Best National Banks of 2025
Written by
Rudri Patel
Edited by
Elizabeth Constantineau
National banks operate across the country, offering thousands of branches and ATMs, plus the convenience of managing your money wherever you go. These banks benefit those who want services, convenience and accessibility, and a comprehensive and stable financial institution. In this guide, you’ll discover the best national banks of 2025 and learn how to choose the right one for your needs. 
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Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased bank reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our in-depth bank review methodology.
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TOP WINNERS
Bank/Institution
Ratings
Savings Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
Key Highlights
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GOLD WINNER
Best in Checking Accounts
*
Mobile App
Best in Premium Checking Accounts
SILVER WINNER
Best in Premium Checking Accounts
Up to
Many Branch Locations
Account Perks
BRONZE WINNER
Best in Mobile App Experience
Up to
Best Bank in Arizona
Best Bank in California
More About the Best National Banks Winners
GOLD WINNER
Best For
Business Banking
National Banks
Credit Cards
Auto Loans
Fee-Free Checking and Savings
Capital One stands out for its fee-free checking and savings options as well as its extensive ATM network. The checking account earns a APY no matter what your balance and the 360 Performance Savings account has a APY.
Branch Availability
Over 250
Mobile App Rating
4.9 on the Apple App Store and 4.5 on Google Play
Products Offered
Checking and savings accounts, CDs, credit cards, business banking and auto loans
Pros
- No minimum deposit or monthly maintenance fee
- Competitive APYs
- Customer service
Cons
- Cash deposit limitations
- Customer service limitations
Why We Like Capital One
Capital One offers fee-free checking and savings accounts, competitive interest rates and access to over 70,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide. Capital One also offers a credit card with cash-back rewards. 24/7 customer service is available, along with Eno, the mobile assistant chat service.
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SILVER WINNER
Best For
Credit Cards
National Banks
Home Loans
Auto Loans
Investments
Everyday Banking and a Variety of Services
Wells Fargo has several banking products for everyday banking as well as options for mortgages, auto loans and credit cards. The app is user-friendly and the wide network of ATMs makes it easy to withdraw cash without paying a fee.
Total Branch Locations
Over 4,300 in the U.S.
Mobile App Rating
4.9 on the Apple App Store and 4.8 on Google Play
Other Products Offered
Credit cards, home loans, auto loans, investments
Pros
- Extensive branch and ATM networkÂ
- Diverse product offerings
- User-friendly digital interface
Cons
- Minimum deposit requirements and monthly maintenance fees
- High overdraft fees
- Low interest rate on savings accounts
Why We Like Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo offers one-stop everyday banking and financial planning services. There are several products for consumers and accessibility to branches and ATMs.
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BRONZE WINNER
Best For
Investment Management
National Banks
Corporate and Commercial Banking
Home, Vehicle and Personal Loans
$25 Minimum Deposit for Checking Accounts
U.S. Bank provides services for everyday banking and specialty services like loans, investments and commercial banking. The U.S. Bank app is user friendly and there are over 40,000 ATMs.
Total Branch Locations
Over 2,000
Mobile App Rating
4.8 on the Apple App Store and 4.7 on Google Play
Products Offered
Everyday banking, investment management, commercial banking, home, vehicle and personal loans
Pros
- Diverse product offerings
- Extensive branch and ATM network
- 24/7 customer service
Cons
- Low interest rate on savings accounts
- Monthly maintenance fees
- High overdraft fees
Why We Like U.S. Bank
U.S. Bank offers a wide range of banking products, including checking, savings, loans and investment services, making it a one-stop solution for financial needs. It has an extensive branch and ATM network and a user-friendly app.
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Best For
Credit Cards
National Banks
Investment Management
Personal and Home Loans
Minimum Balance To Earn APY is $0
Citi offers several diverse products, from everyday banking to investments to personal and home loans. There are also more than 70,000 fee-free ATMs across the country.
Total Branch Locations
658
Mobile App Rating
4.9 on the Apple App Store and 4.8 on Google Play
Products Offered
Checking, savings, investment management, credit cards, personal and home loans, CDs
Pros
- No overdraft fees
- Diverse product offerings
- Extensive ATM and branch network
Cons
- Monthly maintenance fees
- High balance requirements for fee waivers
- Limited availability of high-yield accounts
Why We Like Citi
Citi has several consumer products, a vast network of ATMs and no charges on overdraft fees.
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Best For
Investments
National Banks
Credit Cards
Home and Auto Loans
Over 4,900 Locations Available
Chase Bank offers eight different checking account options with little to no minimum deposits, as well as options for investments, loans and credit cards. It also has nationwide banks, with several locations to assist you.
Total Branch Locations
Over 4,900
Mobile App Rating
4.8 on the Apple Store and 4.5 on Google Play
Other Products Offered
Investments, credit cards, home and auto loans
Pros
- Diverse product offeringsÂ
- Extensive branch offerings
- User-friendly digital banking
Cons
- Low interest rate on savings accounts
- Monthly maintenance fees
Why We Like Chase
Chase offers several diverse products, including eight different checking accounts, investment opportunities, loans and credit cards. It also has an extensive network of branches and ATMs across the country.
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Best For
Credit Cards
National Banks
Mortgages
Loans
Investment
Retirement
User-Friendly Mobile App
Truist is a regional bank with a strong national presence. It offers opportunities for consumers to handle their everyday banking, start or manage investments, take out loans and sign up for credit cards. The bank also has a strong ATM network and a user-friendly app.
Total Branch Locations
Over 1,900
Mobile App rating
4.8 on the Apple App Store and Google Play
Other Products Offered
Mortgages, credit cards, loans, investment and retirement
Pros
- No overdraft fees
- Affordable mortgage options
- Extensive branch and ATM network
Cons
- Monthly service fees
- Low interest on savings accounts
Why We Like Truist
Truist has a strong regional presence with options for checking, savings, loans and credit cards. The bank doesn’t have overdraft fees but it does offer a $100 negative balance buffer.
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Best For
Credit Cards
National Banks
Home Loans
Student and Personal Loans
Small Business Banking
Highly Rated Mobile App
PNC Bank has financial and budgeting tools, diverse product options, and an extensive network of branches and ATMs. The app is highly rated in the Apple App Store.
Total Branch Locations
Over 2,300
Mobile App Rating
4.9 on the Apple App Store and 4.5 on Google Play
Other Products Offered
Home loans, credit cards, student and personal loans, small business banking
Pros
- Competitive savings APY
- Large branch network
- Budgeting and financial planning tools
Cons
- High overdraft fees
- Monthly maintenance fees
- Lower APYs on standard accounts
Why We Like PNC
PNC Bank has a helpful wallet tool to help customers budget and develop a financial plan. It also offers a full suite of products, including checking and savings accounts, loans and small business offerings.
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Best For
Credit Cards
National Banks
Home Loans
Investments
Wide Variety of Products and Services
Bank of America has thousands of branches across the country, as well as multiple product offerings. The user-friendly app is highly rated in the Apple App Store with an extensive network of ATMs.
Total Branch Locations
Over 3,700
Mobile App Rating
4.8 on the Apple App Store and 4.6 on Google Play
Other Products Offered
Credit cards, home loans, investments
Pros
- Extensive network of branches and ATMs
- Preferred rewards program
- Diverse suite of products
Cons
- Low savings interest rates
- Monthly maintenance fees
Why We Like Bank of America
Bank of America offers a network of branches and ATMs, a robust digital banking experience, and a comprehensive range of financial products, including checking, savings, credit cards, loans and investments.
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Best Banks
Checking Accounts
Savings Accounts
CD Account Rates
Money Market Accounts
Research Methodology
To discover the Best National Banks of 2025, GOBankingRates analyzed the top national institutions, (excluding online banks and neobanks) that have branches in at least 25 states and have over $400 billion in total assets, or both. GOBankingRates considered the following factors (1) total assets as sourced from the FDIC; (2) checking product minimum deposit; (3) monthly checking fee ratio (percentage of the minimum to avoid fees compared to the monthly fee itself); (4) savings product minimum deposit; (5) savings product APY; (6) Bauer rating (out of 5 stars); (7) products/services offered (auto loans, mortgage loans, credit cards, investment services and insurance); and (8) the average mobile app rating between the Google Play (Android) and Apple stores. All factors were then scored and combined, with the lowest score being the best. Factors (1), (2) and (4) were weighed 0.5 times, factor (5) was weighed 2.5 times; and factor (7) was weighed 1.5 times. All products and offerings had to be available as of Nov. 1, 2024, to be considered. Rates are subject to change; unless otherwise noted, rates are updated periodically. All other information on accounts is accurate as of Aug. 28, 2025.
Quick Take: What Is a National Bank?
A national bank is federally chartered and overseen by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. Unlike state banks, they can operate across multiple states, giving customers access to a wider range of products, larger ATM networks and nationwide service.
Here are some key takeaways:
- Chartered by: Federal government
- Services: Broad selection of banking products
- FDIC insurance: Yes
- Branch network: Available nationwide
- Regulation: Must file quarterly call reports with the Federal Reserve
- Best for: People who travel frequently or want consistent access no matter where they live
Pros and Cons of National Banks
Before you decide on which national bank is best for your buck, it’s a good idea to do a comparison of the perks and drawbacks. Here are a few pros and cons associated with national banks: 
Pros
- Extensive branch and ATM networks nationwide
- Wide range of financial products and services
- Strong digital banking platforms
- Consistent policies and procedures across all locations
Cons
- Less personalized service compared to smaller banks
- Slower resolution of issues
- Limited flexibility on loan approvals and fee waivers
- Higher fees than regional banks or credit unions
Alternatives to National Banks  
How do national banks compare to other types of banks and financial institutions? Here’s a side-by-side look:
| Type | Coverage | Key Strengths | Potential Drawbacks | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National banks | -Nationwide access -Extensive ATM network  | -Wide range of products -Physical branches | -Higher fees -Lower interest rates | Individuals who need consistent access and ATMs domestically and internationally  |
| Regional banks | Regional focus | -Personalized attention  -Competitive rates | Limited reach | Customers who live near the bank locations |
| Credit unions | Membership driven  | -Community focus -High APY Low fees  | Requires membership | Members looking for low fees and community focus |
| Online banks | Fully digital  | -Low or no fees -High APYs | No in-person service  | Tech-savvy individuals |
How To Choose a National Bank
Whether you want to open your account online or at a brick-and-mortar bank location, you can follow these steps to pick the best national bank for you.
1. Compare APYs and Fees
- National banks are not known for their high APYs.
- Narrow your selection by finding the best APY for the financial product you need.
- Look at the fees and whether you can qualify for fee waivers.
- Find an institution that requires no or low minimum deposits and balances.
2. Read the Fine Print
- Read the fee schedule and account disclosures carefully.
- Compare the restrictions between the banks that made your list.
3. Evaluate Online and Mobile Access 
- Find out the mobile app rating in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Look at user reviews and comments on the app and website.
- Understand how to work the bank’s app and mobile access.
- Determine which bank’s app and mobile access is the most user-friendly.
4. Look for Bonus Offers
- National banks sometimes offer new account bonuses.
- Compare bonuses between the national banks.
5. Make Your Choice
- Check for branch availability and ATM coverage near your location.
- Compare interest rates, fees and deposit options between your banks.
- Double-check if your funds are FDIC-insured.
How To Switch Banks: 7 Quick Steps
It’s easier than you think to switch banks. Here are the steps you can follow:
- Research and choose the bank that meets your needs.
- Find out the requirements for opening an account.
- Gather the documentation you need to make the switch.
- List all automatic payments, deposits and linked accounts from your old bank.
- Update your bill payment and direct deposit information.
- Transfer remaining funds from your old account to your new account — be sure to keep enough money to fund pending transactions.
- Wait until your transactions clear your old account and close it. 
Best National Banks FAQ
Customers preparing to join a national bank may have additional questions that require answers before making this decision. Here are some common questions and answers about national banks.- Which is better, a state bank or a national bank?
- It depends on your needs. A state bank offers personalized service and a local focus, while national banks have widespread branch and ATM accessibility and comprehensive financial options.
- What services do state banks offer compared to national banks?
- Usually, state banks offer checking, savings and loans similar to national banks.
- Are national banks more secure than state banks?
- If both are FDIC-insured, they have the same protection for your funds.
- Do national banks have more branches than state banks?
- Yes, typically national banks are countrywide, whereas state banks have more of a regional presence.
- Do national banks offer better technology?
- Yes, usually. National banks have apps and mobile banking websites that are tech-forward and have appropriate security measures.
- Can you open accounts online?
- Yes, most have a fully digital online application.
- Are deposits insured?
- Yes, deposits at national banks are insured up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank.
More Resources for Banking
Best Banks
Checking Accounts
Savings Accounts
CD Account Rates
Money Market Accounts
Heather Taylor, Caitlyn Moorhead, Daria Uhlig, Ann Logue, John Csiszar and Gabrielle Olya contributed to the reporting for this article.
*Capital One interest rates accurate as of 10/1/2025. See website for all current rates.
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