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Whether you’re enjoying life in the Great Smoky Mountains or settling down in one of Tennessee’s growing cities, choosing the right bank can make managing your finances a lot easier. From big-name banks with national reach to smaller community banks with strong local roots, the Volunteer State has no shortage of options.
Whether you prioritize low fees, strong customer service, or tech-forward features, the best banks in Tennessee offer something for every type of account holder.
14 Best Banks in Tennessee
With everything from full-service national banks to mobile-first platforms, Tennessee’s banking scene is built to serve a wide range of financial needs. We’ve reviewed the top choices to bring you a list of the best banks in Tennessee for checking, savings, business services, and more.
U.S. Bank is a strong contender for those looking for a well-rounded banking experience in Tennessee.
Offering the local touch you might expect from a community bank, the bank also provides an extensive range of services often associated with national banking giants.
U.S. Bank is currently welcoming new applicants with a special offering:
Subject to certain terms and limitations. Offer valid through May 6, 2025. Member FDIC.
Offer may not be available if you live outside of the U.S. Bank footprint or are not an existing client of U.S. Bank or State Farm.
The account includes a free debit card that can be locked or unlocked if ever misplaced or stolen. There are no ATM transaction fees at U.S. Bank ATMs and no surcharge fees at over 40,000 MoneyPass® Network ATMs.
The checking account requires a $25 opening deposit and a $6.95 monthly fee. This fee can be waived for those 24 and under, 65 and over, or military members (must self-disclose).
Additionally, the fee can be waived with monthly deposits of $1,000+, an average balance of $1,500+, or holding an eligible U.S. Bank credit card. Qualifying for any Smart Rewards® tier (Primary, Plus, Premium, or Pinnacle) also waives the fee.
SoFi SoFi is one of the strongest online banking options available in Tennessee.
It combines fee-free banking with features designed to help you earn more and manage your money easily.
Its flagship product, the Checking & Savings account, earns up to 3.80% APY on savings and 0.50% APY on checking. There are no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements.
New customers can qualify for a $50 to $300 welcome bonus based on direct deposit activity.
The account also includes early direct deposit, up to $50 in overdraft coverage with qualifying deposits, and access to more than 55,000 Allpoint® ATMs.
Deposits are FDIC-insured up to $2 million through a network of participating banks.
Fifth Third Bank is a well-established regional bank with a presence in Tennessee and 10 other states.
The bank has branches in several cities across the state, including Antioch, Brentwood, Franklin, Hendersonville, Knoxville, Murfreesboro, and Nashville.
Fifth Third’s Momentum Checking account has no monthly maintenance fees and does not require a minimum deposit or balance to open.
Customers also enjoy fee-free access to over 2,100 Fifth Third ATMs and more than 40,000 partner ATMs nationwide.
Other perks include Early Pay, which gives you access to your paycheck up to two days early, and a grace period to resolve overdrafts before fees apply.
Upgrade is a strong choice for Tennessee residents who want a digital banking option with real rewards.
The Rewards Checking Plus account offers up to 2% cash back on everyday debit card purchases.
There are no monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, or transfer fees, and no minimum balance requirements
Early direct deposit is available, which gives access to paychecks up to two days sooner.
The Performance Savings account pays up to 4.02% APY on balances over $1,000.
Customers can manage their accounts through a streamlined mobile app and website that support bill payments, mobile check deposits, and real-time transaction alerts.
Upgrade also gives users access to more than 55,000 fee-free ATMs across the country, making it easy to withdraw cash when needed.
Regions Bank is a strong contender for your banking needs in Tennessee.
The bank boasts nearly 200 branches in key cities such as Brentwood, Clarksville, Cleveland, Jackson, Johnson City, Knoxville, Memphis, Murfreesboro, and Nashville.
What distinguishes Regions Bank is its unique checking account rewards program and its LifeGreen Savings account, which is free from monthly maintenance fees.
Those interested in CDs will find a wide range of terms available, from as short as seven days to as long as 72 months.
Regions enhances your financial experience with a comprehensive mobile app and round-the-clock customer service through a secure online messaging system.
FirstBank is one of Tennessee’s largest community banks, with a history that dates back to 1906.
Headquartered in Nashville, it operates 70 branches across 46 cities in the state, including Chattanooga, Franklin, Jackson, Knoxville, Memphis, Murfreesboro, and Nashville.
The bank offers a full range of personal banking services, including checking and savings accounts, mobile and online banking, personal loans, overdraft services, and debit and credit cards.
On the business side, FirstBank provides checking and deposit accounts, business loans, treasury management, and commercial debit and credit cards.
The bank also specializes in mortgage lending, including financing for manufactured homes, and offers investment and trust services for long-term planning.
Eastman Credit Union, based in Kingsport, has served Tennessee residents since 1934.
With over 25 branches across the region, including locations in Bristol, Johnson City, Kingsport, and Greeneville, ECU offers a strong mix of in-person service and digital convenience.
Members have access to personal banking products like ECU Beyond Free Checking, savings accounts, money markets, and investment certificates.
The credit union also offers IRAs, asset management, and a full suite of loans, including auto, personal, mortgage, and RV loans.
Credit card options come with rewards and can be managed through ECU’s dedicated mobile app.
For businesses, ECU provides checking, savings, loans, and other financial tools tailored to local entrepreneurs.
Membership is open to those who live, work, worship, or attend school in eligible counties.
Cadence Bank provides a strong mix of personal and business banking services across Tennessee.
It operates 28 branches in cities such as Alamo, Bartlett, Brentwood, Chattanooga, Collierville, Covington, Franklin, Jackson, Memphis, and Trenton.
The popular “My Way” checking account requires just $50 to open. The $8 monthly fee can be waived by meeting certain requirements, and there’s no charge for eStatements.
Cadence also offers specialized checking for seniors and competitive CD rates for savers.
Wealth management services include retirement planning, trust services, and investment management, making it a solid choice for long-term financial planning.
First Horizon Bank is a regional bank with a long-standing presence in Tennessee, offering convenient access across the state.
It operates more than 70 branches in cities including Chattanooga, Clarksville, Franklin, Johnson City, Knoxville, Memphis, Murfreesboro, and Nashville.
For everyday banking, First Horizon offers several checking account options. You can open an account with as little as $50, and there are no monthly fees or ongoing balance requirements for the SmartView Checking account.
While the bank’s savings rates are modest, First Horizon delivers added value through services like mobile check deposit, bill pay, and Zelle integration for fast money transfers.
It also offers a full suite of personal lending products, including mortgages, home equity lines, and auto loans.
First Horizon also caters to small businesses and offers wealth management services for customers seeking long-term financial planning.
Wilson Bank & Trust stands as a well-established local bank with 29 branches specifically catering to the communities in middle Tennessee.
Offering a diverse range of financial products for both individual and business needs, you can find checking and savings accounts, CDs, IRAs, and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).
For business owners, Wilson Bank & Trust also extends its services to include business deposit accounts such as checking, money market accounts, and CDs.
The bank’s digital capabilities shouldn’t be overlooked; its website and mobile app facilitate a smooth banking experience, enabling features like loan payments, balance checking, and mobile deposits.
Beyond everyday banking, wealth management services, investment options, and insurance services round out their comprehensive offerings.
Chase is the largest bank in the U.S., with a strong presence in Tennessee.
You’ll find branches in cities such as Chattanooga, Farragut, Knoxville, Maryville, and Oak Ridge, along with access to over 15,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide.
The Chase Total Checking® account requires a $25 deposit to open. While it carries a $12 monthly fee, the bank provides multiple ways to waive it.
New customers can also qualify for a $300 bonus by meeting direct deposit requirements.
Chase offers competitive CD rates and is well known for its rewards and travel credit cards, making it a strong option for those seeking both convenience and value.
Bank of America is a major national bank with widespread coverage throughout Tennessee.
It operates branches in cities like Chattanooga, Clarksville, Franklin, Johnson City, Knoxville, Memphis, Murfreesboro, and Nashville, offering easy access to both in-person banking and a large ATM network.
The bank’s Advantage Plus checking account requires a $100 opening deposit and carries a $12 monthly fee, which can be waived by meeting certain requirements.
There is no ongoing minimum balance requirement, making it a flexible option once your account is set up. Customers benefit from fee-free access to over 15,000 Bank of America ATMs across the U.S.
Bank of America also offers competitive CD rates, with some terms reaching up to 4.75% APY.
For those looking beyond basic banking, the bank provides credit cards with attractive sign-up bonuses and access to Merrill for investment and retirement planning.
Bank of Tennessee is a community bank that has been locally owned and operated since its establishment in 1974.
Headquartered in Kingsport, the bank serves its customers through a network of 21 branches across Tennessee and North Carolina.
The bank offers a comprehensive range of financial products and services, from checking and savings accounts to CDs, money market accounts, and IRAs.
Additionally, Bank of Tennessee provides various lending options including personal loans, home loans, and home improvement loans.
For business clients, the bank also offers business checking accounts, business debit and credit cards, financing solutions, and business savings accounts.
How to Choose the Best Bank in Tennessee
The right bank can make a big difference in how you manage your finances. Whether you’re new to Tennessee or just reevaluating your options, these key factors can help you find the best fit.
Location and accessibility: Look for banks with branches and ATMs near your home or workplace. Many top banks in Tennessee have strong coverage in cities like Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, but access matters just as much in smaller towns.
Range of services: Make sure the bank offers the services you need. Some focus on personal banking with strong savings rates or loan options. Others are better suited for business customers with specialized accounts and financing tools.
Fees and rates: Pay close attention to monthly fees, ATM charges, and overdraft penalties. Also consider interest rates on savings and CDs. The best banks in Tennessee keep fees low and offer solid returns on deposits.
Online and mobile tools: A good mobile app and online platform are essential. You should be able to deposit checks, transfer funds, and pay bills without needing to visit a branch.
Customer service: Strong customer support matters. Look for banks with helpful in-person staff and responsive phone or online support.
Reputation and reviews: Ask people you trust and check online reviews. Consistent complaints or praise can tell you a lot about what to expect.
Final Thoughts
Tennessee offers no shortage of reliable banking options, whether you’re looking for strong mobile tools, low-fee checking, or competitive CD rates. From national names to regional and community banks, there is something for nearly every banking style.
Take time to compare your priorities, whether that’s easy branch access, rewards on spending, or solid savings yields. With a little research, you can find a bank that fits your everyday needs and long-term goals.
Dawn is a personal finance writer with extensive experience in finance, technology, real estate, and small business. She specializes in making complex financial topics easy to understand.
