How much credit card does the average American have?
Sophia Koch
Updated on January 20, 2026
While Americans, on average, have nearly four credit cards each, that’s only a national average. When it comes to how many credit card accounts you should have, you need to base that decision on your specific financial situation.
Is it possible to live in America without credit?
Many people see debt as a necessary evil, but it still is possible to live—and thrive—without using debt or worrying about your credit scores. The benefits of debt-free living are easy to understand, but it’s important to know what challenges you’ll face and how to overcome them if you stop playing the credit game.
Does the average American have credit card debt?
On average, Americans carry $6,194 in credit card debt, according to the 2019 Experian Consumer Credit Review. And Alaskans have the highest credit card balance, on average $8,026.
Is it good to live without a credit card?
While life without credit cards makes sense for some people, it also presents a few challenges. For many young people, a credit card is the first opportunity to build credit. Living without a credit card makes it more difficult to establish a credit profile.
What’s a normal credit limit?
What’s considered a “normal” credit limit in the U.S.? While limits may vary by age and location, on average Americans have a total credit limit of $22,751 across all their credit cards, according to the latest 2019 Experian data.
Is it bad to have no debt?
Increased Security. When you have no debt, your credit score and other indicators of financial health, such as debt-to-income ratio (DTI), tend to be very good. This can lead to a higher credit score and be useful in other ways.
Why does Dave Ramsey say no credit cards?
And, for Dave’s core audience, credit cards are the wrong choice for one big reason: they can’t control their spending. That’s why they’re in debt and in pain enough to seek out money advice from a crazy-sounding guy on the radio. Indeed, spending with a credit card can lead to overspending vs.
How much credit card debt is considered normal?
The average credit card debt of U.S. families is $6,270, according to the most recent data from the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances. This information comes from data collected through 2019, representing the most reliable measure of credit card indebtedness in the U.S.
How many people in the US have credit cards?
More than 189 million Americans have credit cards, with the average credit holder having at least four cards. 1 According to Debt.org: “When the Bankruptcy Protection Act of 2005 was passed, making it more difficult for people to file for bankruptcy, there was a turn toward credit cards in a desperate attempt to pay bills.
Why are most Americans should not use credit cards?
These are the same reasons why most Americans should not use credit cards: Risk of Debt. When used as a method of payment, credit cards deliver convenience, security, a record of your spending, and potentially valuable rewards (i.e. how to use a credit card and rewards wisely).
Is it worth it to pay an annual fee for a credit card?
Some credit card companies issue cards with annual fees as a method to help you build or rebuild your credit. These cards don’t come with great rewards or benefits, but they give you a chance to establish a positive payment record on your credit reports.
What’s the average credit card balance in the US?
Below, we examine credit card statistics and trends for individuals and the industry alike. How Do People Use Credit Cards? Credit card statistics on the average American: The average American has a credit card balance of $5,313 and a credit score of 710. [1] What is the average credit card debt per person?