In 2024, choosing the right credit card depends on your financial habits, goals, and lifestyle. From rewards programs to low interest rates, different cards offer unique perks that can fit specific needs. Here’s a look at the top 10 best credit cards in the USA, with options for cash back, travel, balance transfers, and more.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred card continues to be a favorite for frequent travelers. With a strong rewards program, it offers 2x points on travel and dining and 1x on other purchases. The card’s points are highly flexible and can be redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards or transferred to travel partners like airlines and hotels. It also comes with a large welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first three months.
Annual Fee: $95
Best For: Travel rewards enthusiasts
2. American Express® Gold Card
The American Express Gold Card is another top pick for foodies and travelers alike. It offers 4x Membership Rewards® points at restaurants and on grocery purchases (up to $25,000 per year), plus 3x points on flights. It also includes travel credits, such as a $120 dining credit at participating restaurants.
Annual Fee: $250
Best For: Dining and grocery purchases
3. Citi® Double Cash Card
If you’re looking for a straightforward cash back card, the Citi Double Cash Card is a top contender. Cardholders earn 2% cash back—1% when you buy and 1% when you pay off the balance. There’s no annual fee, making it ideal for those who want a simple, no-nonsense rewards card.
Annual Fee: $0
Best For: Simple cash back
4. Discover it® Cash Back
The Discover it® Cash Back card stands out with its rotating quarterly categories that offer 5% cash back (up to $1,500 per quarter) on purchases in select categories like grocery stores, gas stations, and online shopping, and 1% on all other purchases. What makes it even more attractive is the first-year Cashback Match™ feature, where Discover matches all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of the first year.
Annual Fee: $0
Best For: Maximizing cash back rewards
5. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture card is perfect for those who want easy-to-redeem travel rewards. You’ll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, with no complicated categories or restrictions. Miles can be used for booking flights, hotels, and more, and there’s a 75,000-mile welcome bonus after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
Annual Fee: $95
Best For: Travel flexibility and simplicity
6. Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred card is one of the best for families and everyday spending. It offers 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year), 6% on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, and 3% on transit and gas. This card is perfect for those who spend heavily in these categories.
Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
Best For: Supermarket and streaming service spending
7. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Offering unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is one of the best flat-rate cash back cards on the market. Additionally, it comes with a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, making it a great choice for those planning large purchases or consolidating debt.
Annual Fee: $0
Best For: Flat-rate cash back and balance transfers
8. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers a mix of cash back and travel rewards. You’ll earn 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% on all other purchases. The card has no annual fee and comes with a 0% introductory APR for the first 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
Annual Fee: $0
Best For: Mixed spending categories and travel
9. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
This card allows users to choose their 3% cash back category, which includes gas, online shopping, dining, and more. Additionally, you can earn 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs on up to $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter. It’s a great option for those who want control over their rewards structure.
Annual Fee: $0
Best For: Customizable cash back rewards
10. U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card
The U.S. Bank Altitude Go card is ideal for dining enthusiasts. It offers 4x points on dining, takeout, and delivery services, along with 2x points on groceries, gas, and streaming services. Plus, there’s a $15 annual streaming credit after 11 months of streaming service payments.
Annual Fee: $0
Best For: Dining and streaming rewards
Conclusion
With these top credit cards in 2024, you can find a card that fits your spending habits, whether you’re looking for cash back, travel rewards, or flexible redemption options. From no annual fee cards like the Citi Double Cash and Chase Freedom Unlimited, to premium cards like the American Express Gold, there’s a perfect match for every lifestyle and financial need. Always consider your spending patterns, fees, and the card’s reward structure to maximize benefits.