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10 vs 15 years: for aggressive payers.
When you can already afford a 15-year payment, the 10-year question is whether the final squeeze is worth it. The numbers, side by side.
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10-year rates run only slightly below 15-year rates.
15-year
10-year
Cumulative interest — both terms
Frequently asked questions
How much more does the 10-year payment cost?
Roughly 35–40% above the 15-year payment for the same amount — the squeeze is real, which is why this comparison matters before committing.
How much interest does the 10-year save?
Usually 35–45% of the 15-year's total interest. In absolute dollars it's smaller than the 15-vs-30 gap, because the 15 is already cheap.
Is the 10-year worth it versus investing the difference?
Paying down at ~5.7% is a guaranteed 5.7% return. Whether markets beat that is a risk decision; this page supplies the guaranteed side precisely.
Can I get the same effect with extra payments on a 15?
Nearly — a 15-year paid like a 10 lands within a few hundred dollars, with the option to ease off. The locked 10-year rate is marginally lower.
Does this comparison work for refinancing?
Yes — enter your remaining balance as the amount and current quotes for each term; see also the refinance break-even tool for closing-cost effects.
📖 Related guide: 15 vs 30 year: the full tradeoff