5 Cheapest Credit Card Options in Pennsylvania

This article is a paid partnership with Members 1st. The content was provided by the advertiser and is published for informational purposes only. Rates, rewards, and terms can change at any time. Readers should compare current offers and review full card terms before applying.

Sorting through credit card offers can feel overwhelming. If you are trying to keep borrowing costs low, the card you choose can make a difference over time. It all comes down to where you can find the cheapest credit card options in Pennsylvania.

With affordability in mind, it helps to look at credit cards that prioritize low interest rates, minimal fees, and easy to understand terms. The following cards are good for keeping overall costs down.

1. Members 1st Visa Signature Rewards Card 

Members 1st is a credit union based in Pennsylvania, and it is known for having straightforward financial products that focus on long-term value. Its credit cards keep costs predictable, making them appealing if you want to earn rewards without dealing with high fees or confusing terms. 

The Visa Signature Rewards card offers simple, consistent rewards for everyday spending. You can also earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase or 1.5 points per dollar spent, redeeming rewards however you choose. There are no rotating categories or spending caps to manage, and the card comes with no annual fee, so your rewards add up without offsetting costs.

The Visa Signature Rewards card also stays manageable month to month. Members 1st generally offers low minimum monthly payment options, often around 2% of the balance, which can help you better control cash flow when carrying a balance. When banking with Members 1st, you also get access to local branches and online banking tools.

2. PSECU Founder’s Rewards Card 

PSECU is a credit union that has many credit card options with low fees and member-friendly terms. Its cards keep overall borrowing costs down, making them a solid fit if you want affordability without surprise charges or a complicated rewards structure.

The Founder’s Rewards Card offers a 15.90% annual percentage rate (APR) on purchases and balance transfers. On top of purchases, you may receive 2% or 1.5% cash back each time. If approved, you would automatically receive a credit line of at least $5,000 or more, depending on your creditworthiness.

Beyond reward and rate benefits, PSECU gives customers access to a broad ATM network of over 85,000 locations, so you can find surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. The Founder’s Rewards Card also includes features like low monthly minimum payments, free digital banking tools and account alerts that help you stay on top of payments. 

3. PNC Bank Cash Rewards Visa Credit Card 

PNC Bank has several credit cards for everyday use with minimal fees. Its cards are widely available across Pennsylvania and balance affordability with practical rewards. It can be an excellent choice if you are looking for predictable savings.

The PNC Cash Rewards Visa Credit Card comes with a 0% introductory period for the first 15 months after transferring a balance within the first three months. There is also no annual fee, which keeps long-term costs down. On the rewards side, the card earns 4% cash back on gas, 3% on dining, 2% on groceries and 1% on all other purchases. The higher reward categories apply to the first $8,000 in combined purchases per year, which covers many everyday spending needs. 

In terms of usability, you can qualify for competitive credit limits depending on your credit profile and get access to PNC’s digital banking tools for tracking spending and payments. Cash back can also be redeemed as a statement credit, deposited into a PNC checking or savings account, or used toward qualifying purchases. 

4. Citizens Bank Spring World Mastercard  

Citizens Bank has an entire credit card lineup with several options that have low fees, rewarding features and introductory offers that help you save. Because the bank has branches in Pennsylvania, these cards are accessible to residents looking for affordable credit with clear benefits.

The Citizens Spring World Mastercard offers a 0% introductory APR on balance transfers for the first 18 billing cycles. Like many cards, it has no annual fee and provides everyday savings benefits such as statement credits on transit purchases and partner perks. 

Its 18-month 0% APR period is designed specifically for cardholders looking to consolidate higher-interest credit card balances and pay them down without accruing new interest. While the transit credits and partner perks offer some added value, the primary benefit is the significant potential for interest savings, making it an ideal choice for anyone focused on debt reduction over earning rewards.

5. Discover it® Cash Back Card

Discover is a popular national card issuer that is widely used in Pennsylvania. Its cards have transparency, no hidden fees and competitive introductory offers, which help keep overall borrowing costs down.

The Discover it® Cash Back card is one of its most cost-effective options. It offers a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months, after which a variable APR applies. There is no annual fee, and cardholders earn 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories like gas, groceries, restaurants and Amazon.com, plus 1% cash back on all other purchases. 

Discover also keeps fees minimal across the board. There are no foreign transaction fees, no late fee on your first missed payment and no over-limit fees. On top of a lengthy 0% APR period and strong cash-back potential, the Discover it® Cash Back card remains a low-cost, high-value option if you want flexibility and savings in one place.

Ranking Methodology 

Each card was reviewed with a focus on affordability, transparency and long-term value. The goal was to highlight options that reduce borrowing costs while still offering useful features for everyday spending. Only cards that are accessible to Pennsylvania residents were considered.

The following criteria were used to evaluate and rank each credit card:

• Annual fees, with preference given to cards that charge no annual fee
• Standard APRs, particularly for those who may carry a balance
• Introductory APR offers, including 0% APR periods on purchases or balance transfers
• Rewards programs, such as cash back or points
• Sign-up bonuses or promotional incentives
• Local availability and benefits for PA residents

Feature Comparison of the Cheapest Credit Cards in PA

This table below breaks down the key features of each card side-by-side, making it easier to evaluate the most important costs and benefits at a glance.

How to Choose the Best Card for You

Choosing the right credit card depends on how you will use it day to day and what matters most financially. While low fees are important, the best option often comes down to aligning the card’s features with spending habits, credit profile, and short-term or long-term goals.

Assess Your Spending Habits

Start by looking at where most spending happens. Cards that offer flat-rate cash back can work well for general purchases, while category-based rewards may provide more value for frequent expenditure on gas, groceries or dining. If rewards are not a priority, a low-interest card may be the more cost-effective choice. 

Think About Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a major role in determining approval and interest rates. Cards with introductory 0% APR offers, or the lowest ongoing rates, are typically reserved for applicants with good to excellent credit. For those building or rebuilding credit, focusing on cards with no annual fee and manageable limits can reduce costs while improving credit over time.

Factor in Your Financial Goals

Financial goals should guide the final decision. If you are looking to pay down existing balances, you may benefit from cards offering long 0% APR periods on balance transfers. On the other hand, if you pay balances in full each month, you may get more value from rewards or cash back. Clarifying whether the goal is saving on interest, earning rewards or simplifying payments makes it easier to narrow down the most affordable option.

Finding Affordable Credit Card Options in Pennsylvania

Finding the cheapest credit card options in Pennsylvania comes down to balancing low fees, competitive rates and features that match how you will use the card. Whether the priority is earning cash back or keeping monthly payments low, there are many options for Pennsylvania residents. Compare terms carefully to choose a card that supports your financial goals.