If you are looking for a safe place to grow your savings while still maintaining liquidity, a money market account (MMA) can be an excellent option. In 2025, many people are asking: What is the national average money market account rate? Understanding this number is essential if you want to know whether your bank is offering you a competitive APY or if it’s time to switch to a high-yield account.
The Current National Average Money Market Account Rate
As of August 2025, the national average money market account (MMA) rate is 0.46% APY. This figure is based on data from Bankrate and reflects what the majority of U.S. banks are paying on standard MMAs.
Compared to other savings products, this rate is relatively low, especially when you consider that some online banks and credit unions are offering 4% to 4.80% APY on promotional or high-yield MMAs.
Why Is the Average Rate So Low?
The FDIC sets a national rate cap for money market accounts, which currently ranges between 0.59% and 1.34%. Most traditional banks stay close to this baseline, which keeps the national average at under 0.50%.
However, online banks and digital credit unions have much lower overhead costs, allowing them to offer higher MMA rates to attract new customers. This is why savvy savers often look beyond their local banks to find the best deals online.
Where to Find the Best MMA Rates in 2025
While the national average may be 0.46%, you don’t need to settle for this low return. Many institutions are offering significantly higher yields:
- Digital Federal Credit Union (DCU): up to 4.80% APY
- Ally Bank: around 4.25% APY
- Discover Bank: 4%+ on competitive MMA accounts
These rates are far above the national average and can help your money grow faster while still keeping funds accessible.
How to Maximize Your Money Market Earnings
If you want to beat the national average, here are a few smart strategies:
- Choose online banks – They typically offer the highest rates.
- Meet minimum balance requirements – Some MMAs require $1,000 or more to unlock the best APYs.
- Compare weekly – Rates change often, so always check updated lists of the best MMA rates.
- Avoid high-fee accounts – Fees can eat away at your earnings, even if the APY is high.
Bottom Line
The national average money market account rate in 2025 is 0.46% APY, but you don’t have to settle for that. By shopping around and considering online banks or credit unions, you can easily find accounts paying 4% to 4.80% APY—almost 10 times higher than the average.
If your money is sitting in a traditional bank account earning under 1%, now is the perfect time to switch and start earning more.
money market account, national average rate, high yield accounts, FDIC, savings tips, personal finance, investing for beginners, best banks 2025, make money online, APY rates