There are plenty of banks in Arkansas. However, they’re not all created equal. In fact, there are significant differences between them. So, how do you know which bank is right for you? It all depends on your unique situation. Maybe your goal is to build a hefty emergency fund. Or perhaps you like the idea of doing all your banking online or via your mobile device.
11 Best Banks in Arkansas
No matter what your particular needs and preferences may be, you’re sure to find a bank (or a few banks) that checks off all your boxes. Our list of the best banks in Arkansas is sure to steer you in the right direction.
1. U.S. Bank
U.S. Bank offers a wide range of banking services, including various checking and savings account options, credit cards, mortgages, and other financial services.
2. SoFi
SoFi stands out in the Arkansas banking scene with its outstanding online banking services. The institution is acclaimed for offering a remarkable 4.60% APY on its online savings account, complemented by a 0.50% APY on checking balances.
3. Chime®
As an online-only bank, Chime® provides banking services to customers across the United States, including Arkansas.
4. Bank OZK
Based in Little Rock, Bank OZK has more than 340 branches across eight states. This is one of the top regional banks in Arkansas.
5. Capital One
For a large, reputable banking solution, Capital One might make sense. While there are no physical branches in Arkansas, Capital One makes it easy to open and manage bank accounts online or via the mobile banking app.
6. Regions Bank
Regions Bank is a regional bank that serves individuals and small businesses in the Midwest, Texas, and the Southern United States. It has 82 branches in Arkansas, with 25 of those branches near Little Rock.
7. First Arkansas Bank & Trust
Also known as FAB&T, First Arkansas Bank & Trust is a solid choice if you’re looking for a local bank. There are many local branches and ATMs throughout Arkansas in cities like Jacksonville, Sherwood, Cabot, and Higden.
8. Arvest Bank
Headquartered in Bentonville, Arvest Bank is considered the oldest bank in Arkansas. It’s also the largest regional bank in the state, with $12 billion in in-state assets. You can find branches in Conway, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Hot Springs, Jonesboro, Little Rock, Rogers, Springdale, and many other locations in Arkansas.
9. CIT Bank
CIT Bank is now a division of First Citizens Bank, a leading family controlled financial institution with a reputation for high interest rates and excellent customer service. It provides an impressive lineup of products, such as the Platinum Savings account that offers 12 times the national interest rate, daily compounding interest, and no account opening or monthly maintenance fees.
10. Chase Bank
Chase Bank is a national bank with roots that date back to 1799. It has numerous locations throughout the Natural State, primarily in the Little Rock area. As a Chase customer, you can also enjoy out of state access and use more than 4,700 branches and 16,000 ATMs throughout the country.
11. Bank of America
With Bank of America, you can enjoy the benefits of a large bank and access to in-person banking. The bank has branches or financial centers and ATMs throughout Arkansas in places like Bentonville, Fayetteville, Jacksonville, Little Rock, Pine Bluff, Rogers, and Springdale.
How to Choose the Best Bank in Arkansas
Choosing among the best banks in Arkansas means weighing different aspects meticulously. Here are some factors to consider:
- Products: Some banks offer a greater selection of products than others. If you’d like to stick to one bank for all of your financial needs, you’d be better off with a larger bank that can provide you with checking accounts, savings accounts, loans, retirement accounts, and more.
- Fees: The reality is, many banks charge fees, like monthly maintenance fees and overdraft fees. Since fees can interfere with your financial goals, look for a bank that’s known for minimal to no fees. Typically, online banks charge fewer fees than brick and mortar banks because they have lower overhead costs.
- Online and mobile banking: These days, most banks and credit unions let you open and manage deposit accounts and other accounts online or through a mobile banking app. If online and mobile banking are crucial for you, focus on a bank that offers it.
- Reputation: Just because you find a bank with a website or in-person branches doesn’t mean it’s reputable. Do your own research and go with a bank that has high ratings and positive reviews from current and former customers.
- FDIC insurance: While a bank failure is unlikely, it’s certainly a possibility. For this reason, you should choose a bank that’s insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
- Customer service: Chances are you’ll have a question or concern at some point in time. Find a bank that offers excellent customer service and gives you multiple ways to go about receiving it.
Bottom Line
The Bear State offers a wide array of banks. Before you commit to one, make sure you explore all your bank and account options and weigh the pros and cons of each. Remember, that you don’t have to stay with a bank if you find a better option. Just make sure you manage any accounts you open and avoid unnecessary fees or debt. Good luck with your search for the best bank in Arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many banks are there in Arkansas?
Arkansas is home to 114 local and national banks. These banks offer banking services to Arkansas residents at 1,158 branches in more than 200 cities.
What are the largest banks in Arkansas?
There are many large banks in the Bear State. Some examples include Arvest Bank, Bank OZK, Regions Bank, U.S. Bank, First Community Bank, Citizens Bank, Bank of America, and Eagle Bank.
Should I choose an online bank?
If you feel comfortable with online banking, a digital bank like SoFi, Chime, Capital One, or CIT Bank might be worth exploring. While you won’t have access to in-person service at local branches, you may be able to lock in low fees and competitive interest rates.
Are Arkansas banks FDIC insured?
Fortunately, all reputable banks that serve Arkansas are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The standard deposit insurance amount is $250,000 per depositor per bank for each account. FDIC insurance can give you the peace of mind of knowing your money will be protected in the event of a bank failure.
Is Arvest a solid banking choice in Arkansas?
There’s a reason Arvest Bank is the oldest and largest regional bank in the state. It’s a suitable option if you’re looking for in-person service, a diverse array of products, and exceptional customer service.
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.
1. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply with Chime except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.
2. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. Chime generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.
5. Chime SpotMe is an optional, no fee service that requires a single deposit of $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to the Chime Checking Account each at least once every 34 days. All qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their account up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially, but may be later eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on member’s Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. Your limit will be displayed to you within the Chime mobile app. You will receive notice of any changes to your limit. Your limit may change at any time, at Chime’s discretion. Although there are no overdraft fees, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe won’t cover non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. See Terms and Conditions.
