Is it better to build savings or pay off my mortgage as a priority?

For most people, the mortgage falls near the bottom of the priority list, not the top. Because mortgage rates are relatively low and the interest may be tax-deductible if you itemize, extra dollars usually work harder capturing your 401(k) match, clearing high-interest debt, funding an emergency fund, and maxing tax-advantaged accounts first. Once those are handled and you're on track for retirement, paying the mortgage early becomes a reasonable, low-risk choice that also delivers real peace of mind. Never funnel money into extra mortgage payments while carrying credit card debt or skipping the match. If you're retiring soon, eliminating the payment can reduce how much you must withdraw. It's as much an emotional decision as a mathematical one, so weigh both.