September 19, 2024

10 Best Credit Cards for Young Adults

In this fast-paced world, young adults are not only focused on building a solid career path but are also eager to manage their finances wisely. One of the essential financial tools for them is a credit card. However, the plethora of options available in the market can often be overwhelming. This article aims to simplify this process by presenting the best credit cards for young adults, each with its own unique features and benefits. Let’s jump right in!

1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Arguably one of the best credit cards for young adults, Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers a fantastic rewards program that can be extremely lucrative for those who know how to maximize it.

Pros

  • Earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1.5% on all other purchases.

Cons

  • The card charges a foreign transaction fee, which may not be ideal for frequent international travelers.

For further details and to apply, click here.

2. American Express® Gold Card

This card is a boon for those who spend a significant amount on dining and groceries. It offers a whopping 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).

Pros

  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $4,000 on eligible purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Get up to $120 in dining credits each year, which can be used at select restaurants and food delivery services.

Cons

  • The card comes with a $250 annual fee, making it a bit expensive for some.

For more information and to apply, click here.

3. Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

This card offers a straightforward rewards program that is easy to understand and manage, making it one of the best credit cards for young adults who prefer simplicity.

Pros

  • Earn a $200 cash bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Get unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases without any category restrictions.

Cons

  • The card lacks a 0% introductory APR offer, which some other cards provide.

To apply for this card, click here.

4. Discover it® Cash Back

For young adults who love rotating bonus categories, the Discover it® Cash Back card is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first year.

Cons

  • Rotating categories require activation each quarter, which may be cumbersome for some.

More information and the application can be found here.

5. Citi® Double Cash Card

This card is perfect for those who want to earn cash back on all purchases without having to worry about specific categories.

Pros

  • Earn 2% cash back on all purchases: 1% when you buy and 1% as you pay.

Cons

  • There are no special cash back categories for higher earning potential.

For further details and to apply, click here.

6. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a fantastic option for young adults who love to travel.

Pros

  • Get 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Cons

  • Comes with a $95 annual fee.

To apply for this card, click here.

7. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

This card allows you to choose your own 3% cash back category from a list of six options, providing a personalized rewards experience.

Pros

  • Get a $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days of account opening.

Cons

  • The 3% and 2% cash back categories are capped at $2,500 in combined spending each quarter.

For more information and to apply, click here.

8. Wells Fargo Active Cash℠ Card

This card is great for young adults who want a simple yet rewarding cash back card.

Pros

  • Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Enjoy unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.

Cons

  • The card lacks a 0% introductory APR offer, which some other cards provide.

To apply for this card, click here.

9. Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

This card is ideal for those who spend heavily on groceries and streaming services.

Pros

  • Earn a $300 statement credit after spending $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months.

Cons

  • The card comes with a $95 annual fee (waived for the first year).

For more information and to apply, click here.

10. Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

This card is perfect for young adults who love to dine out and enjoy entertainment.

Pros

  • Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.

Cons

  • The card lacks a 0% introductory APR offer, which some other cards provide.

To apply for this card, click here.

Conclusion

Remember, while these are some of the best credit cards for young adults, the perfect card for you will depend on your specific spending habits and financial goals. Be sure to read the fine print and understand all the terms before applying for any credit card. Happy card hunting!

Jean

I'm a freelance writer living on the East Coast with West Indian roots. I enjoy writing about personal finance, budgeting, investing strategies and self-improvement. When I'm not writing, you can find me dabbling in creative projects or spending time with my family and friends.

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