10 Best Index Funds for Beginners in 2026

How We Selected These Funds

These 10 funds were selected based on four criteria: expense ratio (lower is always better), assets under management (a sign of investor confidence), long-term track record, and simplicity for new investors. All are available at major U.S. brokerages with no or low minimums.

1. Fidelity ZERO Total Market Index Fund (FZROX)

Expense ratio: 0.00% | Available at: Fidelity only

The undisputed cost winner. FZROX charges absolutely nothing and gives you instant exposure to the entire U.S. stock market. The only catch: it's exclusive to Fidelity. Perfect for investors who plan to stay at Fidelity long-term.

2. Fidelity 500 Index Fund (FXAIX)

Expense ratio: 0.015% | Available at: Fidelity

Tracks the S&P 500 at a near-zero cost. One of the most popular index funds in the world. Ideal for investors who want the simplicity of the S&P 500 benchmark at minimal cost.

3. Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO)

Expense ratio: 0.03% | Available at: Most brokerages

The gold standard for S&P 500 investing. Over $500 billion in assets, exceptional liquidity, and available everywhere. A cornerstone holding for millions of American investors.

4. Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI)

Expense ratio: 0.03% | Available at: Most brokerages

Broader than VOO, VTI holds ~3,600 U.S. stocks including small and mid-cap companies. Slight additional diversification at the same cost as VOO.

5. Schwab U.S. Broad Market ETF (SCHB)

Expense ratio: 0.03% | Available at: Most brokerages

Schwab's version of a Total Market fund, comparable to VTI at identical cost. Excellent option for Schwab customers.

6. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (IVV)

Expense ratio: 0.03% | Available at: Most brokerages

BlackRock's S&P 500 ETF with over $500 billion in assets. Nearly identical to VOO — use whichever your brokerage offers commission-free.

7. Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS)

Expense ratio: 0.07% | Available at: Most brokerages

The best single fund for international diversification. Holds ~8,600 stocks from developed and emerging markets outside the U.S. Pair with VTI or VOO for a complete global portfolio.

8. Fidelity ZERO International Index Fund (FZILX)

Expense ratio: 0.00% | Available at: Fidelity only

Zero-cost international exposure at Fidelity. Pair with FZROX for a complete two-fund portfolio at literally zero cost.

9. Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF (BND)

Expense ratio: 0.03% | Available at: Most brokerages

The best bond index fund for most investors. Broad exposure to U.S. investment-grade bonds. Add to your portfolio as you age to reduce volatility.

10. Vanguard Target Retirement 2055 Fund (VFFVX)

Expense ratio: 0.08% | Available at: Vanguard

If you want a true set-and-forget option, a target-date fund automatically manages your stock/bond allocation as you approach retirement. The 2055 fund suits someone retiring around 2055. Slightly higher cost but requires zero ongoing management.