This table shows rates for adjustable-rate mortgages through U.S. Bank.
Term 10-year ARM
Rate
APR
Points
Term 7-year ARM
Rate
APR
Points
Term 5-year ARM
Rate
APR
Points
This table shows rates for adjustable-rate mortgages through U.S. Bank.
Term Rate APR
Points
10-year ARM
7-year ARM
5-year ARM

What is an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) loan?

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a loan in which the interest rate may change periodically, usually based upon a pre-determined index. The ARM loan may include an initial fixed-rate period that is typically 5 to 10 years. The interest rate then may change (adjust) each year thereafter once the initial fixed period ends. For example, with a 5/1 ARM loan for a 30-year term, your interest rate would be fixed for the initial 5 years and could fluctuate up or down each subsequent year for the next 25 years.

Should I get a fixed-rate loan or an ARM loan?

ARM loans typically feature lower rates and monthly payments than comparable fixed-rate loans during the initial rate period, but rates could increase or decrease once the initial rate expires. While many home buyers prefer the security of a fixed-rate mortgage, an ARM can be a good choice, too — especially if you know you'll be moving within the next few years.

5-year ARM loans

5/1 ARMs generally provide the lowest interest rates and monthly payments during the initial rate period. These loans are ideal for borrowers who don't want a long-term mortgage.

10-year ARM loans

10-year ARMs are increasingly popular as they combine significant savings for the initial rate period with longer protection from market-based interest-rate fluctuations.

ARM loan benefits and considerations

The best short-term ARM rates

Conventional adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) loans typically feature lower interest rates and Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) during the initial rate period than comparable fixed-rate mortgages.

Low monthly payments

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) loan lets you keep your monthly payments low during the initial term of your home loan, giving you the option to pay down your mortgage faster.

ARM home loan eligibility requirements

Credit history

Conforming loans are loans that conform to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines. They are a good choice for borrowers with very good credit, which generally means a FICO score of 740 or higher. There are also established guidelines for income and other personal financial information.

ARM loan amount

The loan amount for a conforming ARM is generally up to $726,200 for a single-family home, though limits may be higher in regions where home prices are higher. Jumbo ARMs allow borrowers to exceed the conforming loan limit for higher-valued homes.

Down payment

Most conventional ARM loans will require at least 5 percent as a down payment. For loans with lower down payment requirements, explore government-backed mortgages like VA loans and FHA loans or speak to your mortgage loan officer about other options that may be available. If the down payment is less than 20 percent on a conventional loan, mortgage insurance may be required.

Compare mortgage options to learn more or contact a mortgage officer to find out which mortgage option may be the best fit for your individual needs.