WASHINGTON – The average U.S. rate on 30-year fixed mortgages rose last week to its highest level in four months but remains low by historical standards.

Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday the rate on 30-year loans increased to 3.53 percent. That’s up from 3.42 percent the previous week and the first time the rate has exceeded 3.50 percent since September.

The average rate for 15-year fixed mortgages advanced to 2.81 percent from 2.71 percent a week earlier.

Mortgage rates tend to track the yield on the 10-year Treasury note. It rose to 2 percent Thursday, up from 1.85 percent two weeks ago.

Strong fourth-quarter earnings and positive reports on housing have pushed stocks higher. That lowered demand for Treasurys, considered safe investments. As demand for Treasurys declines, the yield increases.

Even with the increases, mortgage rates remained near historic lows.

Home prices are increasing steadily, pushed higher by rising sales and a tighter supply of available homes. When home prices rise, Americans feel wealthier and are more likely to spend.

Housing could add as much as 1 percentage point to economic growth this year.

The increase in sales and the thinner inventory of available homes have also spurred more construction.

Still, the housing market has a long way to a full recovery. And many people are unable to take advantage of the low rates, either because they can’t qualify for stricter lending rules or they lack the money to meet larger down payment requirements.

To calculate average mortgage rates, Freddie Mac surveys lenders across the country on Monday through Wednesday of each week. The average doesn’t include extra fees, known as points, which most borrowers must pay to get the lowest rates. One point equals 1 percent of the loan amount.