By Matthew Coan
If you have good credit, typically defined as a credit score between 670 and 739, you’re in a prime position to access some of the best credit cards on the market. Having a good credit score opens up a world of options, allowing you to take advantage of competitive interest rates, valuable rewards programs, and exclusive perks.
But with so many cards to choose from, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. Do you want to earn cash back on everyday purchases? Or are you a frequent traveler looking for a card that maximizes your miles? Maybe you’re trying to save on interest with a balance transfer card.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top credit cards for good credit, explaining their benefits, ideal uses, and key features. Whether you're aiming to rack up rewards, enjoy lower rates, or take advantage of no annual fees, we’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the best options available to you.
Good credit allows you to qualify for credit cards with favorable terms, which can help you save money or earn valuable rewards. The best credit cards for good credit typically offer a combination of low interest rates (APRs), solid rewards programs, attractive sign-up bonuses, and minimal fees. It’s essential to choose a card that fits your lifestyle—whether that means maximizing cashback, earning travel miles, or enjoying a low-interest rate.
Credit scores typically range from 300 to 850, with scores in the 670-739 range considered “good” by most credit scoring models, such as FICO®. A good credit score indicates that you’ve been responsible in managing debt—making on-time payments, keeping your credit utilization low, and not having a history of bankruptcies or late payments.
Why Is Good Credit Important?
Credit cards available to those with good credit generally offer better terms compared to cards for those with fair or poor credit. These benefits include:
When choosing the best credit card for your good credit, it's important to evaluate several features that can make a big difference in the value you receive. Here's a breakdown of the key features to consider:
APR is the annual percentage rate you’ll pay if you carry a balance on your credit card. Good credit typically qualifies you for lower APRs, meaning you’ll pay less interest on outstanding balances. Look for cards with low ongoing APRs if you plan to carry a balance occasionally.
One of the primary reasons to choose a credit card is to earn rewards. With a good credit score, you can access credit cards that offer generous rewards programs. The most common types include:
Many cards for good credit come with enticing sign-up bonuses, often in the form of cashback or points. For instance, you may earn a bonus of 50,000 points if you spend $3,000 in the first three months of card membership. In addition, some cards offer introductory 0% APR for balance transfers or purchases for a certain period. These offers can help you save money or jumpstart your rewards earning.
Some credit cards charge an annual fee, which can range from $0 to several hundred dollars. While the benefits of premium cards (like higher rewards rates or travel perks) often justify the fee, many good credit cards offer no annual fee. If you prefer a card with no annual fee, be sure to check for this feature.
In addition to rewards, many credit cards offer a variety of perks. Some common benefits include:
In this section, we’ll go over the best credit cards for good credit across different categories, including cashback, travel rewards, balance transfers, and more.
Why it’s the best: If you're looking for the best all-around credit card, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the top picks. It offers an excellent combination of rewards, a generous sign-up bonus, and a low annual fee for its premium features.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a great option for anyone who wants to earn travel rewards, with valuable points that can be transferred to airline and hotel partners.
Why it’s the best: The Citi® Double Cash Card is ideal for those who prefer simplicity and maximum cash back. With no rotating categories to track, you earn 2% cashback on all purchases—1% when you make the purchase, and 1% when you pay for it.
If you want straightforward, no-fuss cashback on every purchase, the Citi® Double Cash Card is an excellent choice.
Why it’s the best: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is perfect for frequent travelers. It earns 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, plus a large sign-up bonus that can be redeemed for travel expenses.
With flexible redemption options and a strong earning rate on all purchases, this card is great for earning miles quickly.
Why it’s the best: If you're looking to transfer a balance and pay off existing debt, the Discover it® Balance Transfer card offers an excellent introductory 0% APR for 18 months on balance transfers.
This card provides a great option for paying down high-interest debt while earning cashback on purchases.
Why it’s the best: If you spend a lot on groceries, the American Express® Gold Card is a fantastic option. It offers 3x points on U.S. supermarket purchases (up to $25,000 per year).
If grocery shopping is one of your biggest expenses, this card can help you earn valuable rewards quickly.
Why it’s the best: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers a simple, no-annual-fee option with cashback on every purchase, plus a great intro APR offer.
With no annual fee and solid cashback rates, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® is an excellent all-around choice.
To get the most value from your credit card, consider these strategies:
Q: How can I increase my credit limit with a good credit card?
A: You can request a credit limit increase from your card issuer, or they may automatically increase your limit over time based on your credit usage and payment history.
Q: Can I get a credit card with no annual fee if I have good credit?
A: Yes! Many great credit cards with no annual fee are available for people with good credit, such as the Chase Freedom Unlimited®.
Q: How does my credit score affect my eligibility for the best cards?
A: Credit card issuers typically reserve the best cards for individuals with good or excellent credit. Having a good score (670+) will make you eligible for many premium cards with favorable terms.
Q: Should I apply for multiple credit cards at once?
A: It’s generally not recommended to apply for multiple cards in a short period. Multiple hard inquiries can temporarily lower your score, so it’s better to apply for one card at a time and focus on maximizing its benefits.
Choosing the best credit card for your needs can feel like a daunting task, but with a good credit score, you have access to some of the most rewarding and cost-effective options available. Whether you're looking for cashback, travel rewards, or a low-interest rate, there's a card that can help you maximize your financial goals.
By considering the factors that matter most to you—whether it's rewards, fees, or additional perks—you can select the perfect card to complement your lifestyle. Make sure to use the tips and strategies outlined in this article to get the most value from your credit card, and always stay on top of your payments to maintain your good credit score.
Ultimately, the best credit card for you is the one that matches your spending habits and financial goals. So take your time, compare your options, and choose the card that will work best for you.