Best Banks in America: Top Picks for Checking, Savings, and More

Navigating the landscape of American banks can be overwhelming, especially when seeking the perfect fit for your financial needs. With rising inflation impacting your financial setup, choosing the right bank has never been more critical. Whether you’re prioritizing high-yield savings, robust checking features, superior customer service, or convenient digital access, the ideal bank can significantly enhance your financial well-being.

This guide delves into the Best Banks In America, meticulously evaluated to help you make informed decisions. Our expert team at bankprofits.net has rigorously reviewed numerous financial institutions to bring you our top recommendations. We understand that banking needs vary, so we’ve highlighted banks excelling in different areas, ensuring there’s a top option for everyone.

Quick Overview of the Best Banks in America:

Capital One: Best Overall for Checking Accounts from a National Bank
Chase: Best for Extensive Branch Network and In-Person Banking
Axos Bank: Best for Diverse Online Account Options and High Yields
Discover® Bank: Best for Comprehensive Banking Services in One Place
Ally Bank: Best for High-Yield Savings and Investment Tools
Synchrony Bank: Best for High-Yield Savings from a Well-Known Brand
TD Bank: Best for Exceptional Customer Service and Branch Accessibility
TotalBank: Best for Leading CD Interest Rates
Barclays: Best for Competitive High-Yield Savings Account Rates

caption of Capital One 360 Checking account sign up page

Deep Dive into America’s Best Banks

The top banks in America distinguish themselves through a combination of comprehensive financial products, exceptional customer service, and user-friendly platforms. Our selection includes both online and traditional brick-and-mortar banks, catering to diverse preferences and banking styles.

Below, we explore each of our top picks in detail, highlighting their standout features and services to help you determine which bank aligns best with your individual financial goals.

Capital One Bank: Best for National Checking Accounts and Overall Satisfaction

Capital One stands out, particularly with its 360 Checking account, consistently ranked among the best checking accounts available nationwide. A key advantage is the absence of monthly service fees, overdraft fees, and foreign transaction fees, coupled with no minimum deposit requirements. Capital One’s commitment to customer satisfaction is further underscored by its No. 1 ranking in J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. National Banking Satisfaction Study, reflecting high levels of customer contentment.

With over 70,000 fee-free ATMs across the country, accessing your funds is convenient. While Capital One doesn’t reimburse out-of-network ATM fees, its extensive network minimizes the need. Furthermore, Capital One’s savings and CD rates are notably competitive, often exceeding the national average, making it an attractive option for consolidating multiple accounts.

Although primarily an online bank, Capital One maintains a physical presence with over 280 branches in seven states and around 50 Capital One Cafés. These Cafés offer a unique blend of banking services and relaxed environments, allowing customers to manage finances, enjoy refreshments, and access financial coaching. Capital One’s hybrid model provides the convenience of online banking with the option for in-person assistance.

[Alt text: Sign-up page for Capital One 360 Checking account, highlighting its online accessibility and features.]

Key Advantages of Capital One:

No monthly service fees or minimum balance requirements on checking accounts.
Extensive ATM network with over 70,000 fee-free ATMs.
High customer satisfaction ratings, consistently recognized by J.D. Power.
Competitive interest rates on savings and CD accounts.
Hybrid online and physical presence with branches and Capital One Cafés.

Read our comprehensive Capital One Bank Review

Chase Bank: Best for Branch Access and Comprehensive Banking Services

Chase Bank distinguishes itself with the largest branch network among national banks, surpassing Bank of America and Wells Fargo in physical locations. This extensive network provides unparalleled access to in-person banking services across numerous states. Chase offers a wide array of banking products, catering to diverse financial needs, and provides relationship benefits, such as enhanced interest rates, for customers with multiple accounts. Recognized in our guides for the best kids savings accounts and top national banks, Chase’s broad appeal is evident.

While Chase provides extensive services, it’s important to note the potential for monthly service fees if account balance requirements aren’t met and fees for out-of-network ATM usage. However, the convenience of over 4,700 branches and approximately 16,000 ATMs across the continental U.S. offers significant accessibility.

Chase’s robust service offerings extend beyond basic banking, including wealth management, mortgages, and credit cards, making it a comprehensive financial institution for various life stages. For those who value face-to-face banking and a wide spectrum of financial services, Chase remains a leading choice.

[Alt text: Exterior view of a Chase Bank branch, emphasizing its physical presence and accessibility for in-person banking.]

Key Advantages of Chase Bank:

Largest branch network in the U.S., ensuring convenient in-person banking.
Wide range of banking products and services, catering to diverse needs.
Relationship benefits for customers with multiple accounts.
Extensive ATM network with approximately 16,000 locations.
Strong reputation and broad financial service offerings.

Explore our detailed Chase Bank Review

Axos Bank: Best for Online Account Variety and High-Yield Opportunities

Axos Bank excels as a purely online institution, offering an impressive selection of five distinct checking accounts, each designed to meet specific customer needs. These include:

Essential Checking: Provides early access to paychecks, up to two days in advance.
Rewards Checking: Offers a high Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for maximized earnings.
CashBack Checking: Earns users up to 1% cash back on debit card purchases.
Golden Checking: Tailored for customers aged 55 and over with specific benefits.
First Checking: Designed for teenagers aged 13-17, fostering early financial literacy.

Axos also provides a high-yield savings account, although it requires a minimum opening deposit of $250, which is higher than some competitors. The Rewards Checking account is particularly noteworthy for its potential to earn up to 3.30% APY, though achieving this rate requires meeting several criteria, including direct deposits, debit card transactions, and investment account balances.

As an online-only bank, Axos provides access to a vast network of approximately 91,000 ATMs worldwide and is known for generous reimbursements of out-of-network ATM fees, enhancing accessibility for its customers. Axos Bank is ideal for those comfortable with online banking and seeking varied account options and competitive yields.

[Alt text: Axos Bank website interface, showcasing the variety of online checking account options available.]

Key Advantages of Axos Bank:

Diverse range of checking accounts catering to specific needs.
High-yield potential with Rewards Checking and savings accounts.
Extensive ATM access with approximately 91,000 ATMs globally.
Generous out-of-network ATM fee reimbursements.
Competitive rates and low fees typical of online banks.

Delve into our Axos Bank Review

Discover® Bank: Best for One-Stop Comprehensive Banking Solutions

caption of Discover Bank website interface, highlighting its range of services

Discover Bank stands out as an excellent choice for individuals seeking a single financial institution for all their banking, investing, and borrowing needs. Beyond banking, Discover is well-regarded for its credit card offerings and investment products, creating a seamless financial ecosystem. A unique feature of Discover’s checking account is the opportunity to earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in monthly debit card purchases, adding value to everyday transactions.

Discover eliminates initial deposit requirements for checking, savings, CD, and money market accounts, making it highly accessible. While Discover operates primarily online, it maintains access to over 60,000 ATMs through the Allpoint and MoneyPass networks, ensuring convenient cash access. Although Discover has only one physical branch in Delaware, its comprehensive online and ATM services provide nationwide accessibility.

For those prioritizing convenience and a broad spectrum of financial services within one institution, Discover Bank is a strong contender.

[Alt text: Discover Bank’s website homepage, emphasizing its comprehensive suite of banking and financial services.]

Key Advantages of Discover Bank:

Comprehensive suite of banking, investing, and credit products.
Cash back rewards on debit card purchases.
No minimum initial deposits required for most accounts.
Extensive ATM network with over 60,000 ATMs.
24/7 customer service availability.

Read our full Discover Bank Review

Ally Bank: Best for High-Yield Savings and Advanced Saving Tools

Ally Bank is consistently recognized as a top online bank, celebrated for its robust banking and investment products. It offers a diverse range of savings options, including high-yield savings accounts, money market accounts, traditional CDs, no-penalty CDs, and bump-up CDs, providing flexibility and choice for savers. Notably, Ally eliminates minimum opening deposits across all accounts, making it accessible to savers at any level.

The Ally Savings Account is particularly innovative with its “buckets” feature, designed to help users organize savings for specific financial goals. This allows for visual and organizational segregation of funds for objectives like emergency funds or travel, enhancing savings discipline. Furthermore, Ally’s investment platform is recognized as one of the best investment apps for beginners, offering a user-friendly robo-advisor service to facilitate easy entry into investing.

For customers prioritizing high-yield savings, versatile savings tools, and accessible investment options within a digital banking environment, Ally Bank is a leading choice.

[Alt text: Ally Bank mobile app interface, showcasing its savings account “buckets” feature for goal-oriented saving.]

Key Advantages of Ally Bank:

Consistently high-yield savings account rates.
Innovative savings “buckets” feature for goal organization.
No minimum opening deposits on any accounts.
Wide variety of CD options for flexible savings terms.
Top-rated investment platform and robo-advisor services.

Explore our in-depth Ally Bank Review

Synchrony Bank: Best for High-Yield Savings with ATM Access

Synchrony Bank specializes in high-yield savings accounts, offering a compelling 4.00% APY, significantly above national averages. It distinguishes itself by providing an ATM card with its savings account, an unusual feature that enhances liquidity and access to savings funds. There are no monthly fees or minimum deposit requirements, making it a straightforward and attractive savings option.

While Synchrony does not offer checking accounts, its savings-focused approach provides high returns and convenient access to funds through ATM networks like Plus, STAR, and NYCE, along with up to $5 in monthly out-of-network ATM fee reimbursements. Synchrony is an online-only bank, lacking physical branches, but its competitive rates and ATM accessibility make it a prime choice for high-yield savings.

For individuals primarily focused on maximizing savings yields and desiring ATM access to savings funds, Synchrony Bank presents a strong, specialized option.

[Alt text: Synchrony Bank ATM card, highlighting the unique feature of ATM access for a high-yield savings account.]

Key Advantages of Synchrony Bank:

Very competitive high-yield savings account rates.
ATM card access to savings accounts, enhancing liquidity.
No monthly fees or minimum deposit requirements.
Reimbursement of out-of-network ATM fees, up to $5 monthly.
Focus on high-yield savings products.

Read our detailed Synchrony Bank Review

TD Bank: Best for Customer Service and Branch Accessibility

TD Bank is recognized for its exceptional customer service, ranking third in J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. National Banking Satisfaction Study. A key differentiator is its extended branch hours, with many locations open seven days a week, providing unparalleled convenience for in-person banking, especially for those with weekday constraints.

TD Bank has a substantial branch network with over 1,100 locations across 16 states and approximately 2,600 ATMs. While ATM fees are comparable to other banks, it’s important to note that only the TD Bank Beyond Checking Account waives non-TD Bank ATM fees, and this requires maintaining a $2,500 balance for fee reimbursement.

TD Bank is ideal for customers who value excellent customer service, frequent branch access, and extended banking hours, combining convenience with personal banking support.

[Alt text: Interior of a TD Bank branch, showcasing its customer service oriented environment and extended operating hours.]

Key Advantages of TD Bank:

High customer satisfaction ratings, consistently recognized by J.D. Power.
Extensive branch network with over 1,100 locations.
Branches open seven days a week, offering extended hours.
Substantial ATM network with approximately 2,600 ATMs.
Strong focus on customer service and in-person banking.

Explore our comprehensive TD Bank Review

TotalBank: Best for Leading CD Rates

TotalBank, an online-only financial institution, distinguishes itself by offering some of the highest Certificate of Deposit (CD) rates available nationwide. It provides exceptional APYs across various CD terms, including 3-month, 6-month, 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, and 5-year CDs, with rates ranging from 4.11% to 4.51% APY.

In addition to CDs, TotalBank offers a competitive Online Money Market account with APYs up to 4.51% and no monthly service fees. However, TotalBank’s product range is limited to CDs and money market accounts. It does not offer checking or savings accounts, making it less suitable as a primary, full-service bank.

TotalBank is best suited for individuals specifically seeking to maximize returns on CDs and money market accounts and are comfortable managing finances with a specialized, online-only institution.

[Alt text: TotalBank website interface, highlighting its prominently displayed high CD interest rates and term options.]

Key Advantages of TotalBank:

Market-leading interest rates on CDs across various terms.
Competitive rates on its Online Money Market account.
No monthly service fees for the Money Market account.
Focus on maximizing returns for savers.
Online-only convenience for CD and money market management.

Barclays: Best for High-Yield Savings Rates and CD Options

Barclays Bank is a top contender for high-yield savings, offering rates from 4.15% to 4.40% APY with its Tiered Savings account, significantly outperforming national averages. Interest earnings are tiered based on account balances, rewarding higher balances with better rates. Barclays also frequently offers bonuses for new savings account openings, such as a $200 bonus with qualifying activities.

Besides savings, Barclays provides competitive CD rates with no minimum opening deposit requirement, enhancing accessibility. However, Barclays does not offer checking accounts, so it may not serve as a comprehensive banking solution for all customers.

Barclays is ideal for those prioritizing high-yield savings and CD investments, seeking competitive rates and online banking convenience from a reputable international bank.

[Alt text: Barclays Bank website, showcasing its high-yield savings account rates and promotional bonus offer for new customers.]

Key Advantages of Barclays Bank:

Highly competitive high-yield savings account rates.
Bonus offers for new savings account customers.
Competitive CD rates with no minimum deposit.
Reputable international banking brand.
Strong focus on high-yield savings and CD products.

Explore our detailed Barclays Bank Review

Choosing the Right Bank: Key Considerations

Selecting the right bank involves understanding your personal financial needs and banking preferences. Consider these factors to guide your decision:

Account Needs: Determine whether you primarily need a checking account, savings account, CDs, or a combination.
Banking Style: Decide if you prefer in-person banking with branch access or the convenience of online and mobile banking.
Fee Sensitivity: Evaluate the importance of avoiding monthly fees, ATM fees, and overdraft fees.
Interest Rate Goals: Assess whether maximizing interest earnings on savings is a priority.
Customer Service Preferences: Consider the level of customer support you require, including branch service and 24/7 online support.
Ethical Banking: If aligned with your values, explore women-led, minority-owned, or community-focused banks.

For individuals new to banking or lacking U.S. identification, options are available. Top banks for immigrants and non-U.S. citizens often accept foreign passports or Matricula Consular cards for account opening.

To refine your search, identify your key priorities. Are you focused on savings account features, checking account functionalities, or superior customer service? Understanding your primary banking needs will streamline your selection process.

Top Banks for Savings Accounts: Maximizing Your Returns

The best banks for savings accounts are those that offer competitive interest rates, ideally through high-yield savings accounts. While the average savings account interest rate is around 0.41% APY, top-tier banks offer significantly higher rates, sometimes reaching 5% interest savings accounts. Online banks and smaller institutions often lead in high savings rates due to lower overhead costs.

When choosing a savings account, be mindful of potential fees such as monthly maintenance fees, excessive transaction fees, and inactivity fees. Many banks waive these fees if certain balance or activity criteria are met, while others eliminate them entirely.

Best Banks for Checking Accounts: Access and Convenience

The best checking accounts provide easy access to your funds and minimize fees. Key features to look for include:

Extensive ATM Network: Ensuring convenient cash withdrawals nationwide.
Branch Access (if preferred): For in-person transactions and customer service.
Mobile and Online Banking: Robust digital platforms for account management.
Low or No Fees: Minimizing monthly service fees, overdraft fees, and ATM fees.
Additional Perks: Some checking accounts offer cash bonuses, interest earnings, or cash-back debit cards.

Banks with the Best Customer Service: Prioritizing Support

Customer service quality is paramount for a positive banking experience. J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. National Banking Satisfaction Study highlights Capital One, Chase, and TD Bank as leaders in customer satisfaction. For extended support, consider banks offering 24/7 customer service. Checking a bank holiday schedule can also be useful for understanding service availability during holidays.

Best Banks for an Online-Only Experience: Digital Convenience

Online banks excel in providing seamless digital banking experiences. The top online banks offer:

Free Checking and Savings Accounts: No monthly service fees.
Minimal Fees: Often eliminating overdraft fees and other common charges.
High Interest Rates: Competitive APYs on savings accounts.
User-Friendly Mobile Apps: For comprehensive account management on-the-go.

Best Banks for In-Person Banking: Branch Services and Relationships

Brick-and-mortar banks offer the advantage of face-to-face banking and a broader range of services. Top brick-and-mortar banks typically provide:

Diverse Account Options: Various checking and savings accounts, plus loans and credit cards.
Relationship Banking: Perks for customers with multiple accounts or services.
Fee Waiver Options: Multiple ways to avoid monthly and overdraft fees.
Comprehensive Services: Including services like foreign currency exchange.

Online Banks vs. Traditional Banks: Key Differences

The primary distinction between online and traditional banks is the presence of physical branches. Traditional banks offer branch access, while online banks operate exclusively digitally. This structural difference leads to other variations:

Fees: Online banks generally have lower fees due to reduced overhead costs.
Interest Rates: Online banks often offer higher savings rates.
Service Variety: Traditional banks typically provide a wider array of services, including foreign currency exchange and more complex financial products.

Choosing Between Traditional and Online Banks: Aligning with Your Needs

The choice between a traditional and online bank depends on your banking habits and preferences. If you value in-person service and branch access, a traditional bank may be preferable. If you prioritize low fees, high savings rates, and digital convenience, an online bank might be the better fit. If opting for a traditional bank, ensure you select accounts with fee waiver options to maximize value.

Switching Banks: A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing banks is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition:

Choose a New Bank: Select a bank that better meets your financial needs and preferences.
Open a New Account: Apply online, by phone, or at a branch, providing necessary identification and information.
Transfer Funds: Move your money from your old account to your new account.
Update Direct Deposits and Autopay: Notify your employer and update billing information for automated payments.
Close Your Old Account: Once everything is transferred and updated, formally close your previous bank account.

Bank Trustworthiness and BBB Ratings: Evaluating Reliability

Assessing a bank’s trustworthiness is crucial. Resources like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) provide ratings based on customer complaints, business practices, and transparency. While a strong BBB grade is a positive indicator, consider also reviewing online customer reviews and any history of public controversies.

BBB Ratings Snapshot:

Brick-and-Mortar Banks:

Institution	BBB Grade	Notes
TD Bank	D+	Government action taken against the bank for debit card service issues.
Chase	A-	Settlement related to reporting failures concerning Jeffrey Epstein.

Online Banks:

Institution	BBB Grade	Notes
Axos Bank	A+
Capital One 360	A+
Synchrony	NR	Currently responding to previously closed complaints; past settlement for calling wrong numbers.
Discover	A+	Settlement for lending discrimination against DACA recipients.
TotalBank	A-	Unresolved customer complaint.
Barclays	A+	SEC settlement for unregistered securities distribution.

These ratings and histories provide additional context for evaluating bank reliability and ethical practices.

Best Banks FAQs: Quick Answers to Common Questions

What are the best banks for savings accounts?

Online banks and banks with no-fee, high-yield savings accounts are typically the best for savings, offering higher APYs and lower fees.

Which banks have the lowest fees for checking accounts?

Online banks generally offer the lowest fees for checking accounts. Traditional banks may waive fees based on balance or direct deposit criteria.

How can I choose the best bank?

Consider your preferred banking type (traditional, online, credit union), compare fees, interest rates, account requirements, and evaluate your overall banking needs and potential future services.

What is the No. 1 bank in America?

Chase, based on its extensive branch network and accessibility, is often considered the No. 1 bank in America for branch presence.

Which bank has the most complaints?

Citibank has historically received a higher volume of complaints and has a lower BBB rating compared to other major banks.

Why Trust Our Recommendations: Expert Insights

bankprofits.net’s best bank recommendations are grounded in thorough research and expert analysis. Our methodology involves evaluating over 200 financial institutions, focusing on factors like fees, interest rates, accessibility, and customer service. We adhere to strict editorial standards to ensure unbiased and reliable ratings.

Our expert panel includes financial professionals who emphasize key factors in bank selection:

Tania Brown, CFP®: Highlights FDIC insurance and aligning banking style with personal preferences.
Sophia Acevedo, Banking Editor: Recommends prioritizing desired features and comparing fee structures and interest rates.
Mykail James, MBA: Stresses accessibility of branches and ATMs for brick-and-mortar banks and competitive interest rates for online banks.
Roger Ma, CFP®: Focuses on ease of fund transfers and cybersecurity for online banks.

Our comprehensive methodology and expert insights ensure our “Best Banks in America” guide provides valuable, trustworthy recommendations to assist you in making the optimal banking choice.

[Alt text: Sophia Acevedo, Banking Editor at Business Insider, expert in banking and personal finance.]

[Alt text: Evelyn He, Compliance and Operations Associate at Business Insider, expert in compliance and SEO.]

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