5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) vs Real GDP Growth Rate
5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) is currently 6.2% (down -0.1%). Real GDP Growth Rate is currently 2.4% (down -0.7%).
| Metric | 5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) | Real GDP Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Current value | 6.2% | 2.4% |
| Previous reading | 6.22% | 3.1% |
| Change | -0.1% | -0.7% |
| Trend | down | down |
| Frequency | Weekly | Quarterly |
| Source | Freddie Mac | Bureau of Economic Analysis |
| Last updated | 2026-04-03 | 2026-03-27 |
| Category | rates | growth |
What 5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) measures
The 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) offers a fixed rate for the first 5 years, then adjusts annually based on a benchmark index plus a margin. ARMs typically start with a lower rate than 30-year fixed mortgages, making them attractive for buyers who plan to sell or refinance within 5-7 years.
At 6.17%, the 5/1 ARM offers a modest discount to the 30-year fixed rate of 6.64%. When this spread is narrow (under 0.5%), the risk-reward of choosing an ARM is less compelling — you take on rate adjustment risk for relatively little savings. A wider spread (1%+) makes ARMs more attractive. For real estate investors and corporate relocation programs, ARMs can reduce carrying costs on properties held for short periods.
What Real GDP Growth Rate measures
Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the inflation-adjusted value of all goods and services produced in the United States. The growth rate shows how fast the economy is expanding or contracting on an annualized quarterly basis.
GDP growth is the single most important measure of economic health. A rate above 2% signals healthy expansion; below 1% raises recession concerns. For executives, GDP growth directly affects consumer demand, business investment, and hiring plans. The current 2.4% growth rate represents moderate expansion — strong enough to sustain corporate earnings but below the 3%+ pace that typically drives aggressive hiring.
Frequently asked
5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) is currently 6.2%, down -0.1% from the previous reading. Source: Freddie Mac, updated weekly.
Real GDP Growth Rate is currently 2.4%, down -0.7% from the previous reading. Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, updated quarterly.
At 6.17%, the 5/1 ARM offers a modest discount to the 30-year fixed rate of 6.64%. When this spread is narrow (under 0.5%), the risk-reward of choosing an ARM is less compelling — you take on rate adj GDP growth is the single most important measure of economic health. A rate above 2% signals healthy expansion; below 1% raises recession concerns. For executives, GDP growth directly affects consumer