15-Year vs 30-Year Mortgage: Breaking Down the Real Cost Difference

On a $300,000 home, a 15-year mortgage saves $100,000–$150,000 in interest—but monthly payments run 40–50% higher. Here's how to weigh the real trade-off.

On a $300,000 home, a 15-year mortgage saves $100,000–$150,000 in interest—but monthly payments run 40–50% higher. Here's how to weigh the real trade-off.

Refinancing into a 15-year mortgage makes sense when rates drop 0.75–1% below your current rate and you'll stay 2–4 years to recover closing costs.