Choosing the right credit card in 2025 is more important than ever. With rising costs of living, inflation, and changes in spending behavior, Americans are looking for credit cards that provide maximum value through cashback and rewards. If you're planning to optimize your purchases and earn while spending, here are the top 5 credit cards for cashback and rewards in the USA this year.
1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Best For: Flat-rate cashback and flexible redemption.
- Cashback Rate: 1.5% on all purchases
- Bonus Offer: Earn $200 after spending $500 in the first 3 months
- Annual Fee: $0
Why Choose It?
Chase Freedom Unlimited remains a favorite for everyday spenders who want consistent returns. With no annual fee and flexible points redemption through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, it's a top-tier option in 2025.
2. American Express Blue Cash Preferred®
Best For: Grocery, streaming, and gas station rewards.
- Cashback Rate: 6% on U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 annually), 6% on streaming, 3% on transit and gas
- Bonus Offer: $250 statement credit after $3,000 in purchases in the first 6 months
- Annual Fee: $95 (waived first year)
Why Choose It?
This card is ideal for families and individuals who spend heavily on groceries and entertainment. The high cashback on streaming and gas is unmatched in its category.
3. Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
Best For: Automatic rewards on top spending category.
- Cashback Rate: 5% on your highest eligible spend category (up to $500/month), 1% thereafter
- Bonus Offer: $200 after $1,500 spend in 6 months
- Annual Fee: $0
Why Choose It?
No need to manually select categories. This card automatically adapts to your lifestyle and gives the highest cashback on where you spend the most—ideal for dynamic budgets.
4. Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards
Best For: Dining, entertainment, and travel.
- Cashback Rate: 3% on dining, entertainment, streaming, and grocery stores; 1% elsewhere
- Bonus Offer: $200 after spending $500 in 3 months
- Annual Fee: $0
Why Choose It?
The SavorOne card is a go-to for those who enjoy eating out, concerts, and traveling. In 2025, these categories are still growing in value for consumers, making this card highly rewarding.
5. Discover it® Cash Back
Best For: Rotating category rewards with match bonus.
- Cashback Rate: 5% in rotating categories (up to $1,500/quarter), 1% on other purchases
- Bonus Offer: Unlimited cashback match at the end of your first year
- Annual Fee: $0
Why Choose It?
Discover’s unique cashback match feature effectively doubles your rewards in the first year. If you’re willing to track the rotating categories, it’s one of the most profitable options.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, selecting the best credit card in the USA depends on your lifestyle and spending habits. Whether you prioritize groceries, dining out, travel, or everyday shopping, there is a card designed to reward you generously. Evaluate your monthly expenses, check for annual fees, and leverage bonus offers to maximize your returns.
Always remember to use credit responsibly. While these cards can earn you hundreds of dollars in rewards annually, carrying a balance or overspending can eliminate those gains through interest charges.
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