Alabama has a rich banking history, with banks that cater to every need, from small-town institutions with personal service to national banks with expansive branch networks.
Some prioritize low fees and strong customer support, while others focus on competitive savings rates and digital banking features. Choosing the right one depends on how you manage your money and what matters most to you.

12 Best Banks in Alabama
From longtime local favorites to online banks with high-yield accounts, the Heart of Dixie has plenty of options. This list of the best banks in Alabama highlights what sets each one apart.
1. SoFi
SoFi stands out as a go-to solution for Alabama residents seeking online banking services with a multitude of features.
2. Navy Federal Credit Union
Since there are five military bases and many current and former military members in Alabama, we had to add Navy Federal Credit Union to our list.
3. Upgrade
Upgrade is a top pick for online banking in Alabama, offering a checking account with no monthly fees, no overdraft fees, and no minimum deposit.
4. First Community Bank of Central Alabama
Based in Wetumpka, First Community Bank of Central Alabama offers a reliable local option for residents seeking personalized service.
5. PNC Bank
PNC Bank is a national bank that’s a particularly good choice if you’re a student at a college, university, or trade school in Alabama.
6. Regions Bank
Regions Bank operates more than 25 branches and drive-up ATMs across Alabama, with locations in cities like Birmingham, Dothan, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, and Tuscaloosa.
7. Valley National Bank
Valley National Bank has branches in 10 Alabama cities, including Birmingham, Daphne, Decatur, Dothan, Gadsden, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, Opelika, and Tuscaloosa.
8. Wells Fargo
If you’re looking for an Alabama bank with a national presence, Wells Fargo should be on your radar. It has more than 4,700 branches and over 13,000 ATMs across Alabama and the rest of the U.S.
9. Peoples Bank of Alabama
Peoples Bank of Alabama is worth exploring if you’re an individual or small business owner searching for a local community bank in Alabama.
10. Redstone Federal Credit Union
Redstone Federal Credit Union serves members across Alabama, with branch locations in cities such as Athens, Decatur, Gurley, Hazel Green, Huntsville, Madison, and New Market.
11. Liberty Bank
Liberty Bank is another local option that’s headquartered in Geraldine and has branch locations in Altoona, Albertville, Collinsville, Crossville, and Sardis City.
12. Bryant Bank
Bryant Bank is a community bank with 15 branches across the Cotton State, offering a strong mix of personal, business, and mortgage services.
How to Choose the Best Bank In Alabama
When it comes to choosing the best banks in Alabama, there’s more to consider than just interest rates and account types. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider:
- Types of accounts: The types of accounts you should look for depend on your unique goals. If you’d like a place to park your cash for emergencies, for example, a high-yield savings account is likely your best bet. If you have a savings goal you’d like to reach within the next few years, you might want to look for CDs.
- Fees: In a perfect world, banking fees wouldn’t exist. The reality, however, is that most banks charge fees. The good news is some banks, like online banks, are known for low fees due to their lower overhead costs. You may also be able to waive certain bank fees if you keep a certain amount of money in your account.
- Physical branches vs. online banking: If you prefer in-person banking, it’s a good idea to prioritize banks with brick-and-mortar locations. On the other hand, if you like to perform your banking online, focus on banks with robust online and mobile banking services. Ideally, you’d find a bank that gives you the option to bank online or in-person.
- Unique features: Some banks go above and beyond for customers and provide various benefits you might not expect. These include free financial advice, budgeting tools, and credit score monitoring.
- Reputation: Before you take the plunge and open an account at a new Alabama bank, make sure it’s reputable. To do so, check out customer reviews and ratings on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
- Customer Service: Chances are you’ll have a question or concern about your bank account(s) at some point in time. For this reason, opt for a bank that offers exceptional customer service via chat, phone, email, and in-person guidance.
- FDIC Insurance: Be sure to opt for an Alabama bank that is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or FDIC. This will protect you and your hard-earned money in the event it fails.
Final Thoughts
Alabama offers banking options for every preference, from large national banks to community-focused institutions. Some stand out for low fees and strong customer service, while others provide competitive interest rates and digital banking features. Finding the right fit depends on what matters most to you.
Consider what you need from a bank, whether it’s a high-yield savings account, access to physical branches, or a checking account with no monthly fees. The best bank is the one that meets your financial goals while keeping banking simple and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bank in Alabama?
The best bank in Alabama depends entirely on your individual needs and financial goals. If you’re looking for a national bank with a vast network of branches and ATMs, banks like Wells Fargo or Regions Bank might be a good fit. For those interested in online banking and high-yield savings accounts, options like SoFi and Upgrade are strong contenders.
Additionally, if you prefer personalized service from a local community bank, First Community Bank of Central Alabama or Bryant Bank could be ideal choices. Consider what’s most important to you, such as fees, accessibility, interest rates, and customer service, when making your decision.
How many banks are there in Alabama?
Currently, there are more than 100 banks in Alabama. These are local banks, regional banks, and national banks. Each bank comes with its own benefits and drawbacks that are important to consider.
What’s the most popular bank in Alabama?
Regions Banks has more than 220 branches in Alabama. Therefore, it has the most widespread presence in the Cotton state.
How many bank accounts should I open in Alabama?
The right amount of bank accounts depends on your particular financial goals. Be mindful of how many you open and make sure you can manage all of them. Otherwise, you might steer yourself into financial trouble.
What are some good online banking options in Alabama?
If you’re a fan of online banking, we recommend SoFi or Upgrade. Both options come with a wide range of products and low fees.