11 Best Banks for Millennials for 2025

10 min read

Millennials expect more from their banks. They want banking that fits their lifestyle—quick, accessible, and free from unnecessary fees. Traditional banks don’t always keep up, which is why many are turning to online and mobile-first options that make managing money easier.

The best banks offer more than just a place to store your money. Whether it’s getting paid early, earning competitive interest, or tracking spending in real time, the right account can help you stay in control of your finances.

11 Best Banks for Millennials

We’ve rounded up the top banks that offer the best mix of convenience, affordability, and modern banking tools. Here’s a look at the best options.

1. SoFi

  • APY: Up to 3.80% APY on savings, 0.50% on checking
  • Fees: No monthly fees, no overdraft fees
  • ATMs: 55,000+ fee-free ATMs
  • Perks: Get paid up to two days early

SoFi is a smart pick for millennials who want a streamlined, all-in-one banking experience.

Its Checking & Savings account combines both into a single high-yield account with no monthly fees, plus early direct deposit to get paid up to two days sooner.

New customers can also earn up to $300 by setting up qualifying direct deposits — $5,000 or more within 25 days secures the full bonus.

SoFi’s app adds tools for saving, budgeting, and investing, and a wide fee-free ATM network makes cash access simple even without branches.

2. Current

  • APY: 4.00% on savings pods
  • Fees: No monthly fees or overdraft fees
  • ATMs: 55,000+ fee-free ATMs
  • Perks: Savings pods for goal-based saving, early direct deposit

Current is a mobile-only banking platform built for millennials who want to manage money entirely from an app.

It offers a competitive APY, no monthly fees, and early direct deposit to access paychecks sooner.

Instead of a standard savings account, users create “savings pods” to organize goals. The app also features round-up savings, instant spending alerts, and integration with Apple Pay and Google Pay.

With a large fee-free ATM network and mobile check deposit, everyday banking is easy even without branches.

3. Stash

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  • APY: Up to 4.00% on savings balances with Stash Growth or Stash+
  • Fees: No overdraft fees; $3/month for Stash Growth
  • ATMs: 55,000+ fee-free ATMs nationwide
  • Perks: Stock-Back® rewards on purchases, credit building, early direct deposit

Stash is a mobile banking platform built for millennials who want to earn rewards, build credit, and invest—all from one app.

With the Stock-Back® Debit Card, you earn pieces of stock every time you make a purchase, turning everyday spending into long-term value.

The account includes early direct deposit, access to 55,000+ fee-free ATMs, and automatic savings tools. You can also build credit with no credit check using the secured Stash Credit Builder card.

Stash charges a $3/month fee for its Growth plan, which includes access to investing, budgeting tools, and up to 4.00% APY on savings balances when requirements are met.

4. Chime®

  • APY: 3.75% APY on savings
  • Fees: No monthly fees, no overdraft fees
  • ATMs: 47,000+ fee-free ATMs
  • Perks: Get paid up to two days early, automatic savings tools

Chime is a top choice for millennials who want a fee-free banking experience with easy access to their money.

The checking account has no monthly maintenance fees, and users can get their paycheck up to two days early with direct deposit2.

Its high-yield savings account offers competitive interest rates with no limit on how much you can earn.

The mobile app makes managing money simple, with automatic savings features and instant transaction alerts.

While Chime doesn’t have physical branches, users can deposit cash at select retailers and withdraw from a nationwide network of fee-free ATMs.

5. Alliant Credit Union

  • APY: 3.10% APY on High-Rate Savings
  • Fees: No monthly fees with eStatements
  • ATMs: 80,000+ fee-free ATMs nationwide
  • Perks: Up to $20/month in ATM rebates, wide range of banking products

Alliant Credit Union pairs strong savings rates with everyday banking tools millennials value.

Its High-Rate Savings offers a competitive APY, and the checking account has no monthly fees when you opt for eStatements.

Members can tap into 80,000+ fee-free ATMs plus get up to $20 in monthly rebates for out-of-network withdrawals.

The mobile app supports bill pay, mobile deposit, and peer-to-peer transfers, keeping banking simple and flexible.

With high yields, low fees, and a full suite of products, Alliant stands out as a versatile choice for modern banking.

6. GO2bank

  • APY: 4.50% on savings (up to $5,000 balance)
  • Fees: $5 monthly fee (waived with direct deposit)
  • ATMs: 19,000+ fee-free ATMs
  • Perks: Early direct deposit, secured credit card option for building credit

GO2bank is a mobile-first banking option designed for millennials looking for convenience and financial flexibility.

It offers a high-yield savings account with a strong APY on balances up to $5,000 and provides early direct deposit for faster access to paychecks.

The secured credit card option is a standout feature, helping users build or improve their credit without a credit check.

The mobile app includes features like bill pay, overdraft protection, and mobile check deposit, making it easy to manage money from anywhere.

While Go2bank doesn’t have physical branches, it supports cash deposits at participating retailers, adding a layer of convenience for those who still use cash.

7. Capital One

  • APY: 3.50% on 360 Performance Savings
  • Fees: No monthly fees, no overdraft fees
  • ATMs: 70,000+ fee-free ATMs
  • Perks: Capital One Cafés for in-person banking, no minimum balance requirements

Capital One blends online banking with in-person access, giving customers the flexibility to manage money however they prefer.

The 360 Performance Savings account offers a competitive APY with no balance requirements, while the 360 Checking account provides fee-free banking and a user-friendly mobile app.

For those who like occasional face-to-face service, Capital One Cafés offer a relaxed setting to handle banking needs.

The app makes it easy to deposit checks, lock or unlock your debit card, and pay bills, making banking simple whether online or in person.

8. Discover

  • APY: 3.50% on Online Savings Account
  • Fees: No monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements
  • ATMs: 60,000+ fee-free ATMs nationwide
  • Perks: 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in monthly debit card purchases, early direct deposit

Discover Bank offers a high-yield savings account with a strong APY and no monthly fees, making it easy to grow your savings.

Its Cashback Debit checking account adds extra value by offering 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month, a rare perk for a checking account.

With a large ATM network and features like early direct deposit, Discover provides a convenient and rewarding banking experience.

The mobile app makes managing money simple, whether you’re transferring funds, tracking spending, or depositing checks on the go.

9. Varo

  • APY: Up to 5.00% on savings balances up to $5,000; 2.50% on balances above $5,000
  • Fees: No monthly maintenance fees, no overdraft fees, no minimum balance requirements
  • ATMs: 40,000+ fee-free ATMs nationwide
  • Perks: Early direct deposit up to two days early, automatic savings tools, cash advances up to $250

Varo Bank offers a high-yield savings account with one of the best APYs available, making it a strong choice for those looking to grow their money faster.

With no monthly fees, no overdraft charges, and no minimum balance requirements, it’s a cost-effective option for everyday banking.

The bank provides access to a large ATM network and features like early direct deposit and automated savings tools to help users stay on top of their finances.

For those needing short-term cash, Varo also offers cash advances of up to $250, making it a flexible solution for unexpected expenses.

10. Ally Bank

  • APY: 3.50% on savings balances, 0.10 to 0.25% on checking balances
  • Fees: No monthly maintenance fees, no overdraft fees, no minimum balance requirements
  • ATMs: 75,000+ fee-free ATMs nationwide; up to $10 per statement cycle reimbursed for out-of-network ATM fees
  • Perks: Early direct deposit up to two days early, spending buckets for budgeting, CoverDraft℠ overdraft protection up to $250

Ally Bank offers a fully online banking experience with an Interest Checking Account that earns interest on balances.

With no monthly fees, no overdraft charges, and no minimum balance requirements, it provides a cost-effective way to manage everyday finances.

Customers have access to a large fee-free ATM network, and Ally reimburses up to $10 per statement cycle for out-of-network ATM fees.

The bank also includes useful features like early direct deposit, spending buckets for budgeting, and CoverDraft℠ overdraft protection of up to $250 to help users stay on top of their money.

11. American Express National Bank

  • APY: 3.50% on High Yield Savings Account
  • Fees: No monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements
  • Access: 24/7 online account management
  • Customer Support: 24/7 customer service

American Express offers a High Yield Savings Account with a strong APY, making it a solid option for those looking to grow their savings.

With no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements, it’s accessible for both new and experienced savers.

Customers can manage their accounts online at any time, ensuring flexibility and convenience. The bank also provides 24/7 customer support, so help is always available when needed.

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How to Choose the Best Bank for Your Needs

Finding the right bank depends on your financial habits and what features matter most to you. Whether you prefer in-person service or a fully digital experience, here are the key factors to consider:

  • Reputation: Read customer reviews to check for good service, fair fees, and a hassle-free banking experience.
  • Branch Access: Need face-to-face service? A traditional bank with local branches may be the best fit.
  • Mobile Features: Look for mobile apps with check deposits, budgeting tools, and peer-to-peer transfers for easy banking on the go.
  • Fees & Rates: Online-only banks often have higher APYs and fewer fees, like ATM fees and foreign transaction fees, since they don’t have the overhead of physical branches.
  • Products & Services: Make sure the bank offers the accounts, loans, or investment options you need to manage your finances effectively.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best bank as a millennial depends on how you manage your money. Whether you want a fully online bank with high savings rates or a traditional bank with local branches, there’s an option that fits your needs.

Compare features, fees, and perks to find the right fit for your lifestyle. The best bank should make managing your finances easier—not more complicated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open accounts at multiple banks?

Yes, many people use different banks for different needs—one for high-yield savings, another for everyday checking, and possibly a third for credit building or loans. Just be sure to track all accounts to avoid unnecessary fees or inactivity penalties.

Are credit unions a good option for millennials?

Credit unions can be a great option for millennials, especially those looking for personalized service, lower fees, and higher savings rates. However, credit unions often have membership criteria, such as location or affiliation with specific organizations, so it’s important to check eligibility requirements before joining.

Do online banks offer the same security as traditional banks?

Yes, online banks are FDIC-insured just like traditional banks, meaning your deposits are protected up to $250,000 per account holder. Many also offer strong security measures like two-factor authentication and fraud monitoring.

What happens if I need to deposit cash with an online bank?

Some online banks allow cash deposits through partner retailers like Walmart or CVS, though there may be small fees. Others require you to deposit cash into a linked account at a traditional bank, then transfer the funds digitally.

Are mobile-only banks reliable for long-term banking?

Yes, as long as they are FDIC-insured and have a strong reputation. Many mobile banks partner with traditional banks to provide services, ensuring your money is just as secure as it would be with a brick-and-mortar institution.

What should I do if my bank raises fees or lowers interest rates?

Banks adjust fees and interest rates over time, so it’s a good idea to review your account terms regularly. If your bank becomes less competitive, consider switching to one that better meets your needs.

Anna Baluch
Meet the author

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