Student Loan Delinquencies Hit 20-Year High As Consumer Debt Stress Builds

Serious delinquencies, defined as payments 90 days or more past due, have been trending upward, with student loans showing the most notable increase. Delinquency rates on student debt have climbed above 16%, reaching their highest level in the past two decades. Since 2022, delinquency rates for credit cards, auto loans, and mortgages have also edged higher, with credit cards leading at around 7%. These trends offer an important snapshot of consumer financial health. While most categories remain near or below historical averages, the sharp rise in student loan delinquencies is a key risk to watch as it approaches record highs.

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of New York, The Business Week Graphic

This graph was produced by Lucas Juery, CFA, CFPⓇ and is not intended to provide financial advice.