The average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage inched up to 6.49% as of July 9, 2026, from 6.43% the previous week. “Mortgage rates have been relatively stable in recent weeks, but economic growth and housing affordability continue to improve for homebuyers as they shop in today’s market,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist. At the same time, minutes from the FOMC’s June meeting indicated that only a few policymakers supported a rate increase, though officials voiced mounting concern about inflationary pressures. Financial markets are still pricing in at least one Federal Reserve rate hike by the end of 2026.