis points over the past 30 days. This upward movement reflects a moderate rise in borrowing costs for homebuyers locking in shorter-term fixed rates. For members planning to purchase a home, particularly those prioritizing stable payments over time, this rate shift indicates slightly higher monthly obligations than last month. First-time buyers should weigh these changes against their budget constraints, while those considering refinancing might find fixed-rate options less advantageous if rates continue to climb. Evaluating your mortgage strategy with a focus on fixed-rate stability or potential cost savings through refinancing remains prudent.
For details, visit https://www.cuwest.org/borrowing/mortgages/purchasing-a-home.
ENT CREDIT UNION
On March 18, 2026, FHA 15-Year Fixed Purchase loans hold the lowest rate at 5.0%, unchanged over the past week but up by 12.5 basis points compared to 30 days ago. Meanwhile, the FHA 30-Year Fixed Purchase rate remains steady at 5.625%, showing no change in the last seven days but rising by 25 basis points from a month prior. These movements indicate a moderate increase in borrowing costs for fixed-rate FHA purchase mortgages, which may influence first-time buyers seeking long-term stability and affordability. Members should consider these trends when evaluating mortgage options; those prioritizing predictable payments might favor the shorter-term FHA 15-year fixed despite slightly higher monthly payments. Assess your financing strategy carefully, especially if considering purchase timing or locking rates amid gradual upward shifts.
For details, visit https://www.ent.com/rates/#:~:text=Mortgage%20purchase%20rates
GOLDENWEST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
As of March 18, 2026, 15 Year Fixed FHA Mortgage rates for purchase loans have decreased by 25 basis points, settling at 5.00%, the lowest among today’s options. This reduction slightly lowers the cost of borrowing for borrowers seeking shorter-term FHA financing, benefiting those aiming to build equity faster with more predictable payments. Conversely, the 30 Year Fixed FHA Mortgage rate increased by 12.5 basis points to 5.375%, reflecting a modest rise in yield spreads over the past week and month; this may impact first-time buyers prioritizing lower monthly payments.
Members should assess their mortgage strategy carefully, those valuing payment stability might consider locking in current fixed rates, while others could evaluate refinancing opportunities if potential savings outweigh associated costs.
For details, visit https://www.gwcu.org/rates/homeloans.
JSC FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
On March 18, 2026, the 30-year FHA Fixed Purchase mortgage rate increased by 12.5 basis points to 5.625% compared to one week ago, reflecting a modest rise in borrowing costs for government-backed homebuyers. Over the past 30 days, this rate decreased by 12.5 basis points, indicating some easing in yield spreads from earlier market levels. For first-time buyers relying on FHA loans, this slight uptick suggests higher monthly payments versus last week but remains lower than rates seen a month prior. Members considering purchase financing with fixed terms should evaluate if locking in current rates aligns with their long-term financial plans, given recent volatility. Monitoring these shifts can help optimize mortgage strategy and cost management. Consider refinancing if potential savings outweigh transaction expenses. For details, visit https://www.wellbyfinancial.com/loan/home-loans/#Rates.
MOUNTAIN AMERICA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
As of March 18, 2026, 15-year FHA fixed-rate purchase loans are priced at 5.125%, marking a 12.5 basis point increase from last week and a 37.5 basis point rise over the past month. Similarly, 30-year FHA fixed-rate purchase loans stand at 5.375%, up by 12.5 basis points weekly and 25 basis points monthly. These yield increases reflect a higher cost of borrowing for FHA buyers, particularly affecting first-time purchasers who often rely on these government-backed options. Borrowers prioritizing payment stability should consider the implications of these rising rates on monthly affordability. Given the upward trend in fixed FHA rates, members may want to evaluate their mortgage strategy carefully; those eligible for FHA financing should weigh locking in current rates against potential further increases. For details, visit https://www.macu.com/rates/home.
NUVISION FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
As of March 18, 2026, the 30-Year FHA Fixed Purchase mortgage rate remains steady at 5.375%, showing no change over the past week or month. This stability indicates a consistent cost of borrowing for first-time homebuyers and others utilizing government-backed FHA financing. Maintaining rates near this level supports predictable yield spreads and allows members to evaluate fixed-rate options with confidence in long-term payment consistency. For those assessing refinancing opportunities, unchanged rates suggest careful consideration of closing costs against potential savings. Members prioritizing financial clarity should monitor future shifts but can currently rely on stable borrowing costs for FHA purchases. Consider your mortgage strategy accordingly; fixed-rate loans offer rate certainty amid market fluctuations. For details, visit https://nuvisionfederal.com/lending/mortgage/rates.
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
On March 18, 2026, the 30-year Fixed FHA Purchase Loan carries a rate of 5.25%, marking a rise of 12.5 basis points compared to one week ago and the same increase relative to 30 days prior. This upward movement in yield spreads reflects a modest rise in the cost of borrowing for first-time and low-to-moderate income buyers relying on government-backed financing. For members considering home purchases, this means slightly higher monthly payments than earlier this month. Evaluating fixed-rate options remains prudent for those prioritizing payment stability amid these incremental increases. Additionally, prospective buyers should assess whether locking in current rates aligns with their long-term financial strategy given recent upward pressure. Consider reviewing your mortgage approach carefully to optimize affordability under evolving market conditions. For details, visit https://www.penfed.org/mortgage/mortgage-rates?_ga=GA1.1.113342144.1749209030&mcid=44478617903031329443022793571867311851.
POTLATCH NO. 1 FINANCIAL CREDIT UNION
As of March 18, 2026, 15-Year Fixed Purchase mortgage rates remain stable at 4.875%, unchanged from one week ago but up 37.5 basis points compared to 30 days prior. This rate represents the lowest yield among today’s options, offering cost-effective borrowing for buyers prioritizing shorter loan terms and quicker equity buildup. The 30-Year Fixed Purchase rate holds steady at 5.375%, with no change over seven days and a modest increase of 12.5 basis points versus one month ago, reflecting a moderate rise in long-term borrowing costs.
For members weighing financing strategies, those valuing payment stability may consider fixed-rate products amid these recent increments. First-time homebuyers might find the 15-Year Fixed appealing for reduced interest expense over time, while longer-term borrowers should evaluate the impact of slight rate upticks on overall affordability. Given market steadiness, reviewing refinancing options remains prudent when potential savings exceed associated costs.
For details, visit https://www.p1fcu.org/personal/mortgage-rates.
SCHOOLSFIRST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
As of March 18, 2026, FHA 15-Year Fixed Purchase loans hold steady at 5.125%, showing no change over the past week or month, maintaining the lowest rate among available options. In contrast, the FHA 30-Year Fixed Purchase rate increased by 12.5 basis points to 5.875% compared to seven days ago and similarly rose over the last 30 days. This widening yield spread between shorter- and longer-term FHA loans impacts borrowers prioritizing long-term affordability versus upfront cost stability. First-time buyers seeking predictable payments may benefit from the stable 15-year FHA fixed rate, while those considering longer terms should evaluate how recent increases affect total borrowing costs. Members are advised to review their mortgage strategies carefully; those with existing loans might consider refinancing if potential savings outweigh associated expenses. For details, visit https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/rates/mortgage-purchase/.
Zillow National Average
As of March 18, 2026, mortgage rates have experienced mixed movements. The 15-Year Fixed Rate Jumbo is now at 6.258%, down by 5 basis points from yesterday and up 15 basis points over the past week. Conversely, the 30-Year Fixed Rate Jumbo has decreased significantly to 6.240%, reflecting a notable decline of 75 basis points in just one day. This shift may impact borrowers' decisions, as lower rates typically enhance affordability. Monitoring these trends is crucial; potential borrowers should consider locking in the lowest rate currently available and evaluate their options based on recent changes in the market.
Federal Reserve Economic Trends
Current inflation expectations, as indicated by the Breakeven Inflation Rate 10Yr at 2.370%, remain stable, while the Breakeven Inflation Rate 5Yr has risen by 0.20 points over the past month, reflecting heightened short-term inflation concerns. Mortgage rates are experiencing notable fluctuations; the Mortgage 30Yr Average Rates have decreased significantly by 6.06 points in the last 60 days, with a current rate of 0.000%, indicating a favorable environment for borrowing. In contrast, the Mortgage 30Yr Jumbo Average Rates rose slightly by 0.12 points over the past month. Borrowers should consider these trends when evaluating financing options to optimize their borrowing costs effectively.
LendMesh
A mortgage should open doors, not close them. That’s why LendMesh was created—to make the home financing process straightforward, supportive, and free from unnecessary stress. We’ve listened to stories from first-time buyers, seasoned investors, and growing families, and we’ve woven those experiences into every tool and feature on our site. Here, you can compare rates from banks you know and credit unions you might not have discovered yet—all in a single, transparent view. Our resources are written by real financial advisors who care about your future. Curious to learn more? Dive into our Mortgage Loans page: https://www.lendmesh.com/loans/mortgage_loans and find out how easy homeownership can really be.
Conclusion
As you navigate today’s mortgage landscape, remember that even small changes in rates can add up over decades. A quarter-point increase on a 30-year fixed FHA loan might seem minor but could mean hundreds more per month or tens of thousands over the life of the loan. With rates like 4.875% on a 15-year fixed from Potlatch No 1 Financial available now, consider if a shorter term fits your budget and goals, lower rates combined with faster payoff reduce total interest paid significantly. Keep an eye on inflation trends; rising expectations may push rates higher in coming months. Whether buying or refinancing, locking in at the right moment means balancing today’s costs against tomorrow’s financial comfort. Take time to compare options and think long term, your future self will thank you.