SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Credit scores are the three-digit numbers used to determine credit risk. The higher the score, the better someone looks to lenders. High scores open the door to low-interest rates for things like cars, credit cards and home loans.

Experian, one of the three largest credit bureaus in the United States, recently ranked the top 10 U.S. cities by average credit score. Minneapolis, Boston and Washington, D.C., ranked high, while Los Angeles, Houston and Dallas came in with lower scores.

Donald Rehorn, of Sacramento County Consumer Credit Counseling, said lenders like scores above 660.

But there is some confusion about what affects scores.

"Most people are really concerned about the inquiries. They think that has a big detriment. And of the things that affects it, that is the least," Rehorn said.

Late payments and too much debt hurt scores the most. Rehorn said the best way to boost the score is by paying bills on time with checks that won't bounce.

Rehorn also said it is important to look at your credit report every year and check it for errors.

Average Credit Ratings By State

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Equifax
Experian
Transunion