Chase vs Wells Fargo
Both are major U.S. lenders, but they suit different borrowers. Here's how Chase and Wells Fargo stack up on the facts — loan mix, 2025 lending volume and what each does best.
Chase
Best for existing bank customers
The mortgage arm of the largest U.S. bank, with relationship pricing for eligible deposit and investment clients.
94,243 loans in 2025 · avg $703,373
Full reviewWells Fargo
Best for branch banking
One of the largest bank mortgage lenders, with a nationwide branch network and its own down-payment-assistance grants.
41,562 loans in 2025 · avg $1,159,688
Full reviewSide by side
| Chase | Wells Fargo | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Bank | Bank |
| Headquarters | New York, NY | San Francisco, CA |
| Best for | Existing bank customers | Branch banking |
| Loan types | Conventional · FHA · VA · Jumbo | Conventional · FHA · VA · Jumbo |
| Loans originated (2025) | 94,243 | 41,562 |
| Total lending (2025) | $66.3B | $48.2B |
| Average loan | $703,373 | $1,159,688 |
| Approval rate* | 85.6% | 77.7% |
Volume, average loan and approval figures: federal HMDA data (2025), FFIEC/CFPB. *Approval rate reflects each lender's channel and borrower mix (wholesale, online and refi-heavy lenders run lower because many applications never close), not selectivity — see our our HMDA study.
Which should you choose?
If you value existing bank customers, Chase has the edge; if branch banking matters more to you, lean Wells Fargo. But the winner on your loan is whichever quotes the lower APR and fees — neither reputation nor size sets your rate.
Get a Loan Estimate from both (and a third lender) in the same two-week window so it counts as one credit inquiry, then compare the APRs. Benchmark against today's today's average rates and run the numbers in the payment calculator first.
FAQ
Is Chase or Wells Fargo better?
Neither is universally "better" — it depends on your loan and profile. Chase is best for existing bank customers, while Wells Fargo is best for branch banking.
The only reliable way to decide is to get a Loan Estimate from each and compare the APR and fees for your exact scenario.
Which is bigger, Chase or Wells Fargo?
Chase originated more home loans in 2025 — about 94,243 versus 41,562 for Wells Fargo, per federal HMDA data. Size doesn't determine your rate, though.
How should I choose between them?
Shop both — plus at least one more lender — within a two-week window so it counts as a single credit inquiry. Compare the APR and the official Loan Estimate, not the headline rate, and weigh service and loan-type fit alongside price.
Independent comparison — no lender paid for placement, and all figures are from public federal data. General information, not personalized advice; confirm terms with each lender.
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