Fremont California Leads US in Credit Card Delinquency Rise

The city of Fremont, California, previously recognized as one of the happiest cities in America, has experienced the highest increase in credit card delinquency rates nationwide, rising nearly 29% from 2024 to 2025 according to WalletHub. This surge is attributed more to difficulties in managing existing credit card balances than to new debt accumulation, with constant inflation and higher interest rates straining household budgets. Fremont ranked 84th in the U.S. for credit card debt in 2025, highlighting a significant financial challenge for its residents. Other cities like Plano, Texas, and Seattle also showed notable increases in delinquency rates, though none as steep as Fremont. Financial experts advise those missing payments not to panic, as credit card issuers typically report delinquency to credit bureaus only after 30 days, and hardship plans may offer temporary relief. The data reflects broader economic pressures impacting consumer credit management across multiple U.S. cities.