The third and newest ship in the Virgin Voyages fleet is Resilient Lady, which was christened in 2023 and adds yet another bright red vessel to the high seas.
Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise line known for quirky modern design, entertainment that pushes the limits and exceptional, all-included specialty dining.
Virgin Voyages Resilient Lady destinations
The Resilient Lady’s home port is in Athens, and the ship sails itineraries in the Mediterranean for part of the year. Then, to reposition itself, the ship makes a transcontinental voyage that visits Dubai, India and Southeast Asia, before cruising on to Australia and New Zealand.
The ship also spends time in Europe, making stops in the U.K., the Netherlands, Spain and Portugal, among others.
Resilient Lady ship details
Don’t expect to find a lot of differences between the Resilient Lady and its two siblings, the Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady — all three ships are nearly identical.
On the Resilient Lady, the nearly 2,800 passengers stay in just over 1,400 cabins across seven levels, ranging from solo rooms to large, impressive suites. Passengers also have access to amenities, restaurants and entertainment across another six decks, with a jogging track and yoga deck topping things off.
Expect to come aboard and find minimalist design, trendy music, lighting that changes throughout the day and a staff that sees entertaining as their raison d’etre.
Resilient Lady accommodations
The staterooms on the Resilient Lady are unique from the get-go. Instead of a traditional room key, cabins are unlocked using a bracelet made from plastic recovered from the ocean. Nearly all of the cabins come with balconies and many have a signature red hammock, allowing guests to lounge al fresco in privacy.
There are a handful of interior cabins without an ocean view. Social Insider cabins have bunk beds and are great for groups up to four, while Solo Insider cabins are smaller and perfect for the single traveler who doesn’t need a lot of space.
Both balcony and interior rooms typically have standard — and quite small — bathrooms with good lighting and wall-mounted Red Flower toiletries in the shower.
For a real treat, reserve one of the RockStar Quarters or the Mega RockStar Quarters. Some of these suites feature terrace whirlpools, living rooms and seaview showers.
Those lodged in RockStar Quarters and other suites are treated to a private area on one of the top decks known as Richard’s Rooftop. Here, the outdoor lounge serves complimentary drinks throughout the day, with live music at certain hours and whirlpools reserved for just these guests.
Other benefits of these cabins can include access to the spa’s thermal area, free laundry, comped minibars, and priority boarding. Roundtrip airport transfers are also available for these guests, and the largest suites have real guitars and amps for ensuite, self-made entertainment.
Rock Star Coordinators, otherwise known as cabin attendants, patrol the hallways of the most premium cabins to provide assistance in the room — making the bed, cleaning, helping with the ensuite record player or delivering room service.
In all staterooms, there’s an electronic tablet that controls the lights, temperature, shades, music and television. To provide extra space in some cabins, the beds can convert to a sofa during the day and revert back to a bed by night.
Resilient Lady amenities
There’s no shortage of things to do while sailing on the Resilient Lady. You can shop in the onboard boutiques, sunbathe by the pool, play basketball, enjoy arcade games, drink at the bars, test your boxing skills or relax at the spa.
The thermal spa area has steam rooms, saunas, a salt room, plunge pools, a beauty salon and spa treatment areas. Topless sunbathing is also an option on one of the upper decks.
There’s also an outdoor jogging track and free fitness classes on a fixed schedule. For a permanent reminder of your trip, visit the onboard tattoo parlor.
Resilient Lady dining
With more than 20 dining options on the ship, you can eat somewhere different daily and enjoy a variety of global cuisines.
The restaurants on the Resilient Lady are identical to those on Virgin Voyages’ other ships, and dining at all of them is included in the cruise fare. Unlike other cruise lines, you won’t pay extra to dine at specialty restaurants aboard Virgin Voyages, though some premium menu items may cost extra.
Instead of one main dining room or buffet, there’s a food hall — akin to what you might find in a high-end shopping mall — called The Galley, serving all kinds of prepared-to-order dishes. You’ll find sushi, ramen bowls, fresh salads, burgers, all-day breakfast choices, tacos, and even bento boxes with to-go goodies to take to the cabin.
Specialty restaurants include Pink Agave, a Mexican outlet with flaming skillets for fajitas and authentic fare from around the country; The Wake, featuring steak and seafood; and The Test Kitchen, serving up molecular fusion cuisine offerings. There’s also Italian cuisine, veggie-forward spots and more.
Other favorites include an ice cream bar, a carnival-inspired, 24-hour diner with popcorn and booze-infused milkshakes, and a Korean restaurant that has guests cooking barbecue and playing drinking games during dinner.
You can also pay for a dinner theater show — which includes a multi-course meal accompanied by acrobatic entertainment — or an afternoon tea paired with Champagne.
Resilient Lady beverages
One thing not included in the cost of sailing on the Resilient Lady is alcohol. There aren’t any drink packages like you’ll find on many other cruises. Instead, you can choose to pay in advance in the form of a bar tab, or as you go. If you choose to pre-pay your bar tab, you’ll get a bonus based on how much you spend.
There are numerous bars on the ship, from the rooftop pool bar to the ship’s own tap room, where you can order a beer growler to take elsewhere on the ship. And with the cruise line’s app, you can order a glass of Champagne to be delivered to you anywhere on board with just a quick shake of your phone.
For a pick-me-up, you can find all kinds of caffeinated brews at Grounds Club, and free Intelligentsia coffee is served in different venues on the ship. Travelers can also pay extra for cold-pressed juices and barista-made coffee drinks.
Resilient Lady nightlife and shows
The ship’s main hub for evening nightlife is called The Manor. Drinks flow constantly, and nightly acts include live music, comedy and even an adult-themed comedy show with audience participation. You won’t find Broadway-style musicals aboard, but there is a Greek history-inspired song and dance show.
There’s never a shortage of entertainment and talented staff perform all over the ship in bars and lounge areas, so don’t be alarmed if someone dressed as a passenger begins performing for you.
Known as “happenings” or “pop-up moments,” these impromptu improv acts add a bit of intrigue to the cruising experience.
For those who want to belt out some tunes, there’s a karaoke room. Also on the program are a casino, drag shows, fashion shows, bar crawls and even scavenger hunts.
You’ll find arcade games, themed parties (like the Scarlet Night evening) and a full roster of staff-led activities, from dance parties to pool parties.
You can keep an eye on everything by downloading the cruise line’s app or asking reception for a printed schedule. It’s easy to get around the ship since maps are posted everywhere, and the three sets of elevators are color-coded to help you know where you are (purple is at the front, blue is at the aft).
Resilient Lady inclusions
When sailing aboard Resilient Lady, you won’t pay extra for gratuities, Wi-Fi, specialty restaurants or onboard activities. However, you will have to pay extra for alcohol, destination excursions and upgraded Wi-Fi for streaming.
The cruise allows passengers to carry on board two bottles of wine per cabin at embarkation, but no liquor. This can help cut down on the cost of beverages during the sailing. Keep in mind that the drinking age changes based on where the ship is located — in the U.S. it’s 21, while in Europe and international waters the age is 18.
Resilient Lady is a treat
Virgin Voyages has managed to transform the traditional cruise experience into something both upscale, but playful enough, to appeal to all ages.
Rarely feeling crowded, the ship is hardly as large as some of the biggest in the world, and what you’ll find on this Richard Branson-born gem is exactly what you would expect from the daring British entrepreneur. Just be sure to pack an appetite, your dancing shoes and a Titanic-sized sense of humor.
(Top photo courtesy of Virgin Voyages)
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Both the Shoreditch house—which Ashby and Casely-Hayford rented for years—and the appointment-only Blewcoat showroom are front and center in Ashby’s first monograph with Rizzoli, Home, Art, Soul, along with 11 other distinctive Studio Ashby projects: think a Victorian bathhouse turned seaside villa in Brighton filled with De Gournay wallpapers in chinoiserie prints and textiles in shades of turmeric, cumin, paprika, and saffron; a San Francisco apartment where the blues of the Pacific are echoed in Murano glass and Isaac Julien prints; and a Left Bank bolthole overlooking the Seine whose 17th-century rooms were transformed in the spirit of French designer Jacques Grange.
As the book is released—and Studio Ashby celebrates its 10th anniversary—Sophie reflects on lessons from a decade in interior design, and lets Vogue in on the five common mistakes she always advises her clients to sidestep.
When you’ve installed beautiful flooring, it’s natural to be reluctant to cover it up, but having a larger rug always makes a space feel more welcoming and generous. I generally suggest ordering a carpet large enough to fit all of the furniture in a room on top of it rather than something your coffee table floats on in the middle of a space.
I’m always looking to create interesting geometric juxtapositions—putting an angular armchair next to a soft sofa, for example. That not only gives a room a more dynamic feel, but when you incorporate lots of different styles in a home rather than buying into one trend, your décor has more longevity, too.
Lighting is deceptively tricky to get right. I typically opt for ambient over directional lights. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to avoid having any bulbs visible, whether you’re looking down into a table lamp or up into a factory-style pendant.
If your house contains rooms with low ceilings—as many Victorian and Edwardian terraces do in London—paint not just the walls but the doors, the skirting board, and the ceiling the same color. It will make the space feel so much fresher and less disrupted by datums.
Whatever your budget, don’t overlook the value of art, and don’t be intimidated about buying it. If you can afford to purchase original works by blue-chip artists, that’s great, but it’s not a necessity. I always recommend that people start by going to exhibitions and getting prints of the works they loved at the end.
First it was Ubers. Then it was Wendy’s hamburgers (except the fast food chain clarified it was technically dynamic pricing, not surge pricing). But now, the real deal — surge pricing — is targeting your checked bags.
JetBlue quietly (sneakily?) introduced “peak” and “off-peak” pricing to its checked bag fees on March 22, a fact the world was alerted to because my editor happened to check the JetBlue website. That means you have to pay $5 to $10 more each way for checked bags on JetBlue when flying during busy travel times, such as the summer, much of the winter and some random weeks in the spring.
It’s a classic example of surge pricing — a type of dynamic pricing where companies only increase prices during times of high demand, but don’t lower pricing during times of low demand.
Technically, these new dynamic baggage fees won’t affect all customers like the blanket increases some other airlines, such as Alaska and Delta, recently added. Yet they also mean more complication and confusion for customers who are trying to figure out which airline offers the lowest total price for a given route.
Dynamic prices are nothing new in the travel industry. In fact, prices that rise and fall based on the balance of supply and demand are taken for granted in everything from airfare to hotel rooms and rental cars.
And airlines are increasingly relying on these add-on fees for revenue. In 2023, airlines made a record $117.9 billion worldwide in ancillary fees, according to airline consulting firm IdeaWorksCompany and car rental technology platform CarTrawler. About $33.3 billion of that was baggage fees.
Some industry experts say the move to more fluid fee prices has been a long time coming.
“Airlines have had capabilities for years to price fares based on demand. Why not other fees as well?” says Jay Sorensen, president of IdeaWorksCompany.
Sorenson notes that many airlines have been dynamically adjusting the price of seat assignment fees for years. The cost of choosing a window seat near the front of the plane for a particular flight might cost more in December than in February because of increased demand.
Yet, it seems like airlines have been so preoccupied with whether they can make more money from increasingly complex fee structures that they haven’t stopped to think about whether they should.
What makes a fare fair?
It all comes down to how we think travel companies should price their products. Sorenson thinks we are holding airlines to a standard to which we don’t hold other retailers.
“Shopping for an airline seat is like shopping at a grocery store,” he says. “If the grocery store was required to tell you beforehand how much you were going to spend, it would be ludicrous.”
The base fare is more like the shopping cart into which we toss other add-ons, such as seat assignments, premium seating upgrades and baggage. It’s up to the consumer to compare prices at different airlines, just as it’s on them to compare prices at different grocery stores.
If JetBlue wants to charge more for eggs (baggage) near the holidays, we can decide whether we want to pay the premium or shop with an airline that doesn’t, according to Sorenson.
But I would counter by saying that charging extra for checked baggage on peak dates is more akin to charging extra for the carton that carries your eggs. It feels like a tacked-on “gotcha” fee meant to sneak under most consumers’ radar rather than a meaningful price for a meaningful good.
Whatever you think about dynamic travel fees, it’s clear that they’ll become more common than less in the coming years. What can you do?
Tips for navigating dynamic fees
It’s not reasonable to keep track of which travel providers are charging which fees at which times. I can barely do it, and it’s my entire job.
Instead, it’s worth getting a sense of which airlines tend to charge higher fees overall, and, frankly, avoiding those brands if you want any add-ons at all.
For example, Frontier Airlines charges $157 each way in basic add-on fees while Southwest Airlines charges $0, according to the latest NerdWallet analysis.
So the simplest tip is to fly on Southwest Airlines. It doesn’t have dynamic prices for fees because it has so few fees, period. Two checked bags per person are free.
If that’s not feasible, you might consider getting a co-branded airline credit card, many of which offer free checked bags. Because baggage fees are becoming increasingly complex, this type of credit card lets you avoid the headache of dealing with them altogether, just as paying for Spotify Premium lets you avoid those terrible ads.
Finally, skip seat selection fees if you possibly can. These fees are sneaky and difficult to compare between airlines, but they’re almost always optional. And, as Sorensen points out, they are essentially charging for something that costs the airlines nothing.
“When something is pure margin, my advice to airlines is ‘don’t be so greedy,’” he says.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
A DIY-SAVVY homeowner has stunned her social media fans with a light feature she made using budget-friendly supplies.
She confessed that she was “obsessed” with the finished results as she showed it hanging on a wall in her home.
Kendra Nicole (@my_home_by_kendra) has garnered almost 210,000 followers on TikTok, where she shares her love of crafting.
She went viral on the app after showing the process of making a statement light feature.
She used two 4-foot pieces of wood from Home Depot, two wooden craft boxes and picture frames from Dollar Tree, and two LED battery strip lights from Walmart.
The creative painted the wood and craft boxes black before screwing them together.
She then replaced the image inside the picture frames with a sheet of marble effect paper.
Kendra attached the picture frames to the front of each craft box and ran the strip light along the back of the wooden board.
She placed the light features vertically on either side of a larger picture frame on her wall using a command hook.
She secured the cord and battery pack out of sight to make the light feature look expensive.
Most read in Lifestyle
My budget-friendly Walmart decor hack costs under $10 and will upgrade your table – people say it’s ‘a win win’
“The cord is hot glued going up the backside of the bottom half,” she said.
“It goes toward the center box, where I have the USB battery pack.”
Over 130,000 viewers liked the video and many people took to the comment section saying they wanted to make it for themselves.
“Waittt you just saved me $120,” one person wrote.
“Jaw is on the floor!! Great idea girly!” another said.
“This is insanely brilliant. I wanna do this,” a third chimed in.
“Ma’am thank you so much for this cuz why these lights so expensive,” another added.
Budget interior design tips
Interior designer Judy Hoang shared her furniture tips with The U.S. Sun.
Thrift furniture and paint it to match your decor.
Test if an item is fit for its purpose before thrifting.
Shop at Target or HomeGoods for rugs, lamps, desks, and pillows.
Invest in classic timeless pieces.
Set up smart home lighting to save money.
Kendra isn’t the only creative home decor DIYer on the app.
Another DIY enthusiast went viral on TikTok when she shared a project that cost less than $40.
Abby (@a_lil_bee) said she was inspired by Pinterest to transform her non-functioning water fountain into a fairy garden.
She bought several figurines and miniature houses from Dollar Tree as well as a soil alternative.
She and her boyfriend cleaned the decaying fountain before using the expanding soil alternative to fill the wells.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
They then spent 15 minutes decoratively placing fairies, homes, and making paths.
Abby said she was “very happy” with the result and planned to add more figurines in the future.
“I would say more than 60% of the furniture I own is vintage, upcycled, or handmade. Everything has a history, which I love,” says the designer. One case in point is the curved sectional in the living room, which, as she puts it, “screams me the loudest,” and which she thrifted and reupholstered in a House of Hackney fabric and embellished with a fringe. “I am obsessed with that fringe. There’s something about the way the light shines through it in the morning and at night,” she adds. Other novelties include decorative table lamps, accent pillows, and chandelier shades handmade by her sister, muralist and textile artist Dede Chiloiro, in the living room and bedroom.
The walls weren’t exempt from time travel. “They were too white and too new for my personal style,” says Francesca, who papered them through and through until there was no white left in sight. (Her favorite is the textured grasscloth House of Hackney wallpaper in the living room, which she says inspires the most beautiful warmth.) “What was once so sterile turned into a cozy, moody sanctuary that’s perfect for me and my chickens,” she muses. Some things, such as the natural oak floor, the living room fireplace, and the wainscoting in the dining room, were left the way they were in a deliberate effort to honor the home’s history.
Switching banks, or even just opening a new account, isn’t something people do on a whim. The decision can be driven by need, like moving to another state. Sometimes, it may result from learning more about different options. In other cases, the switch is about seeking better rates, lower or no fees, or digital access. In fact, 32% of retail banking customers nationwide say they are now open to changing their primary bank because of these concerns, per 2023 research from Rivel Banking Research.
If you’ve decided to switch to a Discover account, here’s what you need to know about getting it funded ASAP. Depending on the kind of account you’re opening—checking, savings, certificate of deposit (CD), or money market—your available options and the timing may vary.
1. Online transfer
Internal (from a Discover deposit account to a different Discover account)
If you have multiple eligible accounts at Discover (for example, a Cashback Debit and a Money Market Account), you can complete an online transfer between accounts. Just log in via the app or online banking portal and follow the simple prompts to make a transfer.
External (from an account at a different bank to a Discover account)
No minimum opening deposit is required to open a new Discover Cashback Debit or Online Savings Account. If you’re transferring funds from an account at another bank or institution and would like to initiate the transfer with Discover, we’ll need to verify you’re an owner of that account.
Here are three methods for completing the verification process with Discover:
Instant verification
With instant verification, you just need to provide details about your external account. These include your name, the account number, and the ABA routing number. With that information, Discover should be able to verify your account and transfer the funds.
Real-time verification
With this method, Discover will ask for your name, your account number, and the ABA routing number, and will also require your login information (user ID and password) that you use to sign in online to your external account. Discover will verify that your account is valid and transfer the desired amount.
Trial deposit
With trial deposit verification, Discover will request information about your external account and then make two small deposits to that account—typically a few cents each. It typically takes three to five business days for these small trial deposits to show up in your external account. You’ll then confirm the amounts of these deposits to successfully authenticate the account (once this happens, the deposits are reversed).
By going through any of the methods above, Discover will process the transfer of funds. If you opt to initiate an account transfer at your other bank, you’ll need to share Discover’s routing number—031100649—and your account number to add an initial deposit to your Discover account within 45 days of opening it.
Be aware that some banks may charge fees for outgoing transfers to other institutions. If you’re hoping to avoid that, check out other options for funding your account below.
2. Mobile check deposit
A smartphone and a paper check are all you need to make a mobile check deposit. First, you’ll download the Discover Mobile App (available for Android phones and iPhones, tablets, and smartwatches) and register for access to online banking. Once signed in, you can complete a mobile check deposit by following the prompts—which typically involve capturing a clear image of the front and back of the check made out to and endorsed by you.
3. Direct deposit
If you want to fund your new checking, savings, or money market account through direct deposit, you may be able to automatically enroll your Discover Bank account with Discover online or in the app. You may also be able to sign up directly through your employer or other payor, such as Social Security. Once you’re set up, please allow up to two pay cycles for your first deposit to appear in your account.
Tip: One perk of direct deposit through Discover Online Banking is Early Pay, which may allow you to have access to some or all of your qualifying direct deposits up to two days early.1
4. Add cash
If you’d like to fund your new checking or money market account with cash, you’ll need to wait for your debit card to arrive—usually up to 10 business days from account opening.
With your new contactless debit card and a minimum of $20 in hand, head to your nearest U.S.-based Walmart and ask a cashier to add cash directly to your account. You’ll insert or swipe your card, hand your money to the cashier, and receive a receipt. There is no fee for this service, and deposits are generally posted the same day.
Other funding options
If none of these options work for you, you can also fund a Discover Cashback Debit, Online Savings, CD, or Money Market Account by mailing in a check (payable to you) and deposit slip, or initiating a wire transfer.2
Now you’re ready to bank
You’ve funded your new account. Maybe you’ve even set up direct deposit or downloaded the mobile app. Regardless of how you bank, your bank should work for you, so make sure to check out all the benefits of a Discover Cashback Debit account.
Ready to make the switch? Click here to learn more about Discover’s Cashback Debit checking account.
1 The Early Pay feature is automatically available to checking, savings (excluding IRA savings) and money market customers who receive qualifying Automated Clearing House (ACH) direct deposits (such as salary, pension, or government benefits) from a business, government entity or other organization. At our discretion, and dependent on the timing of Discover’s receipt of the ACH direct deposit instructions, we may make funds from these qualifying ACH direct deposits available to you up to 2 days early. Certain ACH direct deposits are not eligible for Early Pay and other limitations and conditions apply – see our Deposit Account Agreement for more information. Deposits made by an individual using online banking or Peer-to-Peer (P2P) payments (such as Apple Pay Cash, Venmo®, Zelle ® and PayPal®) are not considered ACH direct deposits. There is no fee for Early Pay, and customers do not need to enroll in the feature.
2 Outgoing wire transfers are subject to a service charge. You may be charged a fee by a non-Discover ATM if it is not part of the 60,000+ ATMs in our no-fee network.
Articles may contain information from third parties. The inclusion of such information does not imply an affiliation with the bank or bank sponsorship, endorsement, or verification regarding the third party or information.
A home equity loan is a lump sum of money you can borrow at a fixed rate based on the equity, or ownership stake, in your home. If you already paid off 15% to 20% of your house, this one-time installment loan can be used to cover major expenses, from home renovations to paying off debt.
Home equity loans have fixed interest rates, so your monthly payments are predictable and easy to budget for. But because your home acts as collateral for the loan, you could risk foreclosure if you fall behind on repayments.
I’ve spoken with experts about the advantages and disadvantages of home equity loans, how they work and where to find the best rates. Here’s what I’ve uncovered.
This week’s home equity loan rates
Here are the average rates for home equity loans and home equity lines of credit as of March 27, 2024.
Loan type
This week’s rate
Last week’s rate
Difference
10-year, $30,000 home equity loan
8.73%
8.73%
None
15-year, $30,000 home equity loan
8.70%
8.70%
None
$30,000 HELOC
9.01%
8.99%
+0.02
Note: These rates come from a survey conducted by CNET sister site Bankrate. The averages are determined from a survey of the top 10 banks in the top 10 US markets.
Current home equity loan rates and trends
Though home equity loan rates will vary depending on the lender and loan type, their rates are generally lower than personal loans or credit card annual percentage rates.
Home equity loan rates aren’t directly set by the Federal Reserve, but adjustments to the federal funds rate impact the borrowing cost for financial products like home equity loans and home equity lines of credit, aka HELOCs.
Since March 2022, the Fed has hiked its benchmark rate a total of 11 times in an attempt to slow the economy and bring inflation down, driving home equity loan rates up alongside. Though the Fed has kept interest rates steady since last summer, home equity loan rates have remained elevated for borrowers. Home equity rates are likely to stay high until the central bank begins cutting interest rates, projected for later this year.
With home equity loans, you tap into your equity without giving up the rate on your primary mortgage, making them a popular alternative to cash-out refinances. If you use a home equity loan to install solar panels or renovate your kitchen, you get the added benefit of increasing your home’s value.
“Most homeowners with mortgages in 2024 are choosing home equity loans or HELOCs, instead of a cash-out refinance, to avoid losing their attractive interest rates,” said Vikram Gupta, head of home equity at PNC Bank.
Best home equity loan rates of March 2024
Lender
APR
Loan amount
Loan terms
Max LTV ratio
U.S. Bank
From 8.40%
Not specified
Up to 30 years
Not specified
TD Bank
7.99% (0.25% autopay discount included)
From $10,000
5 to 30 years
Not specified
Connexus Credit Union
From 7.20%
From $5,000
5 to 15 years
90%
KeyBank
From 10.29% (0.25% autopay discount included)
From $25,000
1 to 30 years
80% for standard home equity loans, 90% for high-value home equity loans
Spring EQ
Fill out application for personalized rates
Up to $500,000
Not specified
90%
Third Federal Savings & Loan
From 7.29%
$10,000 to $200,000
Up to 30 years
80%
Frost Bank
From 7.3% (0.25% autopay discount included)
$2,000 to $500,000
15 to 20 years
90%
Regions Bank
From 6.75% to 14.125% (0.25% autopay discount included)
$10,000 to $250,000
7, 10, 15, 20 or 30 years
89%
Discover
6.99% for 1st liens, 7.99% for 2nd liens
$35,000 to $300,000
10, 15, 20 or 30 years
90%
BMO Harris
From 8.84% (0.5% autopay discount not included)
From $25,000
5 to 20 years
Not specified
Note: The above annual percentage rates are current as of March 1, 2024. Your APR will depend on such factors as your credit score, income, loan term and whether you enroll in autopay or other lender specific requirements.
Best home equity loan lenders of March 2024
U.S. Bank
Good for nationwide availability
U.S. Bank is the fifth largest banking institution in the US. It offers both home equity loans and HELOCs in 47 states. You can apply for a home equity loan or HELOC through an online application, by phone or in person. If you want a loan estimate for a home equity loan without completing a full application, you can get one by speaking with a banker over the phone.
APR: From 8.40%
Max LTV ratio: Not specified
Max debt-to-income ratio: Not specified
Min credit score: 660
Loan amount: $15,000 to $750,000 (up to $1 million for California properties)
Term lengths: Up to 30 years
Fees: None
Additional requirements: Subject to credit approval
Perks: You can receive a 0.5% rate discount by enrolling in automatic payments from a U.S. Bank checking or savings account.
TD Bank
Good for price transparency
Primarily operating on the East Coast, TD Bank offers home equity loans and HELOCs in 15 states. You can apply for a TD Bank home equity loan or HELOC online, by phone or by visiting a TD Bank in person. The online application includes a calculator that will tell you the maximum amount you can borrow based on the information you input. You can also see a full breakdown of rates, fees and monthly payments. No credit check is required for this service.
APR: From 7.99% (0.25% autopay discount included)
Max LTV ratio: Not specified
Max debt-to-income ratio: Not specified
Min credit score: Not specified
Loan amount: From $10,000
Term lengths: Five to 30 years
Fees: $99 origination fee at closing. Closing costs only application to loan amounts greater than $500,000.
Additional requirements: Loan amounts less than $25,000 are available only for primary residence property use.
Perks: You will receive a 0.25% discount if you enroll in autopay from a TD personal checking or savings account.
Connexus Credit Union
Good branch network
Connexus Credit Union operates in all 50 states, but it offers home equity loans and HELOCs in 46 states (excluding Alaska, Hawaii, Maryland and Texas). The credit union has more than 6,000 local branches. To apply for a home equity loan or HELOC with Connexus, you can fill out a three-step application online or in person. You won’t be able to see a personalized rate or product terms without a credit check.
APR: From 7.20%
Max LTV ratio: 90%
Max-debt-to-income ratio: Not specified
Min credit score: Not specified
Loan amount: From $5,000
Term lengths: Five to 15 years
Fees: No annual fee. Closing costs can range from $175 to $2,000, depending on your loan terms and property location. It has returned loan payments fees of $15, convenience fees of $9.95 (for paying by debit or credit card online) and $14.95 (for paying by phone) and a forced place insurance processing fee of $12.
Additional requirements: Because Connexus is a credit union, its products and services are only available to members. Member eligibility is open to most people: you (or a family member) just need to be a member of one of Connexus’s partner groups, reside in one of the communities or counties on Connexus’s list or become a member of the Connexus Association with a $5 donation to Connexus’s partner nonprofit.
Perks: Flexible membership options
KeyBank
Good online application user experience
Based in Cleveland, KeyBank offers home equity loans to customers in 15 states and HELOCs to customers in 44 states. Aside from a standard home equity loan, KeyBank offers a few different HELOC options. The KeyBank application allows you to apply for multiple products at one time. If you’re not sure whether KeyBank loans are available in your area, the application will tell you once you input your ZIP code. If you’re an existing KeyBank customer, you can skim through the application and import your personal information from your account.
APR: From 10.29% (0.25% client discount included)
Max LTV ratio: 80% for standard home equity loans, 90% for high-value home equity loans
Max debt-to-income ratio: Not specified
Min credit score: Not specified
Loan amount: From $25,000
Term lengths: One to 30 years
Fees: Origination fee of $295. Closing costs aren’t specified.
Additional requirements: Borrowers must be at least 18 years of age and reside in one of the states KeyBank operates in.
Perks: KeyBank offers a 0.25% rate discount for clients who have eligible checking and savings accounts with them.
Spring EQ
Good option for high debt-to-income ratio limits
Spring EQ was founded in 2016 and serves customers in 38 states. Spring EQ offers home equity loans and HELOCs. Spring EQ doesn’t display rates for its home lending products online — you must complete an application to see your personalized rate. The Spring EQ loan application process is simple though. Customers can see an extensive breakdown of their loan term and rate options without needing to undergo a credit check or provide their Social Security number.
APR: Not specified
Max LTV ratio: 90%
Max debt-to-income ratio: 50%
Min credit score: 640
Loan amount: Up to $500,000
Term lengths: Not specified
Fees: Spring EQ loans may be subject to an origination fee of $995 and an annual fee of $99 in some states.
Additional requirements: Spring EQ does not display rates for its home lending products online — you must complete an application to see your personalized rate.
Perks: Spring EQ has a higher maximum DTI ratio than most other lenders — compare 50% with the typical 43% average.
Third Federal Savings & Loan
Good option for rate match guarantee
Third Federal Savings & Loan first opened in 1938. Today, the bank offers home equity loans in eight states and HELOCs in 26 states. Third Federal offers a lowest rate guarantee on its HELOCs and home equity loans, meaning Third Federal will offer you the lowest interest rate relative to other similar lenders or pay you $1,000. You can apply for a home equity loan or HELOC on the Third Federal website. You won’t have to register an account to apply, but you’re still able to save your application and return to it later.
APR: From 7.29%
Max LTV ratio: 80%
Max debt-to-income ratio: Not specified
Min credit score: Not specified
Loan amount: $10,000 to $200,000
Term lengths: Five to 30 years
Fees: Home equity loans and HELOCs with Third Federal have an annual fee of $65 (waived the first year). There are no application fees, closing fees or origination fees.
Additional requirements: Specific requirements aren’t listed.
Perks: If you set up autopay from an existing Third Federal account, you’ll be eligible for a 0.25% rate discount.
Frost Bank
Good option for Texas borrowers
Frost Bank’s home equity loans and HELOCs are only available to Texas residents. You can apply for a home equity loan or HELOC on the Frost Bank website, but you’ll need to create an account. According to the website, the application will only take you 15 minutes.
APR: From 7.3% (0.25% autopay discount included, only available for 2nd liens)
Max LTV ratio: 90%
Max debt-to-income ratio: Not specified
Min credit score: Not specified
Loan amount: $2,000 to $500,000
Term lengths: 15 or 20 years
Fees: No application fee, annual fee or closing costs. Frost Bank does charge a $15 monthly service fee, which can be waived with a Frost Plus Account.
Additional requirements: Borrowers must reside in Texas. The bank also requires proof of homeowners insurance.
Perks: 0.25% rate discount for clients who enroll in autopay from a Frost Bank checking or savings account. However, this feature is only available for second liens.
Regions Bank
Good rate discounts
Regions Bank is one of the nation’s largest banking, mortgage and wealth management service providers. Regions offers home equity loans and HELOCs in 15 states. You can apply for a Regions home equity loan or HELOC online, in person or over the phone. You’ll have to create an account with Regions to apply. Before you create an account, though, you can use the bank’s own rate calculator to estimate your rate and monthly payment.
APR: From 6.75% to 14.125%(0.25% autopay discount included)
Max LTV ratio: 89%
Max debt-to-income ratio: Not specified
Min credit score: Not specified
Loan amount: $10,000 to $250,000
Term lengths: Seven, 10, 15, 20 or 30 years
Fees: No closing costs and no annual fees. Late fees apply for 5% of the payment amount. There is a returned check fee of $15 and an over limit fee of $29.
Additional requirements: Not specified.
Perks: Rate discounts between 0.25% and 0.50% to those who elect to have their monthly payments automatically debited from a Regions checking account.
Discover
Good option for no fees or closings costs
Discover is known primarily for its credit cards, but it also offers home equity loans — available in 48 states. The lender does not offer HELOCs at all. You can apply for a home equity loan from Discover online or over the phone. The application process takes approximately six to eight weeks in total, according to Discover’s website.
APR: 6.99% for first liens, 7.99% for second liens
Max LTV ratio: 90%
Max debt-to-income ratio: 43%
Min credit score: 620
Loan amount: $35,000 to $300,000
Term lengths: 10, 15, 20 and 30 years
Fees: None
Additional requirements: Specific requirements not listed.
Perks: The lender charges no origination fees, application fees, appraisal fees or mortgage taxes.
BMO Harris
Good option for second liens
BMO Harris products and services are available in 48 states (all but New York and Texas). BMO Harris offers home equity loans and three variations of a HELOC. You can apply for a home equity loan or HELOC online or in person, but in order to get personalized rates, you’ll have to speak with a representative on the phone. Getting personalized rates doesn’t require a hard credit check.
Home equity loans from BMO Harris are only available as second liens. If you have already paid off your mortgage, a rate-lock HELOC from BMO Harris may be a better option.
APR: From 8.84% (0.5% autopay discount not included)
Max LTV ratio: Not specified
Max debt-to-income ratio: Not specified
Min credit score: 700
Loan amount: From $5,000
Term lengths: Five to 20 years
Fees: There is no application fee. BMO Harris will also pay closing costs for loans secured by an owner-occupied 1-to-4-family residence. If you pay off your loan within 36 months of opening, you may be responsible for recoupment fees.
Additional requirements: Home equity loans are only available as a second lien (meaning you can’t be mortgage free)
Perks: If you enroll in autopay with a BMO Harris checking account, you’ll be eligible for a 0.5% rate discount.
What is a home equity loan?
A home equity loan is a fixed-rate installment loan secured by your home as a second mortgage. You’ll get a lump sum payment upfront and then repay the loan in equal monthly payments over a period of time. Because your house is used as a collateral, the lender can foreclose on it if you default on your payments.
Most lenders require you to have 15% to 20% equity in your home to secure a home equity loan. To determine how much equity you have, subtract your remaining mortgage balance from the value of your home. For example, if your home is worth $500,000 and you owe $350,000, you have $150,000 in equity. The next step is to determine your loan-to-value ratio, or LTV ratio, which is your outstanding mortgage balance divided by your home’s current value. So in this case the calculation would be:
$350,000 / $500,000 = 0.7
In this example, you have a 70% LTV ratio. Most lenders will let you borrow around 75% to 90% of your home’s value minus what you owe on your primary mortgage. Assuming a lender will let you borrow up to 90% of your home equity, you can use the formula to see how that would be:
$500,000 [current appraised value] X 0.9 [maximum equity percentage you can borrow] – $350,000 [outstanding mortgage balance] = $100,000 [what the lender will let you borrow]
A standard repayment period for a home equity loan is between five and 30 years. Under the loan, you make fixed-rate payments that never change. If interest rates go up, your loan rate remains unchanged.
Second mortgages such as home equity loans and HELOCs don’t alter a homeowner’s primary mortgage. This lets you borrow against your home’s equity without needing to exchange your primary mortgage’s rate for today’s higher rates.
Home equity loans have fixed interest rates, which is a positive if you’re looking for predictable monthly payments. The rate you lock in when you take out your loan will be constant for the entire term, even if market interest rates rise.
Reasons to get a home equity loan
A home equity loan is a good choice if you need a large sum of cash all at once. You can use that cash for anything you’d like — it doesn’t have to be home-related.However, some uses make more sense than others.
Home renovations and improvements: If you want to upgrade your kitchen, install solar panels or add on a second bathroom, you can use the money from a home equity loan to pay for the cost of these renovations. Then, at tax time, you can deduct the interest you pay on the loan — as long as the renovations increase the value of your home and you meet certain IRS criteria.
Consolidating high-interest debt: Debt consolidation is a strategy where you take out one large loan to pay off the balances on multiple smaller loans, typically done to streamline your finances or get a lower interest rate. Because home equity loan interest rates are typically lower than those of credit cards, they can be a great option to consolidate your high-interest credit card debt, letting you pay off debt faster and save money on interest in the long run. The only downside? Credit card and personal loan lenders can’t take your home from you if you stop making your payments, but home equity lenders can.
College tuition: Instead of using student loans to cover the cost of college for yourself or a loved one, you can use the cash from a home equity loan. If you qualify for federal student loans, though, they’re almost always a better option than a home equity loan. Federal loans have better borrower protections and offer more flexible repayment options in the event of financial hardship. But if you’ve maxed out your financial aid and federal student loans, a home equity loan can be a viable option to cover the difference.
Medical expenses: You can avoid putting unexpected medical expenses on a credit card by tapping into your home equity before a major medical procedure. Or, if you have outstanding medical bills, you can pay them off with the funds from a home equity loan. Before you do this, it’s worth asking if you can negotiate a payment plan directly with your medical provider.
Business expenses: If you want to start a small business or side hustle but lack money to get it going, a home equity loan can provide the funding without many hoops to jump through. However, you may find that dedicated small business loans are a better, less risky option.
Down payment on a second home: Homeowners can leverage their home’s equity to fund a down payment on a second home or investment property. But you should only use a home equity loan to buy a second home if you can comfortably afford multiple mortgage payments over the long term.
Experts don’t recommend using a home equity loan for discretionary expenses like a vacation or wedding. Instead, try saving up money in advance for these expenses so you can pay for them without taking on unnecessary debt.
Pros
One lump sum payment of total loan up front.
Fixed interest rate, meaning you won’t have to worry about your rate rising over the repayment period.
Typically lower interest rate than credit cards or personal loans.
Little to no restrictions on what you can use the money for.
Cons
Your home is used as collateral, meaning it can be taken from you if you default on the loan.
If you’re still paying off your mortgage, this loan payment will be on top of that.
Home equity loans can come with closing costs and other fees.
May be hard to qualify for if you don’t have enough equity.
Home equity loan vs. HELOC
Home equity loans and HELOCs are similar but have a few key distinctions. Both let you draw on your home’s equity and require you to use your home as collateral to secure your loan. The two major differences are the way you receive the money and how you pay it back.
A home equity loan gives you the money all at once as a lump sum, whereas a HELOC lets you take money out in installments over a long period of time, typically 10 years. Home equity loans have fixed-rate payments that will never go up, but most HELOCs have variable interest rates that rise and fall with the prime rate.
A home equity loan is better if:
You want a fixed-rate payment: Your monthly payment will never change even if interest rates rise.
You want one lump sum of money: You receive the entire loan upfront with a home equity loan.
You know the exact amount of money you need: If you know the amount you need and don’t expect it to change, a home equity loan likely makes more sense than a HELOC.
A HELOC is better if:
You need money over a long period of time: You can take the money as you need it and only pay interest on the amounts you withdraw, not the full loan amount, as is the case with a home equity loan.
You want a low introductory interest rate: Although HELOC rates may increase over time, they also typically offer lower introductory interest rates than home equity loans. So you could save money on interest charges.
Home equity loans vs. cash-out refinances
A cash-out refinance is when you replace your existing mortgage with a new mortgage, typically to secure a lower interest rate and more favorable terms. Unlike a traditional refinance, though, you take out a new mortgage for the home’s entire value — not just the amount you owe on your mortgage. You then receive the equity you’ve already paid off in your home as a cash payout.
For example, if your home is worth $450,000, and you owe $250,000 on your loan, you would refinance for the entire $450,000, rather than the amount you owe on your mortgage. Your new cash-out refinance home loan would replace your existing mortgage and then offer you a portion of the equity you built (in this case $200,000) as a cash payout.
Both a cash-out refi and a home equity loan will provide you with a lump sum of cash that you’ll repay in fixed amounts over a specific time period, but they have some important differences. A cash-out refinance replaces your current mortgage payment. When you receive a lump sum of cash from a cash-out refi, it’s added back onto the balance of your new mortgage, usually causing your monthly payment to increase. A home equity loan is different — it doesn’t replace your existing mortgage and instead adds an additional monthly payment to your expenses.
Who qualifies for a home equity loan?
Although it varies by lender, to qualify for a home equity loan, you’re typically required to meet the following criteria:
At least 15% to 20% equity built up in your home: Home equity is the amount of home you own, based on how much you’ve paid toward your mortgage. Subtract what you owe on your mortgage and other loans from the current appraised value of your house to figure out your home equity number.
Adequate, verifiable income and stable employment: Proof of income is a standard requirement to qualify for a HELOC. Check your lender’s website to see what forms and paperwork you will need to submit along with your application.
A minimum credit score of 620: Lenders use your credit score to determine the likelihood that you’ll repay the loan on time. Having a strong credit score — at least 700 — will help you qualify for a lower interest rate and more amenable loan terms.
A debt-to-income ratio of 43% or less: Divide your total monthly debts by your gross monthly income to get your DTI. Like your credit score, your DTI helps lenders determine your capacity to make consistent payments toward your loan. Some lenders prefer a DTI of 36% or less.
A home equity loan is better if:
You don’t want to pay private mortgage insurance: Some cash-out refinances require PMI, which can add hundreds of dollars to your payments, but home equity loans don’t.
You can’t complete a refinance: With rates rising, it’s possible that your mortgage rate is lower than current refinance rates. If that’s the case, it likely won’t make financial sense for you to refinance. Instead, you can use a home equity loan to take out only the money you need, rather than replacing your entire mortgage with a higher interest rate loan.
A cash-out refinance is better if:
Refinance rates are lower than your current mortgage rate: If you can secure a lower interest rate by refinancing, this could save you money in interest, while providing access to a lump sum of cash.
You want only one monthly payment: The amount you borrow gets added back to the balance of your mortgage so you make only one payment to your lender every month.
Less stringent eligibility requirements: If you don’t have great credit or you have a high debt-to-income ratio, or DTI, you may have an easier time qualifying for a cash-out refi compared with a home equity loan.
Lower interest rates: Cash-out refinances sometimes offer more favorable interest rates than home equity loans.
Tips for choosing a lender
You’ll want to consider what type of financial institution best suits your needs. In addition to mortgage lenders, financial institutions that offer home equity loans include banks, credit unions and online-only lenders.
“Select a lender that makes you feel comfortable and informed with the home equity loan process,” said Rob Cook, vice president of marketing, digital and analytics for Discover Home Loans. “Look at what tools a lender makes available to borrowers to help inform their decision. For many borrowers, being able to apply and manage their application online is important.”
One option is to work with the lender that originated your first mortgage as you already have a relationship and a history of on-time payments. Many banks and credit unions also offer discounted rates and other benefits when you become a customer.
Some lenders offer lower interest rates but charge higher fees (and vice versa). What matters most is your annual percentage rate because it reflects both interest rate and fees.
Ensure the specific terms of the loan your lender is offering make sense for your budget. For example, be sure the minimum loan amount isn’t too high — be wary of withdrawing more funds than you need. You also want to make sure that your repayment term is long enough for you to comfortably afford the monthly payments. The shorter your loan term, the higher your monthly payments will be.
“Costs and fees are an important consideration for anyone who is looking for a loan,” Cook said. “Homeowners should understand any upfront or ongoing fees applicable to their loan options. Also look for prepayment penalties that might be associated with paying off your loan early.”
No matter what, it’s important to talk to numerous lenders and find the best rate available.
How to apply for a home equity loan
Applying for a home equity loan is similar to applying for any mortgage loan. You’ll need both a solid credit score and proof of enough income to repay your loan.
1. Interview multiple lenders to determine which lender can offer you the lowest rates and fees. The more companies you speak with, the better your chances of finding the most favorable terms.
2. Have at least 15% to 20% equity in your home. If you do, lenders will then take into account your credit score, income and current DTI to determine whether you qualify as well as your interest rate.
3. Be prepared to have financial documents at the ready, such as pay stubs and Form W-2s. Proof of ownership and the appraised value of your home will also be necessary.
4. Close on your loan. Once you submit your application, the final step is closing on your loan. In some states, you’ll have to do this in person at a physical branch.
FAQs
As of March 27, average home equity loan rates are 8.73% for a $30,000 10-year home equity loan and 8.70% for a $30,000 15-year home equity loan — higher than the average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage, which is currently 7.01%. Both home equity rates and mortgage rates started off at historic lows at around 3% at the beginning of 2022 and have been consistently climbing in response to the Federal Reserve aggressively raising the benchmark interest rate.
Most lenders will allow you to borrow anywhere from 15% to 20% of your home’s available equity. To calculate your home equity, subtract your remaining mortgage balance from the current appraised value of your home. How much equity a bank or lender will let you take out depends on a number of additional factors such as your credit score, income and DTI ratio. For most homeowners, it can take five to 10 years of mortgage payments to build up enough tappable equity to borrow against.
A home equity loan can affect your score positively or negatively depending on how responsibly you use it. As with any loan, if you miss or make late payments, your credit score will drop. The amount by which it will drop depends on such factors as whether you’ve made late payments before. However, HELOCs are secured loans that are backed by your property, so they tend to affect your credit score less because they’re treated more like a car loan or mortgage by credit-scoring algorithms.
Lenders are currently offering rates that start as low as 5% to 6% for borrowers with good credit, but rates can vary depending on your personal financial situation. A lender will base your interest rate on how much equity you have in your home, your credit score, income level and other aspects of your financial life such as your DTI ratio, which is calculated by dividing your monthly debts by your gross monthly income.
Home equity loans can be used for anything you choose to spend the money on. Typical life expenses that people usually take out home equity loans for are to cover expenditures such as home renovations, higher education costs like tuition or to pay off high-interest charges like credit card debt. There’s a bonus for using your loan for home improvements and renovations: the interest is tax deductible.
You can also use a home equity loan in the event of an emergency like unplanned medical expenses. Whatever you chose to use your loan for, keep in mind that taking out a large sum of money that accrues interest is an expensive choice to carefully consider, especially because you’re using your home as collateral to secure the loan. If you can’t pay back the loan, the lender can seize your home to repay your debt.
Methodology
We evaluated a range of lenders based on factors such as interest rates, APRs and fees, how long the draw and repayment periods are, and what types and variety of loans are offered. We also took into account factors that impact the user experience such as how easy it is to apply for a loan online and whether physical lender locations exist.
The constraints of a Brooklyn town house renovation might, at first glance, seem rigid and prescriptive—stacked floors, each long and narrow, bound by four exterior walls, the front one often landmarked. Inside, the primary challenge is universal: how to best bring light into that interior core. But as the architecture firm Leroy Street Studio was recently reminded, the idiosyncrasies of this classic building type can be as varied and compelling as its inhabitants.
Six years ago, the Leroy Street team was approached by Jeanne and Dennis Masel, a creative and philanthropic couple who had recently purchased a historic home in Park Slope. Originally designed by architect Fred W. Eisenla, the 1910 property hews to the British Regency style, with bowed windows, a limestone façade, a central entrance, and a street-level stoop. This was not, in other words, your typical brownstone.
Nor were the Masels your typical clients. In describing their vision for the home, Dennis, a free-spirited entrepreneur, musician, and film producer, is quick to invoke rock ‘n’ roll and fun as guiding principles. Jeanne, the founder of Art for Change, brought her own yen for whimsy and adventure, not to mention a dynamic trove of contemporary works. “Our architectural ambition had to match her commitment to art,” says Leroy Street partner Shawn Watts. “The house was already beautiful on the street but it didn’t have the spatial complexity that the clients needed for their collection.”
So he made a bold pitch: Why not completely reimagine the rear half of the house, replacing three levels with two so as to yield high ceilings and ample wall space? Whereas the lower half of that pair now contains the kitchen, dining area, and sunken family room, the upper comprises the formal living room and library. “That was our big move,” Watts explains of the staggered floor plates, noting that “by making this surgical intervention we then had to reunite the front and back.”
To do so they created a sculptural but functional staircase, with fluid curves that shift to reveal a skylight only upon ascent. Its glow, however, is felt throughout the house, fulfilling the elusive promise of a bright core. Sun, all the while, bathes the family room and library thanks to sliding window walls. “It feels like you are in the garden,” says Watts. Those blurred indoor/outdoor lines continue to the primary suite, which has a terrace of its own, as well as to the penthouse addition, which can open up to fresh air on two sides.
Art, of course, remains the focus. The mud room, accessible via a street-facing side entrance, was designed specifically for a circular work by Takashi Murakami. Framed by an archway, it now pops against magenta walls—a hue echoed in the Tracey Emin neon piece at the base of the staircase. Elsewhere are works by past collaborators with Art For Change, which partners with nonprofits to raise funds through the sale of prints. Those include the dining area’s paintings by Danielle Orchard and Hyegyeong G. Choi, and the primary bath’s site-specific mosaic by Summer Wheat. “We talked a lot about having the unexpected around each corner,” Dennis reflects of the overall mix, which remains in flux as the couple rotates pieces in and out of storage.
Are you looking for the best low stress jobs? If you currently dread going to work and are looking for something new, here’s where to start. If your current job is too stressful, you may be thinking about switching to something less intense. Lots of jobs pay well without making you feel anxious or burned…
Are you looking for the best low stress jobs? If you currently dread going to work and are looking for something new, here’s where to start.
If your current job is too stressful, you may be thinking about switching to something less intense. Lots of jobs pay well without making you feel anxious or burned out all the time.
Whether you’re making online content, helping people get fit as a personal trainer, or organizing medical records, there are many options for a job that helps you stay calm and relaxed.
Recommended reading: 40 Best Jobs Where You Work Alone
Best Low Stress Jobs
There are many low stress jobs listed below. If you want to skip the list, here are some jobs that you may want to start learning more about first:
Below are the best low stress jobs.
Note: While these jobs are low stress for some, they may not be for all. There may be a certain aspect of it that may make it low stress for you, such as being able to work alone, being able to work from home, having a flexible schedule, or doing something that you enjoy. But, nearly all jobs have some sort of stress that is a part of the job, so that is something to keep in mind. And, that doesn’t mean that these jobs are easy. Many of the jobs below are still quite difficult, requiring schooling (even getting your doctorate degree!) and hard work.
1. Blogger
If you enjoy writing and sharing ideas, becoming a blogger might be the perfect low stress job for you.
As a blogger, you have the freedom to create content on topics that interest you. Whether it’s personal finance, cooking, travel, tech, or any hobby, your blog is a space to express yourself.
I started my blog, Making Sense of Cents, in 2011 without much planning. I just wanted to talk about my own experiences with money. Surprisingly, since then, I’ve made over $5,000,000 from it. And now, blogging is my main job!
I really enjoy being able to blog full-time, and it’s much less stressful than the previous day job I had. But, it is still running my own business, so there are other stresses that come along with that, of course.
But, there are many positives as well! I can work alone, I get to make my own schedule, I am my own boss, I get to do the work that I choose to do, and I can work from home. I have an amazing work-life balance, and I wouldn’t trade this job for anything else.
So, what’s a blog? Well, it’s like what you’re reading now – it’s writing on a website. You can write a blog about something you really like, something you know a lot about, or even something you want to learn more about. People like to read blogs because they get to follow along with someone’s real experiences and journeys!
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
2. Sell printables
Selling digital printables online is a great way to work from home with less stress and make money.
Creating printables can be a less stressful job because you only need to make one digital file for each product, and then you can sell it many times. It’s also not expensive to start because all you need is a laptop or computer and an internet connection.
Plus, you can do all of this from home and on your own time.
Printables are things you can get on the internet and print at home. They could be games for a bridal shower, lists for groceries, planners for managing money, invites for events, quotes you can hang on your wall, or designs you can use for crafting.
I recommend signing up for Free Training: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free workshop will give you ideas on what types of printables you can sell, how to get started, the costs of starting a printables business, and how to make money.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
3. Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers handle money matters for businesses, and they write down sales, keep track of expenses, and create financial reports.
This job allows you to work independently, earning a typical salary of $40,000 or more each year. You’ll mainly work with numbers instead of interacting with people.
Many bookkeepers like their jobs because they work regular hours and don’t have as much pressure as some other jobs.
You don’t need a college degree to start as a bookkeeper either. This is something that you can learn to get started, as there are no education requirements.
You can join the free workshop that focuses on finding virtual bookkeeping jobs and how to begin your own freelance bookkeeping business by signing up for free here.
Recommended reading: How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs
10
This free training will teach you what you need to know to become a virtual bookkeeper and make money from home.
4. Proofreader
If you already enjoy reading articles or books and spotting errors, then you may find this job interesting.
A proofreader’s main task is to read content and look for mistakes in spelling, grammar, and punctuation. They’re the last line of defense, ensuring that everything reads perfectly before it goes out into the world. Many proofreaders enjoy the flexibility this job has, as they can often set their own hours and work from where they feel most comfortable.
Many writers, website owners, and students hire proofreaders to improve their work. There’s a big demand for proofreaders, and you can find jobs on different sites.
Even the best writers can make errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. That’s why hiring a proofreader can be extremely helpful for almost everyone.
In fact, I have a proofreader for my blog. Even though I write all day long, I know that it is very important to have a proofreader go through everything that I write.
If you want to become a proofreader, I recommend joining this free 76-minute workshop focused on proofreading. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to begin your own freelance proofreading business.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year).
10
This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
5. Transcriptionist
Transcriptionists listen to recordings and type out what they hear.
Becoming a transcriptionist is a low stress job if you’re looking for flexibility in terms of work schedules and the comfort of working from your own space.
Online transcriptionists typically earn between $15 to $30 per hour on average, with new transcribers usually starting at the lower end of that range.
A helpful free training to take is Free Workshop: Is a Career in Transcription Right for You? You’ll learn how to get started as a transcriptionist, how you can find transcription work, and more.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly
10
In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.
6. Software developer
A software developer is a person who designs, creates, tests, and keeps up software applications, systems, and programs. They’re good at programming languages and frameworks, using their skills to make solutions that meet specific needs or solve problems.
Software developers work in different fields like technology, finance, healthcare, and entertainment. They work with other team members like designers, engineers, and project managers to finish software projects well and meet the needs of users.
I know many software developers who enjoy what they do. While it is a hard job, many of them are able to work from home, travel whenever they want, and they tend to enjoy solving complex technical issues.
Other less stressful jobs in a related field include becoming a computer systems analyst, software architect, computer hardware engineer, and web developer. For these jobs, you may need a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, or a related field.
7. Massage therapist
If you’re looking for a stress-free job that lets you help others, think about being a massage therapist. Massage therapists use their hands to ease pain, help people relax, and help people feel less stressed.
Massage therapy might be a little less stressful for you because the atmosphere at work is usually calm (after all, that’s why people are going there – to relax!), and you don’t bring work home with you (so, no late night phone calls from clients!).
Massage therapists usually work in places like spas, wellness centers, or chiropractic clinics. Some may also have their own private businesses or have mobile services, which lets them have a more flexible schedule and be their own boss.
To become a massage therapist, you will need to go to school for massage therapy and pass a state exam. This typically takes around 6 months to 2 years to complete (it depends on the state you live in).
8. Personal trainer
Personal trainers help people with their fitness and being more healthy, which can mean creating workout plans, motivating them to work out, or showing the right way to lift weights.
Personal trainers work in a gym, hospital, or even go solo as a freelancer.
This job has some flexibility, which is something that many personal trainers like. You get to choose who you train, where you work, and when you have sessions. Plus, you’re not stuck at a desk all day, which keeps things fresh and fun.
9. Dental hygienist
Dental hygienists clean teeth, check for things like cavities or gum disease, and teach patients the best ways to brush and floss.
You can start this career with an associate’s degree, which usually takes about two years to finish. Plus, you may be able to make over $75,000 a year as a dental hygienist.
10. Medical records technician
If you’re in the job search for low stress jobs in healthcare, then becoming a medical records technician may be for you.
Medical records technicians handle health information data, and they make sure that all the records (both electronic health records and paper files), such as patient history, test results, and treatments, are accurate, accessible, and secure.
It’s low stress because, unlike some roles in medicine, you won’t be on the front lines dealing with emergencies. Your work environment is typically calm, allowing you to focus on your tasks without the pressure of patient care.
To become a medical records technician, you typically only need a high school diploma, but some employers may want to see a certificate related to the field or higher education.
11. Optometrist
An optometrist is an eye doctor who helps people see better. They check your eyes, find out if you need glasses, and help keep your eyes healthy.
You may like being an eye doctor because:
You usually work regular hours. People don’t typically have optometrist emergencies.
The pay is great.
It’s usually a relatively calm job.
Plus, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for optometrists is over $125,000 a year, and there is expected to be a 9% job growth outlook over the next decade.
12. Physicist
Physicists study the laws and principles that govern the universe, like gravity and motion, and how they apply to everyday life.
Most physicists work in research and development. Some work in offices, while others spend time in laboratories. There are also those who teach at universities.
The job comes with a reasonable stress level, as physicists frequently engage in deep thinking rather than dealing with tight deadlines or high-stress situations, and they typically conduct research. This can make for a fulfilling and low-pressure work environment if you enjoy physics.
To be a physicist, you will likely need a Ph.D. That means a lot of school, but it’s worth it if you love science and discovery.
13. Statistician
Being a statistician might be a perfect choice for your career if you love numbers and data.
Statisticians analyze data and identify patterns, such as by taking a bunch of numbers and turning them into useful information that companies can use to make decisions. Statisticians also might collect data from surveys and experiments.
Statisticians usually have pretty regular hours and it’s normally a quiet place to work, so you can focus just on your tasks without a bunch of noise. Plus, it’s not a job that is typically rushed, so you can take your time.
14. Mathematician
If you love numbers and problems that make you think, a related field to the above may be becoming a mathematician.
Mathematicians use mathematics to unravel patterns and address significant questions.
Mathematicians are needed in many different fields like academia, government, finance, and technology.
In academia, they work as professors and researchers, studying both theoretical and practical math ideas. Government agencies like NASA and the NSA hire mathematicians for jobs like exploring space and analyzing statistics. Financial companies hire mathematicians to make algorithms for things like evaluating risk, pricing items, and creating trading strategies. Also, big tech companies like Google and Microsoft use mathematicians to develop algorithms and analyze data.
15. Librarian
Becoming a librarian is a great job for someone who likes quiet places and books.
Being a librarian is not just about checking out books. It’s a role that’s all about helping people find information and enjoy reading.
Your main job as a librarian would be to help people find the books or online resources they need. You also get to put together fun programs, like story time for kids or book clubs. Keeping the library in tip-top shape is part of your work too, like putting books back on the shelves, managing schedules for employees and volunteers, and making sure everything is where it belongs.
Libraries are usually calm and quiet, which can make it stress-free for you. This makes your workplace quite relaxing, which is great if loud and busy spots make you feel stressed. Plus, you get to have a regular schedule.
Most librarian jobs need a bachelor’s degree at the minimum and sometimes, you will most likely need a master’s degree in library science (MLS) from an accredited program.
Librarians work in many places, such as public libraries, schools, law firms, universities, and more.
16. Orthodontist
One of the best high-paying jobs for people who don’t like stress is becoming an orthodontist.
An orthodontist is a specialized dentist who focuses on fixing teeth and jaw alignment problems. They help patients get straighter smiles and better oral health using treatments like braces, clear aligners, and retainers.
Orthodontists get extra training after dental school to become experts in diagnosing and treating issues like misaligned bites and other dental problems.
By carefully checking each patient, orthodontists make personalized plans to straighten teeth properly, leading to better-looking smiles and improved function of the teeth and jaws.
Being an orthodontist can be pretty low stress since they usually have a set schedule, seeing patients for regular appointments instead of dealing with sudden dental emergencies.
17. Groundskeeper/gardener
Becoming a groundskeeper or a gardener could be a great fit for you if you like being outside and want a stress-free job. You get to work with plants and make outdoor spaces look beautiful. This job is perfect if you’re looking for something that lets you enjoy fresh air and doesn’t have you sitting at a desk all day.
Here are some things that a groundskeeper or gardener may do:
Take care of plants and grass by watering, weeding, and trimming.
Make sure gardens look neat and are healthy.
Sometimes work with tools and machines, like lawn mowers and trimmers.
Shovel snow or take care of indoor plants.
This is one of the best low stress jobs because it is usually quiet, which makes it great for people who get overwhelmed by noisy places.
Recommended reading: 15 Outdoor Jobs For People Who Love Being Outside
18. Audiologist
Audiologists help people with their hearing, and this includes testing hearing, picking out hearing aids, and teaching people how to use them.
This is typically a low stress career choice because you get to work in an office and do similar tasks each day. You are not usually rushing around, instead you have a lot of calm one-on-one time with patients.
Audiologists work in different places like hospitals, clinics, private practices, schools, and research institutions.
19. Pet sitter
Becoming a pet sitter is a great job if you like animals and enjoy caring for them. This is a job that doesn’t typically have a lot of stress because it is not fast-paced. Plus, if you like pets, then you probably enjoy being around them, which can make the job fun.
A pet sitter’s main job is to look after pets while their owners are away. This might mean feeding them, giving them water, and playing with them. It’s important to make sure the pet feels happy and safe when their owner isn’t home.
You might have pets come to your home, or you can go to their owners’ place (this is something that is agreed upon beforehand). Dog walkers typically earn around $20 for every hour they spend walking a dog. Taking care of someone’s pet overnight can earn a person around $25 to $100 or even more each day.
I have used many pet sitters over the years for my dogs, and they all seemed to love what they do. Plus, my mother-in-law is a pet sitter as well, and she enjoys her time with the dogs that she takes care of.
20. Stock photo photographer
Stock photo photographers take photos of things like people, businesses, animals, and more, and sell them for other people to use.
Stock image sites are some of the most popular platforms for photographers to sell their pictures. These websites allow customers to purchase images for purposes such as websites, TV shows, books, and social media accounts. You can take a look at some of the stock photos I’ve purchased within this blog post as examples.
Stock photo photographers typically work by themselves, and this job can be done without much interaction with others. Most of the tasks involve using a camera and then uploading photos to a website.
As a stock picture photographer, you get to set your own schedule. This means you can choose when and where you work.
One great thing about stock photo sites is that they can be a great form of passive income. You can take pictures, upload them, and continue to earn money from those photos for months or even years into the future. Since everything is online and mostly automated, there’s no need to talk with anyone directly.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
21. Freelance writer
Freelance writers create content for clients, including blog posts, advertising materials, and more.
It’s common for freelance writers to work independently, receiving topics from clients and submitting their completed work. Occasionally, they may receive feedback, such as suggestions for improvement, but this is usually the extent of human interaction they’ll have.
This is one of the best low stress jobs from home where you work alone.
I have been a freelance writer for many years and I enjoy this job a lot. I get to work from home, make my own hours, work alone, and choose the topics that I write about.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs As A Beginner
22. Graphic designer
A graphic designer is someone who creates designs for individuals and businesses.
They create things such as images, printables, planners, T-shirt designs, calendars, business cards, social media graphics, stickers, logos, and more.
Graphic designers tend to have the freedom to set their own schedules, especially if they work as a freelancer. This job allows you to work at your own pace, and most of the time, you don’t have to deal with rush hour traffic or crowds since a lot of graphic designers can work from home.
23. Hairstylist
We’ve all been to a hairstylist, so I don’t think I need to describe this job too, too much. Hairstylists cut, style, and take care of hair.
Hair styling is lower stress because you work with clients in a relaxed setting. Also, you don’t have to sit at a desk all day – you move around and talk with people.
Plus, you can set up your day the way you like it. If you want, you can take breaks between clients. This means you won’t feel rushed and can enjoy your work more.
24. Social media manager
Social media managers engage with people online and share news, pictures, and videos on behalf of a company.
You may find this to be a low stress job because you mostly type on a computer or phone as a social media manager. So, if talking in front of people makes you nervous, this could be the perfect job. Plus, you can often work from home.
25. Virtual assistant
One of my first side gigs was working as a virtual assistant, and it was both enjoyable and flexible for earning income.
While you have a boss as a VA, many of the tasks you handle will require you to take the lead and complete them independently, usually from your own home.
A virtual assistant is someone who assists people with office tasks remotely, whether from home or while traveling. This could involve tasks such as responding to emails, scheduling appointments, and managing social media accounts.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
26. Litter cleanup worker
This is one of the least stressful jobs.
If you have a business, it’s important to keep it clean and neat. No one likes seeing trash scattered about when they’re shopping, correct?
That’s why some business owners pay someone to tidy up before their business opens. A clean space makes the place look inviting and pleasant for customers.
This low stress job without a degree can be started all by yourself, and you can earn around $30 to $50 for every hour you work. It’s quite straightforward too. All you’ll need is a broom, a dustpan, and some tools to help you pick up litter more easily.
People like this job because they can work alone and it’s easy to clean an area up.
Recommended reading: How I Started A $650,000 Per Year Litter Cleanup Business
27. Economist
Economists examine how goods and services are made, shared, and used within an economy. They use different tools, like math and stats, to grasp and predict economic patterns and actions.
Economists might work for the government, giving advice to policymakers on things like money policies and taxes. They also help businesses by explaining market trends, so they can make good decisions about prices, production, and investments.
A somewhat related field to this would be becoming an economics professor.
28. Astronomer
Astronomers study objects and events in space beyond Earth’s atmosphere, like stars, planets, galaxies, and cosmic happenings such as black holes and supernovas.
They use a mix of observations, data analysis, and theoretical models to learn about the origins, changes, and behaviors of these objects. Astronomers usually use advanced telescopes, both on the ground and in space, to observe and gather data from far-off parts of the universe.
They also work with physicists, mathematicians, and engineers to create new technologies and tools for exploring space. Through their work, astronomers help us understand big questions about the universe, like how old it is, what it’s made of, and what will happen to it in the future.
Unlike many jobs, being an astronomer means regular hours with few surprises. Plus, the quiet of a lab or observatory is perfect for staying focused and calm.
29. Actuary
Actuaries assess and handle financial risks by using math and stats to analyze data and forecast future events.
They mainly work for insurance companies, pension funds, and financial consulting firms. Actuaries examine how likely events like death, illness, accidents, and natural disasters are to happen, and what impact they could have on insurance policies and pension plans.
Based on their analysis, they help create insurance policies, decide on premiums, and suggest investment plans to make sure these financial products stay stable and have enough coverage for customers.
If you enjoy numbers and are looking for a job that’s pretty easy on stress, becoming an actuary could be a smart move. Actuaries help businesses look into the future and protect against loss.
30. Radiologist
If you’re interested in a career in the medical field that is both high-paying and considered to have lower stress, you might want to think about becoming a radiologist.
Radiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries using medical imaging techniques like X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine. They analyze images to find any abnormalities and give detailed reports to other doctors, helping with patient diagnosis and treatment plans.
Radiologists work closely with other healthcare professionals to make sure they understand the imaging results and can provide the best care for patients.
31. Data entry clerk
Data entry is one of the easiest low stress jobs without a degree needed.
Data entry clerks input, edit, and verify data in databases or spreadsheets. They enter details like numbers and names into computers to maintain organization and records.
This job can often be done remotely and independently, with little supervision or interaction with customers. For some people, this is key to having a stress-free job, and I completely get it – this is what I want as well!
Data entry positions generally pay around $15 to $20 per hour.
Recommended reading: 15 Places To Find Data Entry Jobs From Home
32. Yoga instructor
If you love helping others relax and stay fit, being a yoga instructor could be the perfect job for you if you want to find fun low stress jobs.
Yoga instructors lead classes and sessions in practicing yoga, a holistic discipline involving physical postures, breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and meditation.
They help students through different yoga poses, focusing on correct alignment, breath control, and mindfulness. Yoga instructors create a welcoming environment where students of all levels can explore and improve their practice.
33. Dietitian
A dietitian talks to clients about their eating habits and helps figure out the best way to eat healthy.
Being a dietitian is usually not too stressful. You get to chat with people one-on-one or in small groups. You don’t have to rush around or handle dangerous equipment.
They can work in places such as hospitals, clinics, schools, community health centers, and food service establishments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to find low stress jobs.
What’s the least stressful job?
The least stressful job will depend on your personality, as everyone is different. Some less stressful jobs include writing online, gardening, selling printables, and data entry. For me, I really like blogging, and I think it’s a great stress-free career that you can do at home.
How do I find a peaceful job?
If you want a peaceful job that doesn’t have a lot of stress, then I recommend first thinking about what you would find peaceful in a career, such as by looking for jobs with fewer deadlines and less contact with lots of people. Jobs where you can set your own pace, like a blogger or a freelancer, tend to have a peaceful workday. Think about what makes you feel calm, and then look for jobs that match that feeling.
What job is the easiest and pays the most?
Some jobs that are pretty easygoing and also pay well include orthodontist and optometrist. These jobs usually have regular hours and don’t need you to rush around. Plus, they pay more than enough to help you save for those things you love to buy.
What types of work-from-home jobs are low stress?
Working from home can be really laid back when you’re doing something like freelance writing, blogging, transcribing, or graphic design. You can pick the jobs you want and work when it suits you best.
What are the best low stress jobs for introverts?
If you’re quiet or introverted, then you might be interested in jobs where you can work solo or with just a few people. Jobs like a bookkeeper, transcriptionist, or data entry let you focus on your work without having to talk to many people.
What are high-stress jobs?
Some of the most stressful jobs include being a nurse, police officer, surgeon, social worker, anesthesiologist, firefighter, lawyer, airline pilot, paramedic, and in the military.
Best Low Stress Jobs – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best low stress jobs.
Nowadays, people are realizing how important it is to balance work and personal life and to take care of their mental health while lessening their anxiety about work. Some occupations, like software development and data entry, have this balance and a sense of calm.
Professionals such as dental hygienists, librarians, and dietitians also enjoy low stress roles with predictable schedules.
You don’t have to give up peace of mind to have a career. By thinking about what you’re good at and what you enjoy, you can find jobs that meet your goals while keeping stress levels low.
For me, I personally love having a career that has low stress. While it is still hard, I love that I can work from home, choose the work I do, and have a flexible schedule – all things that help me be less anxious and happier about the work that I do.
There are no significant economic data on tap today. The only notable event is the 7yr Treasury auction (the last of the week) and it’s a bit of a stretch to refer to a 7yr auction as “notable.” Far more interesting were the overnight developments in Japan, resulting in a 34yr low for Yen vs the dollar. Yen weakness has often precipitated selling of USD-denominated assets (like Treasuries) by the bank of Japan. This is never enough to completely change a trend in US rates, but it has added volatility at times. In light of that news overnight, waking up to modest gains this morning is a victory.
Here’s the longer-term relationship between rates and Yen:
There are certainly other variables in play that contribute to this generally inverse relationship and there is certainly plenty of variation over shorter time horizons. Today has proven to be a good example. The actual phenomenon of long-term lows for Yen was not a huge deal as it was just a small extension of existing weakness. Moreover, investors who’d been worried about negative comments from the Bank of Japan (BOJ) were instead treated to a more moderate approach.
In other words, there are past examples of major Yen weakness that result in the BOJ saying it will take measures to bolster the Yen. Those “measures” are either explicit promises to sell USD-denominated assets or they’re vague comments that are assumed to be the same. In today’s case, there were no such comments–at least not yet. The BOJ and Japan’s Ministry of Finance will be meeting at 6:15pm ET to discuss an official response to Yen weakness.
How much could that impact Treasuries? That remains to be seen, but it wouldn’t be nearly enough to counteract any cohesive message in domestic economic data. In other words, it would just add noise to the front line market movers for US rates.