HELOC rates today, December 24, 2025: Lenders begin pushing rates down to the 6% range

Core Insights - The national average HELOC rate is reaching new lows for 2025, with some lenders offering rates below 7% based on credit profiles [1] - The average HELOC rate for December 2025 is reported at 7.44%, with homeowners holding nearly $36 trillion in home equity, the highest ever recorded [2] - Homeowners are likely to retain their low-rate primary mortgages, making HELOCs an attractive option for accessing home equity without selling their homes [3] HELOC Rate Structure - HELOC interest rates differ from primary mortgage rates, typically based on an index rate plus a margin, with the current prime rate at 6.75% [4] - Lenders have flexibility in pricing HELOCs, and rates can vary significantly based on credit scores and debt levels [5] - Introductory rates may be offered, but they often convert to adjustable rates after a set period, which can be substantially higher [5][7] HELOC Functionality - A HELOC allows homeowners to access equity without giving up their low-rate primary mortgage, providing flexibility in borrowing [6] - The ability to draw only what is needed from the credit line means interest is only paid on borrowed amounts [8] - For example, a $50,000 HELOC at a 7.50% interest rate would result in a monthly payment of approximately $313 during the draw period, but rates are typically variable [12] Current Market Conditions - Rates for HELOCs can range from nearly 6% to as high as 18%, depending on individual creditworthiness and lender offerings [10] - It is considered a favorable time for homeowners with low primary mortgage rates to obtain a HELOC for various uses, including home improvements or personal expenses [11]