Average HELOC Rate at 7.20% as Federal Reserve Pauses Rate Hikes

As of March 29, 2026, the average rate for home equity lines of credit (HELOC) is 7.20%, with a 52-week low recorded at 7.19% in mid-January. The national average rate for home equity loans stands at 7.47%, with a low of 7.38% noted in early December 2025. These rates follow the Federal Reserve's second pause in rate hikes for the year, while the prime rate remains unchanged at 6.75%. The stability in second mortgage rates, closely aligned to three-year lows, impacts homeowners seeking to utilize equity without altering their low primary mortgage rates. This situation may affect borrowing strategies and market dynamics in the housing sector.