13 Best Banks in Connecticut for 2025

11 min read

Connecticut is a great place to live and work. It’s in a prime location that makes it easy to get to large cities like New York and Boston. Plus, there are plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities thanks to all the mountains, lakes, and beaches as well as top-notch schools.

Whether you’re new to the Constitution State or have lived there for years, you might be searching for a bank to manage and store your hard-earned money. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place, as we’ve researched the various regional banks and national banks available.

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13 Best Banks in Connecticut

Below is our carefully curated list of the best banks in Connecticut. This list is compiled based on factors such as customer feedback, range of services, accessibility, and financial strength.

1. SoFi

SoFi is one of the top online banks for Connecticut residents, known for its Checking & Savings account. Customers can earn up to 3.80% APY on savings alongside a 0.50% APY on the checking account, all with no monthly fees.

Newcomers to SoFi can expect a welcome bonus of up to $300, based on the direct deposit amount.

One standout feature is the early direct deposit option, granting account holders access to their paychecks up to two days in advance.

SoFi also provides FDIC insurance coverage that extends up to a substantial $2 million. The bank further aids its customers with overdraft coverage of up to $50 with no fees, a facility available for those with qualifying direct deposits.

Furthermore, SoFi provides access to over 55,000 Allpoint® Network ATMs.

2. TD Bank

TD Bank has a strong presence in Connecticut, with 10 branches located in cities such as Bristol, Danbury, Manchester, New Haven, Stamford, Southington, and Waterbury.

With its convenient locations and accessible products, TD Bank offers a solid mix of in-person and digital banking options.

The TD Convenience Checking℠ account is a popular choice for everyday use. You can waive the $15 monthly fee by maintaining a $100 minimum daily balance, and account holders aged 17 to 23 automatically avoid the fee. There’s no minimum deposit to open the account.

All checking accounts come with mobile banking access, including mobile check deposit, Zelle, and online bill pay. Customers also receive contactless debit cards backed by TD Bank’s zero-liability guarantee and 24/7 fraud monitoring.

TD Bank also offers competitive savings accounts, CDs, and credit cards, along with rate discounts on personal and home equity loans—making it a dependable option for full-service banking in Connecticut.

3. Liberty Bank

Based in Middletown, Liberty Bank has served Connecticut residents for over 200 years and operates more than 50 branches across the state.

You’ll find locations in cities such as Cheshire, Glastonbury, Manchester, Middletown, and West Hartford.

Liberty Bank offers a full suite of financial products, including personal and business banking, mortgages, loans, insurance, and wealth management.

Its four checking account options all include access to a digital wallet, online bill pay, and no minimum balance requirements.

Savers can choose from three savings accounts, each with tiered interest rates. Liberty also provides a strong digital experience, letting customers manage their accounts, pay bills, and set up alerts through online and mobile banking.

Whether you prefer in-person service or mobile access, Liberty Bank delivers flexibility with a long-standing commitment to the Connecticut community.

4. Upgrade

Upgrade offers a strong digital banking option for Connecticut residents who want to avoid fees while earning more on their everyday finances.

Through its Rewards Checking Plus and Performance Savings accounts, customers can earn up to 4.02% APY on savings and enjoy 2% cash back on eligible debit card purchases, such as groceries and gas.

The Rewards Checking Plus account comes with no monthly maintenance fees, no overdraft fees, and no transfer fees.

There’s also no minimum deposit required to open the account, making it easy to get started. With early direct deposit, you can access your paycheck up to two days in advance.

Upgrade gives you access to over 55,000 fee-free ATMs through the Allpoint® network, including locations inside Walgreens and CVS stores throughout Connecticut. The mobile app lets you manage your account, pay bills, and make transfers from anywhere.

All deposits are FDIC insured up to $250,000 through Upgrade’s banking partner, Cross River Bank, offering peace of mind for online banking customers.

5. Webster Bank

Webster Bank headquartered in Stamford, has a strong presence throughout Connecticut with branches in cities such as Bridgeport, Danbury, Hartford, Meriden, Middletown, New Haven, Norwalk, Stamford, Waterbury, and West Hartford.

Its wide footprint makes it easy for residents across the state to access in-person banking, while also offering modern digital tools for convenient online management.

Webster’s checking accounts feature low minimum balance requirements and include perks like free online bill pay.

The bank’s offerings extend well beyond checking. Webster provides personal savings accounts, competitive CD options, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), home and auto loans, and a full suite of wealth management and commercial banking services.

Its combination of local accessibility and full-service banking makes it a dependable choice for individuals and businesses across Connecticut.

6. Citizens Bank

Citizens Bank, boasting over 30 branches in Connecticut, stands as one of the reliable national banks in the region.

The One Deposit checking account is notable, allowing you to avoid monthly maintenance fees with just a single deposit each month. You can kickstart this account without worrying about meeting any minimum balance requirements.

Besides the checking account, Citizens Bank offers savings and money market accounts, CDs, and IRAs to help you manage and grow your savings.

The bank safeguards your interests with the Citizens Peace of Mind program, which notifies you in case of an account overdraft and grants a grace period to avoid overdraft fees.

Plus, setting up a direct deposit with them ensures that you receive your payment two days early every statement cycle, enhancing your financial flexibility.

7. M&T Bank

M&T Bank’s branches and ATMs can be found in many Connecticut cities, such as Fairfield, Monroe, Stratford, Trumbull, and Westport.

Its personal banking options include checking accounts, savings accounts, CDs, loans, mortgages, and insurance.

If you download its mobile app, you’ll be able to send and receive money via Zelle, deposit checks on the go, and keep tabs on your spending habits.

M&T Bank also specializes in mortgage assistance programs to help you cover your mortgage costs as you deal with financial hardship.

In addition, M&T Bank caters to small businesses with business checking accounts, business credit cards, and merchant services can help you meet your business goals.

8. Union Savings Bank

Union Savings Bank is a local bank with a focus on customer relationships and customizable banking services. It has branch locations in Bethel, Brookfield, Danbury, Canton, Goshen, Litchfield, and many other cities throughout Connecticut.

Banking with Union Savings Bank entails a broad spectrum of personal banking products, ranging from checking and savings accounts to mortgages, and HELOCs.

The bank stands out with its impressive digital offerings such as digital wallets, Spending Insights, and online and mobile banking facilitated with Zelle.

A noteworthy feature is the opportunity to collaborate with a certified FutureTrack coach to devise a tailored financial plan, steering you steadily towards your financial objectives.

Opting for Union Savings Bank means choosing a partner dedicated to supporting you in meeting your financial goals in Connecticut.

9. Bankwell Bank

Bankwell Bank serves individuals and small businesses in Fairfield and New Haven counties, offering a range of personal and business banking solutions.

For personal banking, customers can open Smart Checking, Smart Savings, Smart Money Market, and Smart IRA accounts—all designed to simplify money management with modern features and digital access.

To make switching easier, Bankwell provides a Switch Kit that helps you transfer your accounts and direct deposits with minimal hassle.

Business owners can also take advantage of the bank’s treasury management services, which include online business banking, account reconciliation, wire transfers, ACH origination, mobile check deposit, and zero balance accounts. These tools support efficient cash flow and day-to-day operations for local businesses.

10. First County Bank

First County Bank is an independent bank in Fairfield. It strives to make money management easy through checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, loans, insurance, and online banking.

If you’re planning to buy a house, you’ll appreciate First County’s mortgage center, which offers mortgages with attractive rates and terms, home equity loans, and a plethora of mortgage resources.

Its wealth management services are specifically tailored to individuals and families, women, family businesses, and nonprofit organizations. In addition, the First County Foundation awards grants to support various causes.

11. Dime Bank

Dime Bank serves southeastern Connecticut and parts of Rhode Island, with branches in Connecticut cities like Colchester, East Lyme, Ledyard, Montville, Norwich, and Salem.

It offers a wide selection of banking services with both convenience and flexibility.

Customers can choose from five checking accounts that may include benefits like free ATM withdrawals, digital banking tools, a built-in cell phone protection plan, and even roadside assistance.

For saving, options include traditional savings accounts, Club accounts for holidays or special purchases, and money market accounts that offer competitive interest rates.

Dime Bank also supports personal borrowing needs with various consumer loan products, including mortgages, home equity loans, construction loans, auto loans, and personal loans—making it a strong community banking option in southeastern Connecticut.

12. Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the largest banks in the country. It has many branches with local people in more than 60 cities and towns throughout Connecticut, like Hartford, Bridgeport, New Haven, and Danbury.

With Bank of America, you can also manage your cash on the go with its highly rated mobile banking app. When it comes to checking accounts, you have three options, including the Advantage Plus Checking, which is the most popular option.

You can also save your money in the Advantage Savings account, which requires a $100 initial deposit and $8 monthly maintenance fee that you can avoid if you maintain a daily balance of  $500 or more or join the Preferred Rewards program.

As a Preferred Rewards member, you’ll lock in perks, such as higher interest rates, waived or discounted fees with a special promo code, and cash back rewards for qualifying transactions.

13. Chase Bank

Chase Bank has a large presence in the U.S. and over 50 branches in Connecticut to help you meet various banking needs.

Its full suite of offerings includes checking accounts, credit cards, and loans. The bank also provides banking solutions for children, teens, and young adults.

The most popular account at Chase is the Total Checking account, which comes with perks like online bill pay, mobile check deposit, account alerts, free credit reports, and Zelle transfers.

If you open a new checking account, you may qualify for a generous sign-on bonus.

How to Choose the Best Bank in Connecticut

Finding the right bank in Connecticut depends on your financial habits, goals, and preferences. Here’s what to consider before opening an account:

  • Services offered: Look for a bank that covers all your needs, whether that’s a free checking account, high-yield savings, loans, credit cards, or investment tools. A well-rounded bank will grow with you over time.
  • Fees and how to avoid them: Some banks charge monthly maintenance, ATM, or overdraft fees—but many also offer simple ways to waive them. Choose one that keeps fees low or easy to avoid.
  • Interest rates: If growing your savings is a priority, compare APYs on savings accounts, money market accounts, and CDs.
  • Online and mobile tools: A good app should let you deposit checks, transfer money, pay bills, and track spending easily. Mobile access is especially important if you don’t live near a branch.
  • Customer support: Whether online or in person, helpful and responsive support can make a big difference if something goes wrong.
  • Branch and ATM access: If you prefer in-person banking, choose a bank with locations and ATMs near your home or workplace.
  • Reputation: Check recent customer reviews to see how banks handle issues like fraud protection, service wait times, or technology outages.

Weighing these factors will help you find a bank in Connecticut that fits your everyday routine—and supports your long-term financial goals.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right bank in Connecticut comes down to what matters most to you—whether it’s low fees, high savings rates, convenient branch access, or strong mobile tools. With a wide range of options across national, regional, and community banks, there’s no shortage of solid choices.

Take the time to compare features that match your financial habits and goals. The best bank for you is the one that makes managing your money easier, not harder.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the largest banks in Connecticut?

The largest banks in Connecticut are M&T Bank, Webster Bank, and Bank of America. While a large bank has many advantages, like a wide range of financial tools and services, it might not be the best choice if your goal is personalized banking service.

How do I open a bank account in Connecticut?

It’s easy to open a bank account in Connecticut. All you need is a government-issued ID like a driver’s license or passport, your Social Security number, and some bank accounts require a minimum deposit.

Should I choose a bank or credit union in Connecticut?

Choosing between a bank and a credit union in Connecticut depends on your individual preferences and needs. Banks often offer a wide variety of services and have more extensive networks, while credit unions are known for personalized service and potentially lower fees.

What is the oldest bank in Connecticut?

Liberty Bank is the oldest bank in Connecticut. It was founded in 1825 and offers a plethora of personal and business banking products.

What are some regional banks in Connecticut?

There are many regional banks in Connecticut. Several examples include Bankwell Bank, Dime Bank, Jewett City Savings Bank, Newtown Savings Bank, Eastern Connecticut Savings Bank, Northwest Community Bank, Ion Bank, Chelsea Groton Bank, and Milford Bank.

Are online banks safe?

Absolutely! Even though online banks use mobile apps and online portals, most of them are member FDIC, which means your money will be covered by the federal government if the bank shuts down for any reason. As an added bonus, online-only banks typically have higher savings rates and lower fees than brick-and-mortar banks.

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Anna Baluch
Meet the author

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