The equity in your home that you can access and borrow is known as tappable equity. A home equity loan (HEL) can help you maximize your home equity, whether you're looking to fund home improvement projects or consolidate debt.
Alabama's home equity loan rates are above national averages — 8.2% APR for a 10-year term (7.7% nationally) and 8.4% APR for a 15-year term (7.9% nationally). We've compiled detailed insights on current home equity loan rates in Alabama, including city-specific rates, top lenders, and tips on securing the best rates for using your home's equity.
Home Equity Loan Rates in Alabama (January 2024)
The current home equity loan rates in Alabama for 10-year loans average 8.2%, compared to the national rate of 7.7%. For 15-year loans, the average is 8.4%, while the national rate stands at 7.9%.
Updated: January 15, 2025
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Key Takeaways
Higher LTV ratios lead to higher rates. The average APR for a 15-year HEL in Alabama with an 80% LTV is 8.3%, compared to 8.6% for a 90% LTV.
HEL rates vary by city in Alabama. For example, for 15-year loans, Millport has an average APR of 6.0%, whereas Midfield's is 10.7%.
Different lenders offer varying rates for the same loan types. West Alabama Bank & Trust's average APR is 6.0%, whereas PNC Bank's is 10.4%.
MoneyGeek examined 27 different banks and credit unions in Alabama using S&P Global's SNL Depository Rates dataset to stay current on the latest home equity loan rates.
This data is accurate as of January 2025.
Current Home Equity Loan Rates in Alabama
The current average APR for a 15-year home equity loan in Alabama is 8.4%, but several factors might affect what lenders offer. For instance, a higher credit score can secure you a lower APR, while a larger loan amount might lead to a higher rate. Repayment terms are another consideration. Check out the table to compare the current home equity loan rates in Alabama across different loan terms.
10Year | 8.2% |
15Year | 8.3% |
5Year | 7.9% |
Interest rates for a home equity loan change daily. Keeping track of these rates can help you pay less in interest over the life of the loan, saving you money. If you have high-interest debts, a home equity loan at a lower rate can help consolidate those debts and reduce your overall interest payments.
For example, a $50,000 home equity loan with a 15-year term at an 8.4% APR results in a monthly payment of $489 and a total interest of $38,100. In contrast, a 10-year loan with an 8.2% APR has a monthly payment of $612 and a total interest of $23,432.
Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are popular options for homeowners to tap into their home's equity. Home equity loan rates in Alabama have fixed rates, averaging 8.2%, while HELOC rates in Alabama are variable, averaging 8.3%.
Fixed rates mean consistent monthly payments, providing financial predictability. Variable rates can start lower but may increase, leading to higher payments over time.
Home Equity Loan Rates by LTV Ratio
The rate you qualify for depends on your loan-to-value ratio, which is how much you owe on your mortgage compared to your home's appraised value. To calculate your LTV ratio, divide your current mortgage balance by your home's appraised value and multiply by 100. For example, if your home is valued at $300,000 and you owe $240,000 on your mortgage, your LTV ratio is 80%.
A higher LTV ratio means greater potential risk to lenders, resulting in higher rates. Currently, the average APR of a 15-year equity loan in Alabama with an LTV ratio of 80% is 8.3%. It's 8.6% for an LTV ratio of 90%. Use the table to see what average home equity loan rates you might qualify for based on your LTV ratio.
8.1% | 8.3% |
Home Equity Loan Rates by City in Alabama
Average APRs vary between cities in Alabama due to factors like differences in property taxes or local fees, which influence overall borrowing costs. Additionally, cities with higher living costs may see slightly higher rates, as lenders face increased operational expenses.
In Alabama, Woodstock has an average APR of 6.0%, while Sumiton has an average APR of 10.9%. Below is a table showing the average home equity loan rates across Alabama cities for different terms.
10Year | 8.9% |
15Year | 9.2% |
5Year | 8.9% |
Home Equity Loan Lenders in Alabama
Home equity loan rates in Alabama can vary significantly between lenders, influenced by each lender's policies and market strategies. For instance, West Alabama Bank & Trust offers the lowest average APR at 6.0%, while PNC Bank presents the highest at 10.4%.
To secure the best home equity loan rates, comparing rates and terms from different lenders is essential. Explore our interactive table to see which lenders offer the lowest home equity loan rates in your city.
Avadian Credit Union | 6.9% |
Regions Bank | 7.3% |
Bryant Bank | 8.9% |
UNIFY Financial Federal Credit Union | 9.4% |
PNC Bank | 10.0% |
Considering credit unions in your lender options can be advantageous due to their competitive rates. In Alabama, commercial banks have an average APR of 8.4%, whereas credit unions offer a lower rate of 8.0%. While credit unions typically provide better home equity loan rates in Alabama, be prepared for stricter membership requirements.
How to Get the Best Home Equity Loan Rate in Alabama
Getting the best possible home equity interest rates can transform your borrowing experience by lowering monthly payments and reducing overall costs, allowing you to allocate funds to other financial goals. To secure the best home equity loan rates in Alabama, consider these strategies:
Compare lenders
Lenders may offer different APRs for the same loan amount and credit profile. For example, West Alabama Bank & Trust has an average APR of 6.0%, while Listerhill Credit Union offers 8.0%. Comparing home equity loan lenders in Alabama can help you find better rates.
Increase your home's equity
Having more equity in your home can result in more competitive rates from lenders. Alabama homeowners can increase their home's equity by kitchen remodels or adding sunrooms.
Improve your credit score
Increasing your credit score can lead to more competitive home equity loan rates. Pay bills on time and reduce credit card debt to improve your credit score. The average credit score in Alabama is 685, according to Equifax.
Decrease debt-to-income ratio
A lower debt-to-income (DTI) ratio — the percentage of your monthly income that goes toward paying debts — can lead to better rates as lenders see you as a less risky borrower.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Provide your income and recurring payments to calculate your DTI.
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FAQ About Home Equity Loan Rates in Alabama
MoneyGeek addresses common questions about home equity loan rates in Alabama, offering clear and factual insights to homeowners.
What is the interest rate on a home equity loan in Alabama?
As of January 2025, the average APRs for home equity loans in Alabama are 7.9% for 5-year terms, 8.2% for 10-year terms, and 8.3% for 15-year terms. The rate you qualify for may vary based on your credit score and other factors.
How do you calculate your home equity in Alabama?
To calculate your home equity, subtract your outstanding mortgage balance from your property's current market value. Understanding home equity requirements is crucial in this process.
Do home equity loan rates vary between cities in Alabama?
Yes, rates can vary. For example, Woodstock has an average APR of 6.0%, while Sumiton's is 10.9% as of January 2025.
Does a home equity loan in Alabama have tax benefits?
Interest on a home equity loan may be tax-deductible if the funds are used for home improvements. Consult a tax advisor for specific advice.
What are possible drawbacks of securing a home equity loan in Alabama?
Potential drawbacks include the risk of foreclosure if you fail to make payments and the possibility of increased debt.
How long does it take to get a home equity loan in Alabama?
The process typically takes between 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the lender and your financial situation.
How do you get a home equity loan in Alabama?
To apply, assess your eligibility for a home equity loan and ensure you meet the credit score requirements. Gather necessary documentation and approach lenders for quotes.
What can I use my funds for? Are there any home equity loan use restrictions in Alabama?
Funds can typically be used for home improvements, debt consolidation, or other major expenses. Restrictions may apply based on lender policies.
Can you only take out a home equity loan in Alabama on your primary residence?
You can apply for a home equity loan on primary residences, but options like cash-out refinance may be available for other properties.
What other home equity products can you consider if you want to tap into your home's equity in Alabama?
Consider a HELOC or a cash-out refinance. Each type of loan has its own terms and conditions.
What's the difference between a HELOC and a home equity loan?
A HELOC offers a draw period and may have an annual fee, while a home equity loan provides a lump sum with fixed interest rates.
About Zachary Romeo, CBCA
Zachary Romeo is a certified Commercial Banking and Credit Analyst (CBCA), and the Head of Loans and Banking at MoneyGeek. Previously, he led production teams for some of the largest online informational resources in higher education, with over 13 years of experience in editorial production.
Romeo has a bachelor's degree in biological engineering from Cornell University. He geeks out on minimizing personal debt and helping others do the same through people-first content.
sources
- Experian. "What Is the Average Credit Score in the U.S.?." Accessed January 15, 2025.
- TransUnion. "Home Equity Trends Report — Q4 2023." Accessed January 15, 2025.