15 vs 30 Year Mortgage Calculator

Compare a 15-year and a 30-year mortgage side by side. See the monthly payment, total interest, and how much interest you save with the shorter term.

15-yr payment
2451.25
30-yr payment
1896.2
15-yr interest
141225.07
30-yr interest
382633.47
Interest saved
241408.4

How to use

  1. Enter the loan amount.
  2. Enter the interest rate for the 15-year and the 30-year mortgage.
  3. Compare the monthly payments, total interest, and interest saved.

Examples

  • $300,000 at 5.5% / 6.5%: 15-yr $2,451.25 vs 30-yr $1,896.20
  • Interest saved: $241,408.40 over the life of the loan

FAQ

Why is the 15-year payment higher?
A 15-year mortgage repays the same principal in half the time, so each monthly payment is larger even though the interest rate is usually lower.
How much interest does a 15-year mortgage save?
You pay off the balance faster and typically at a lower rate, so total interest is far lower. The calculator shows the exact difference for your numbers.
Which mortgage term is better for me?
A 15-year term saves the most interest but demands a higher monthly payment. A 30-year term frees up cash flow at a higher lifetime cost. Pick based on your budget and goals.