12 Best Banks in Alabama for 2025

10 min read

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.

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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.

With up to 3.80% APY on savings accounts and a 0.50% APY on checking accounts, your savings will grow quickly. Customers can earn bonuses ranging from $50 to $300 depending on their direct deposit amounts.

There are no monthly fees with SoFi, and it offers no-fee overdraft coverage up to $50 with qualifying direct deposits.

Additionally, you can enjoy free access to over 55,000 ATMs worldwide thanks to the Allpoint® Network. Plus, SoFi safeguards your deposits with robust FDIC insurance up to $2M, offering added peace of mind.

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.

NFCU offers numerous advantages for military members and their families. They offer free checking and savings accounts with higher than average interest rates that vary based on account type and balance.

Plus you’ll get access to $30,000 free ATMs across Alabama and the U.S. as well as international branches in places like Cuba, Korea, Italy, and Japan.

Other benefits of Navy Federal Credit Union include loan options, like mortgage banking services and vehicle loans, as well as a convenient mobile app for banking on the go. Navy Federal is one of the top credit unions in the state.

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.

You can also earn up to 2% cash back on eligible debit card purchases, making it a rewarding choice for everyday spending.

The Rewards Checking Plus account includes early direct deposit, giving you faster access to your paycheck—up to two days ahead of schedule.

For those who use cash regularly, Upgrade gives you access to more than 55,000 fee-free ATMs through the Allpoint® network, including locations like Walgreens and CVS.

Through its partnership with Cross River Bank, all deposits are FDIC insured up to $250,000.

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.

Branches are located throughout the region, including in Eclectic, Holtville, Millbrook, Prattville, Tallassee, and Wetumpka.

The bank provides both free and interest-bearing checking accounts, along with multiple savings options. Most accounts require a $100 opening deposit.

Monthly fees are easy to avoid by maintaining a $2,500 balance. First Community Bank also offers small business accounts, mortgage loans, and wealth management services.

Customers benefit from free cashier’s checks and the comfort of banking with a community-focused institution that understands local financial needs.

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.

In addition to traditional products like checking accounts and savings accounts with low monthly maintenance fees, it offers various education loans that can make your education more affordable.

There’s also a Virtual Student Wallet, which you may use to manage all your accounts in one place. In addition, PNC Bank will give you a grace period before you have to pay overdraft fees.

Note that there is one PNC branch in Selma, Alabama, but online and mobile banking is available. You may also access more than 60,000 fee-free ATMs throughout the U.S.

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.

Customers benefit from fee-free access to Regions ATMs statewide.

The bank’s checking and savings accounts come with optional rewards programs, and it offers CDs with terms ranging from 7 to 72 months and a $500 minimum deposit.

For those interested in investing, Regions provides access to InvestPath—a digital investing platform backed by its in-house advisory team.

Additional tools like My GreenInsights help you budget, track spending, and set financial goals. Regions also offers a range of credit cards with cash back, travel rewards, and merchandise options.

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.

It offers a solid mix of personal banking products without many of the typical fees.

Its basic checking and savings accounts come with no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements. If you set up direct deposit, you may qualify for cash rewards.

The bank also offers a money market account with a competitive rate, though it requires a $2,000 minimum deposit.

For savers looking to earn more, Valley National Bank’s CDs are worth considering. Longer terms generally offer better yields, making them a strong option for customers focused on long-term growth.

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.

The bank offers just about every financial service you can think of, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, CDs, credit cards, personal loans, and wealth management services. Business checking accounts and business loans are available as well.

While some accounts do come with monthly maintenance fees, they’re easy to waive. All you have to do is meet certain minimum balance requirements.

Wells Fargo also offers other perks, like bonuses for opening certain accounts, credit score monitoring, and mobile banking apps with easy transfers, mobile deposit, account alerts, and more.

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.

Headquartered in Cullman, its range of products include a basic savings account, checking accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, loans, lines of credit, and more.

The myEasyAdvisor program is an automated program that offers personalized financial advice to help you improve your finances.

You can find local branches and ATMs in four different regions in Alabama, including the Central region, Coosa Valley region, Metro Central region, and the Tennessee Valley region.

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.

Membership is open to those affiliated with government agencies, the military, or one of over 1,500 participating organizations and employers.

Redstone offers a full suite of financial products, including checking, savings, money market accounts, CDs, personal loans, mortgages, and credit cards.

The Brighter Day savings account stands out, offering 3.03% APY on balances up to $2,500 and 0.45% APY on amounts above that.

Members can also benefit from the Redstone Visa Signature credit card, which delivers up to 5% cash back on dining and gas, 3% on groceries, discount stores, and utilities, and 1.5% on everything else.

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.

Its personal banking services include checking accounts, savings accounts, debit cards, traditional credit cards, secured credit cards, CDs, IRAs, and other deposit accounts.

The bank also offers business banking and bank properties for sale. One of its most noteworthy perks is Overdraft Privilege, which allows you to overdraft your account up to a certain amount so you can cover a transaction.

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.

Cities with branch locations include Birmingham, Foley, Huntsville, Mobile, and Tuscaloosa.

The bank blends hometown service with modern convenience by offering online and mobile banking, allowing you to manage your accounts anytime.

One of its most accessible products is the Basic Savings Account, which requires just $100 to open and includes six free withdrawals per month.

Bryant Bank also offers a range of checking accounts, CDs, money market options, and loans—including personal lending and credit cards—making it a reliable option for everyday banking in Alabama.

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.

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.

Discover the best banks in neighboring states:

Anna Baluch
Meet the author

Anna is a freelance personal finance writer from Cleveland, OH. She enjoys helping people make smart financial decisions.