Points Value Index – July 2026

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Not all points are created equal — a Marriott point and a Hilton point aren’t worth the same, even though both are called “hotel points.” This is our estimate of what each major currency covered on PointsBoarding is realistically worth, based on typical redemption value rather than best-case outliers. We’ll revisit and update these figures periodically as programs change.

Travel planning

Methodology note: these are estimates based on realistic, everyday redemption value — not the absolute best possible use of a point, which can vary widely. Treat these as a general planning benchmark, not a guaranteed cash value.

In This Guide

Transferable Points Currencies

Currency Estimated Value
Bilt Points~2.2¢
Chase Ultimate Rewards~2.0¢
Amex Membership Rewards~2.0¢
Capital One Miles~1.7-1.85¢

These four sit at the top of the list for good reason — their value comes from optionality, not a fixed redemption. See our Transferable Points guide and How Transfer Bonuses Work for how to actually capture that value.

Airline Miles

Program Estimated Value
Alaska/Hawaiian Atmos Rewards~1.4-1.5¢
American AAdvantage~1.4¢
United MileagePlus~1.3¢
Southwest Rapid Rewards~1.3¢
Delta SkyMiles~1.2¢

Hotel Points

Program Estimated Value
World of Hyatt~1.2-1.4¢
Marriott Bonvoy~0.7-0.8¢
IHG One Rewards~0.5-0.6¢
Hilton Honors~0.4-0.5¢

Notice Hyatt still leads despite its May 2026 devaluation — and Hilton’s ongoing redemption creep keeps it at the bottom of this list. Full detail in our individual Hotels guides.

How to Actually Use These Numbers

A Simple Formula
Take the cash price of what you’re booking, divide by the points required, and multiply by 100 to get your actual cents-per-point on that specific redemption. Compare that number to the estimates above — if you’re clearing the benchmark or beating it, it’s a reasonable use of points. If you’re falling well short, paying cash is often the better move.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often is the Points Value Index updated?

We revisit these estimates periodically as programs change — a real devaluation or major earning change can shift a currency’s value meaningfully, so treat older editions as a snapshot in time rather than a permanent figure.

Why are transferable points valued higher than airline or hotel points?

Because they retain optionality — you can choose the best redemption across many partners rather than being locked into one program’s specific pricing, which consistently produces better average outcomes.

Ready to put this into practice? Explore our full Articles →

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