10 Best Banks in New Jersey for 2025

10 min read

Finding the right bank for your needs can be a pivotal decision that impacts various aspects of your financial life. Whether you’re seeking a comprehensive suite of services, low fees, or excellent customer service, the Garden State has a myriad of banking options to suit your needs.

With an overwhelming number of choices, from local community banks to national giants, selecting the right one can feel like a daunting task. But, don’t worry, we’ve done the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.

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10 Best Banks in New Jersey

New Jersey residents have a diverse set of banking institutions to choose from, but not all banks offer the same level of value or convenience. To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve compiled a list of the best banks in New Jersey that stand out for their exceptional services, competitive rates, and customer satisfaction.

Whether you are a college student, a working professional, or planning your retirement, this roundup is designed to help you make an informed choice. So without further ado, let’s dive into the list.

1. TD Bank

TD Bank has nearly 200 locations across New Jersey, with branches in cities like Cherry Hill, Edison, Jersey City, Newark, Paterson, and Trenton.

Its strong branch network is supported by a solid online and mobile banking experience.

The Essential Bank Account is a standout option, featuring a $4.95 monthly fee that’s waived for customers ages 13 to 17.

There’s no minimum deposit or balance requirement, and the account has no overdraft fees.

New customers can earn a $200 bonus with qualifying direct deposits. TD Bank also offers competitive rates on savings accounts and CDs, providing flexible options for building your savings.

With 24/7 live customer support and a mix of digital tools and physical locations, TD Bank is a reliable everyday banking option for New Jersey residents.

2. SoFi

SoFi offers a high-yield online Checking & Savings account with up to 3.80% APY on savings and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

There are no monthly fees, no minimums, and new customers can earn a bonus between $50 and $300, depending on the direct deposit amount.

You can get paid up to two days early with direct deposit, and if your balance dips, SoFi provides up to $50 in overdraft coverage with no fees for eligible accounts. Your money is also protected with up to $2 million in FDIC insurance.

For easy access to cash, SoFi gives you fee-free withdrawals at over 55,000 Allpoint® ATMs. With a solid mix of convenience, strong rates, and no hidden costs, it’s a smart choice for everyday banking.

3. Upgrade

Upgrade offers a streamlined online banking experience in New Jersey through its partnership with Cross River Bank, with FDIC insurance coverage up to $1 million.

The Rewards Checking Plus account comes with no monthly fees, no overdraft charges, and no minimum deposit requirement.

Customers can get paid up to two days early with direct deposit and earn up to 2% cash back on debit card purchases.

Pair it with the Premier Savings account to earn up to 4.02% APY on balances of $1,000 or more.

With a user-friendly mobile app and strong rewards, Upgrade is a solid option for anyone looking to manage their finances online without the extra costs.

4. PNC Bank

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PNC Bank is a reliable choice in New Jersey, with 193 branches across the state, including locations in Cherry Hill, Edison, Jersey City, Morristown, Newark, Princeton, and Toms River.

Its flagship product, the Virtual Wallet checking account, comes with a $7 monthly fee that’s waived if you receive at least $500 in direct deposits or maintain a $500 combined balance.

The minimum opening deposit is just $25, and there’s no ongoing balance requirement.

New customers can earn a $50 bonus with the basic account, or upgrade to Virtual Wallet with Performance Spend or Performance Select to earn $200 or $400, respectively.

PNC also gives customers access to over 60,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide and offers competitive CD rates. Its mobile app includes built-in wealth management tools, making it a strong all-around banking option.

5. Valley National Bank

Valley National Bank offers the local service of a community bank with the wider reach of a regional one.

It has branches across New Jersey, including Clifton, Hackensack, Jersey City, Morristown, Newark, and Wayne.

New customers can earn a $250 bonus with the My Loyalty Checking account by setting up bill pay or receiving at least one qualifying direct deposit.

The account has no monthly maintenance fees, requires a $100 opening deposit, and offers up to $10 per month in out-of-network ATM fee reimbursements.

Valley also provides competitive rates on CDs and money market accounts. With business checking options and accounts tailored for teens and students, it’s a versatile choice for many New Jersey residents.

6. American Heritage Credit Union

American Heritage Credit Union, although primarily based in Pennsylvania, has a branch in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and offers an attractive option for those living in the area.

To become a member, you’ll need to meet certain criteria such as living, working, or studying in approved Philadelphia-area communities, being employed by one of their workplace partners, or being related to an existing member. Alternatively, you can join by becoming a member of the Kids-N-Hope Foundation.

Despite its limited branch presence, American Heritage Credit Union offers compelling reasons to consider membership.

Both individual consumers and small business owners can find excellent account options here, with access to over 30,000 ATMs nationwide without any fees.

The credit union doesn’t charge monthly fees for checking accounts, and there is no minimum opening deposit. If you happen to use an out-of-network ATM, the union will reimburse you for up to 10 such fees each month.

American Heritage Credit Union offers competitive rates on both savings accounts and CDs, providing strong returns for its members.

Additional benefits include competitive rates for auto and home loans, as well as a wide array of business banking services.

7. Chase Bank

Chase Bank is a strong contender for both individuals and small business owners in New Jersey, boasting 190 branches throughout the state.

For individual account holders, Chase currently provides a $200 bonus for new Chase Total Checking account customers who set up direct deposit.

In terms of fees, there is a $12 monthly fee for the checking account, but this can be waived if you meet certain qualifications. There is no minimum opening deposit, and no need to maintain a minimum balance.

For business owners, Chase offers a host of benefits, including up to $500 in bonuses for opening a business checking account.

Their business credit cards also come with a $750 bonus cash back, given you meet certain qualifying activities. The bank also offers various types of business loans, from lines of credit to commercial financing options.

8. Capital One

Capital One is a well-known national bank with a strong presence in New Jersey, operating branches in cities like Edison, Elizabeth, Fort Lee, Iselin, Jersey City, Livingston, Newark, and North Plainfield.

Convenience is a major strength. Customers have access to over 70,000 fee-free ATMs through the Allpoint and MoneyPass networks.

You can also deposit cash at Capital One ATMs, CVS, Walgreens, or Duane Reade locations.

Capital One stands out for its no-overdraft-fee policy. You can choose to have transactions declined, or link a savings or money market account for automatic transfers if your balance runs low.

There are no monthly maintenance fees, no minimum deposit to open an account, and competitive rates on savings accounts and CDs.

Select branches even feature Capital One Cafés with Wi-Fi, creating a comfortable space to manage your finances in person.

9. Wells Fargo

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Wells Fargo, a national bank with a presence in New Jersey, offers several appealing options and bonuses. Currently, the bank is offering a $300 bonus for new customers who open a checking account and receive $1,000 or more in qualifying direct deposits.

For those interested in opening a new savings account, Wells Fargo has an attractive offer as well. You can earn a $525 bonus if you deposit $25,000 into the account within the first 30 days and leave it there for at least 90 days.

Customers can also access their cash for free at over 12,000 Wells Fargo ATMs across the country.

The bank charges a $10 monthly fee for its checking accounts, but this can be easily waived by meeting certain conditions.

There’s no minimum deposit needed to open an account and no ongoing minimum balance requirements.

Wells Fargo also offers competitive rates on savings accounts and CDs.

10. Santander Bank

Santander Bank is a regional bank in New Jersey, boasting over 20 branches throughout the state.

The bank offers a wide range of services tailored to individuals and small businesses. Additionally, customers gain access to an expansive network of more than 2,000 domestic ATMs across the U.S.

One of Santander’s popular checking accounts is the Simply Right Checking, which provides all the essentials.

The account comes with a $10 monthly fee, but you can easily dodge this fee by making at least one transaction per calendar month. You’ll need a minimum deposit of $25 to open the account.

For those looking to save, Santander offers a savings account with no minimum balance requirement and just a $25 minimum opening deposit.

To complement its physical services, Santander also offers robust digital banking tools, including online and mobile banking capabilities.

How to Choose the Best Bank in New Jersey

The right bank can make managing your finances easier and more cost-effective. When comparing banks in New Jersey, focus on the features that match how you bank every day.

  • Location and proximity: If you prefer in-person service or need regular ATM access, look for branches and ATMs near your home or work.
  • Online and mobile experience: A well-designed app and online platform should support mobile check deposits, bill pay, and account tracking. Check reviews or explore demos if available.
  • Account options: Make sure the bank offers the account types you need—whether that’s basic checking, high-yield savings, or business accounts.
  • Interest rates and APYs: Competitive APYs on savings, money market accounts, and CDs can help your money grow faster.
  • Fees and minimums: Review each bank’s fee structure and minimum balance rules. Many banks waive fees with direct deposit or a certain balance, but others charge monthly regardless.
  • Customer service: Strong support—whether in-branch, by phone, or online—can make a big difference when issues come up.
  • Extra services and perks: Look for things like mortgage and auto loans, investment services, or sign-up bonuses. These can add extra value if they align with your financial goals.

Types of Banks in New Jersey

When it comes to banking, New Jersey offers a broad array of choices for consumers. Here’s an overview of the main categories you’ll find in the state.

National Banks

National banks have a vast presence, with branches and ATMs scattered throughout the country. They provide a wide range of financial products that include checking and savings accounts, loans, and often feature robust online platforms and mobile banking apps. Chase Bank, Capital One, and Wells Fargo are examples of such banks operating in New Jersey.

Regional Banks

Regional banks serve specific geographic areas, often covering several states. They blend local expertise with a range of services that can rival those of a larger national financial institution. In New Jersey, you’ll find regional banks like PNC Bank, Santander Bank, and Valley National Bank offering services tailored to the needs of the communities they serve.

Community Banks

Community banks focus primarily on the local area, offering personalized service and often forming close ties with local businesses and initiatives. If you prefer a bank that invests in its community, you might consider local options like Amboy Bank, Bogota Savings Bank, and Provident Bank.

Online Banks

Online banks operate without brick-and-mortar branches. These banks generally offer higher rates and lower fees due to reduced operational costs. SoFi and Upgrade are examples of online-only banks that residents of New Jersey have access to.

Credit Unions

Credit unions differ from banks in that they are member-owned and often have more favorable rates and lower fees. They typically focus on serving the community and have specific membership criteria. Examples of New Jersey credit unions include:

  • Affinity Federal Credit Union
  • American Heritage Credit Union
  • Credit Union Of New Jersey
  • Financial Resources Federal Credit Union
  • La Capitol Federal Credit Union

Bottom Line

Choosing a bank is a significant decision that impacts your financial life. Whether you prioritize customers support, high interest rates, or robust online features, New Jersey has various banking solutions to suit your needs.

From national and regional banks to community-oriented financial institutions and cutting-edge online platforms, the best banks in New Jersey offer something for everyone. Take time to evaluate what matters most to you in a banking relationship, and you’re sure to find an institution that aligns with your financial goals.

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Stephanie Faris
Meet the author

Stephanie Faris is a professional finance writer with more than a decade of experience. Her work has been featured on a variety of top finance sites, including Money Under 30, GoBankingRates, Retirable, Sapling, and Benzinga.