In an era where financial rewards and convenience are key, rewards credit cards have become a popular choice for savvy consumers, especially travelers. These cards offer perks such as points for free airline tickets, hotel stays, and other travel-related benefits. A recent report by J.D. Power has shed light on which credit card issuers and specific cards are most favored by users across the United States.
According to the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Study, American Express emerged as the top issuer in overall customer satisfaction. This was followed by Bank of America and Capital One, with Chase Bank, Discover, and Wells Fargo rounding out the top six. All of these institutions scored above the industry average, indicating a strong performance in meeting customer expectations.
The Factors Behind High Satisfaction
John Cabell, managing director of payments intelligence at J.D. Power, noted that the increase in overall satisfaction is driven by cardholders with higher financial health scores and no revolving debt—especially those using cards with points/miles rewards programs and annual fee cards. This suggests that users who manage their finances well and avoid carrying balances are more likely to be satisfied with their credit card choices.
However, the study also highlighted some less favorable results. Credit One Bank, Premier Bankcard, and FNBO ranked as the lowest in overall customer satisfaction, indicating potential issues with service, rewards, or user experience.
To gather its findings, J.D. Power surveyed over 37,000 credit card customers between June 2024 and June 2025. This large sample size ensures that the data reflects a broad spectrum of consumer experiences.
Best Rewards Credit Cards Without Annual Fees
For those seeking rewards without the burden of an annual fee, the Capital One Savor Rewards Card, the Citi Double Cash Card, and the Discover It Student Cash Credit Card were ranked highest. These cards provide valuable cashback and reward opportunities without the added cost of an annual fee, making them ideal for budget-conscious users.
Among co-branded cards without an annual fee, the Hilton Honors American Express Card, the Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi Card, and the Apple Card took the top three spots in overall customer satisfaction. These cards cater to specific interests, whether it’s loyalty to a hotel chain, frequent shopping at Costco, or integration with Apple devices.
High-Value Cards With Annual Fees
While some cards come with annual fees, they often provide substantial benefits that justify the cost. In this category, The Platinum Card from American Express topped the list, followed by the Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite Card, the American Express Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve, for instance, recently increased its annual fee to $795, but it offers exclusive perks such as access to over 1,400 airport lounges, $200 in annual Uber credits, and a $300 credit to Equinox gyms. These benefits make it a favorite among frequent travelers and high-spending users.
Best Airline Co-Branded Cards
For frequent flyers, the American Airlines’ Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard was the top-ranked airline co-branded card. This card offers unique rewards tailored to American Airlines’ frequent travelers, including miles accumulation, priority boarding, and other travel-related benefits.
However, the study also revealed a concerning trend. More than half of the survey respondents were described as “financially unhealthy” and carried credit card balances. This highlights the importance of responsible credit card usage, even for those who enjoy the rewards.
Broader Implications for Travel and Hospitality
Beyond credit cards, J.D. Power also evaluated other aspects of the travel industry. In its 2023 ranking of travel apps and websites, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue received the highest customer satisfaction ratings for airlines. Meanwhile, World of Hyatt, Choice Hotels, and Hilton Honors led in hotel satisfaction.
This broader perspective underscores the interconnected nature of the travel industry, where credit cards play a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience for consumers.
Conclusion
The 2025 J.D. Power Credit Card Satisfaction Study provides valuable insights into the preferences and experiences of U.S. credit card users. From top-performing issuers like American Express to high-value cards with annual fees, the data reveals a landscape where rewards, convenience, and financial responsibility intersect. For consumers, understanding these trends can help make informed decisions that align with their spending habits and travel needs.
Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a student looking for cashback, or someone aiming to build better financial health, there’s a rewards credit card that fits your lifestyle. As the market continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest offerings and satisfaction metrics will remain essential for maximizing the value of your credit card experience.
