12 Best Banks in Kansas for 2024

Kansas is growing, particularly in metropolitan areas like Kansas City and Topeka. Whether you’re a longtime resident or you’re new to the state, there are plenty of banks in Kansas to meet your financial needs, from checking accounts with no minimum deposit to savings account options with competitive interest rates.

Kansas Welcomes You

12 Best Banks in Kansas

Kansas residents have plenty of options when it comes to banking services. Whether it’s a small bank like Capitol Federal Savings Bank or a local branch of a big bank like Bank of America, you can find the bank that works for you. Here are some of the top banks in Kansas to help you with your search.

1. U.S. Bank

U.S. Bank holds a significant footprint in Kansas, combining the convenience of local branches with the extensive services of a national bank.

U.S. Bank is currently welcoming new applicants with a special online offering:

  • Earn up to $700 when you open a new U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking account and a Standard Savings account, and complete qualifying activities.
  • Subject to certain terms and limitations. Offer valid through June 27, 2024. 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.

2. SoFi

The SoFi Checking & Savings account delivers a unique online banking experience. Boasting a standout 4.60% APY on the online savings account and 0.50% for checking account balances, they also offer bonuses from $50 to $250 based on your direct deposit total.

Say goodbye to monthly fees and overdraft fees with SoFi, and enjoy no-fee overdraft protection up to $50 with a qualifying direct deposit.

You can also receive your paycheck up to two days earlier when you set up direct deposit. For cash withdrawals, over 55,000 ATMs globally are at your disposal without any charges, thanks to the Allpoint® Network.

To top it off, SoFi ensures strong FDIC insurance for your funds, covering up to $2M.

3. GO2bank

GO2bank, operated by Green Dot, stands out as a user-friendly online bank. Customers can effortlessly open a checking account and high yield savings account with an impressive 4.50% APY for balances up to $5,000.

There’s no minimum deposit to open the GO2bank account, and no minimum balance requirements. With a vast network of 90,000 retail locations for cash deposits and 55,000 fee-free ATMs, managing finances is a breeze. Transferring money from another bank? That’s done without a fee.

With GO2bank, you can get your paycheck up to two days early and government benefits even four days ahead with direct deposits.

If you receive a direct deposit in a month, and the $5 monthly fee is waived. For unexpected expenses, there’s an optional overdraft protection up to $200.

For those aiming to boost their credit score, GO2bank’s Secured Visa Credit Card can be a valuable tool.

4. Commerce Bank

Commerce Bank is a regional bank worth considering, especially for those residing in North or Central Kansas where they have a considerable presence with many physical branches. It offers a range of bank accounts that compete well with larger banks.

With a focus on meeting a wide range of customer needs, Commerce Bank provides both personal and small business banking solutions.

Their portfolio includes conventional checking and savings accounts, as well as CDs and money market accounts. Beyond these, they offer a suite of financial services encompassing mortgages, loans, and credit cards, among others.

When it comes to their personal checking account provisions, clients can benefit from the absence of monthly maintenance fees. The only prerequisite is a minimum initial deposit of $125.

Commerce Bank also offers business checking accounts, business credit cards, term loans, and lines of credit.

5. Security Bank of Kansas City

For those residing in the Kansas City area, Security Bank stands as a top contender among the best banks in Kansas, notable for its excellent customer service and favorable checking account rates.

The bank has several tiers of checking accounts to choose from, including a basic checking account with no monthly maintenance fee, as long as you uphold a daily balance of at least $100.

The checking account carries a monthly fee of $7, a charge readily waived when a minimum daily balance of $100 is sustained. Opening a bank account is fairly accessible with a minimum initial deposit requirement of just $25. Additionally, they offer a competitive 3.29% APY on CDs.

6. Capitol Federal Savings Bank

Catering to the needs of individuals in Central and Southeast Kansas, in addition to Kansas City, Missouri, Capitol Federal Savings Bank is known for its competitive rates on personal loans.

They present customers with a checking account option that comes without any monthly fees. One limitation to note is the restriction on complimentary ATM usage. It’s confined to the bank’s own locations, which are primarily located in Kansas and Northwest Missouri.

Opening a checking account requires an initial deposit of $100, but there is no minimum balance requirement. When it comes to savings, the bank offers attractive rates on money market accounts and even higher APYs on CDs, giving clients fruitful avenues for growing their investments.

7. Bank of America

For those leaning towards the substantial network and facilities of a large national bank, Bank of America is a popular choice in Kansas, boasting numerous branches across the state.

Customers have access to a comprehensive set of online banking utilities complemented by in-person customer assistance at local establishments.

Bank of America’s mobile banking app offers mobile check deposit, account alerts, fraud protection measures, and a 24/7 customer support hotline.

You’ll also find an array of credit card choices, from rewards cards to cards designed for building or improving credit. Additionally, you’ll also get access to a broad range of investment options.

Regarding the checking account specifics, there is a $12 monthly fee that can be waived if you maintain a minimum daily balance of $1,200. A deposit of $100 is required to open an account.

CDs are available at 4.00% APY. In addition, account holders can also enjoy the ease of seamless money transfers between Bank of America accounts and accounts with other financial institutions.

8. InTrust Bank

Serving Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, InTrust Bank is considered one of the best banks in Kansas for its variety of banking services, including great mobile banking options. The bank’s checking accounts come with free access to 55,000 AllPoint ATMs nationwide.

InTrust Bank makes life easy with their Free Checking account paired with a free Visa debit card, online bill pay, mobile check deposits, and more. The checking account stands out with no monthly fees, no minimum opening deposit, and no minimum balance requirements.

On the savings front, InTrust presents enticing rate offerings with a 1.75% APY on money market accounts and a substantial 5.00% APY on CDs, paving the way for fruitful investment opportunities.

9. Emprise Bank

Emprise Bank is a family-owned bank with locations in Wichita and surrounding areas. Like many community banks, you’ll have a limited number of branches, but Emprise offers free ATM usage at over 55,000 AllPoint ATMs nationwide.

A standout feature of banking with Emprise is the cash-back checking account, which has no monthly maintenance fees and rewards them with a 2% cash back on debit card expenditures.

To qualify for this, account holders need to ensure at least one direct deposit per month, a minimum of 12 debit card transactions monthly, or subscribe to e-statements.

The checking account comes with no monthly fees, and can be opened with a minimum deposit of $100. Emprise Bank also offers solid rates on savings accounts and CDs, promising beneficial returns on savings and investments.

10. North American Savings Bank

For those in Kansas City exploring local banking options, North American Savings Bank presents a fine choice by blending the essence of community banking with modern mobile banking facilities and broad ATM accessibility across the country.

The Thrive and Prosper checking accounts from NASB come with engaging benefits such as coverage of up to $800 for cell phone damage and assistance during roadside emergencies.

The checking account comes with a $6 monthly fee, and a minimum of $100 deposit is required, although there are no demands to maintain a minimum balance. In terms of savings potential, North American Savings Bank offers a promising rates on savings accounts and CDs.

11. BMO Harris

BMO Harris is a regional bank that has branches in Kansas and other states, including Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, Missouri, Minnesota, Florida, and Wisconsin. Customers can access services at over 1,400 BMO Harris locations and use ATMs in the extensive AllPoint network all over the country.

A standout feature of BMO Harris is its strong online and mobile banking tools, providing modern banking services to its customers. Additionally, the SmartAdvantage checking account is a popular choice due to having no monthly fees.

There is no monthly fee associated with the free checking account. Opening an account is accessible with a low requirement of just a $25 initial deposit, and there are no rules for maintaining a minimum balance afterward.

In terms of interest rates, the bank offers a 2.50% APY for savings accounts and a 4.50% APY for CDs. This offers good opportunities for growing your savings.

12. Small Business Bank

If you’re a small business owner, the Small Business Bank, based in Lenexa, might be just what you’re looking for. This bank operates exclusively online and is dedicated to catering to the needs of small business owners by offering checking accounts with no monthly fees.

Furthermore, customers can use any SHAZAM ATM across the country without incurring additional charges.

When it comes to the specifics, there are no monthly fees associated with the checking accounts. Opening an account is quite affordable with a minimum deposit requirement of only $5.

For those interested in savings, the bank offers very competitive rates on savings accounts, providing a great option to grow your funds substantially.

How to Choose the Best Bank in Kansas

Choosing from the best banks in Kansas is a significant decision, impacting your day-to-day financial activities and long-term financial health. If you’re in Kansas and searching for the best bank account to meet your needs, here are some factors to consider:

  • Branch and ATM availability: Think about how often you’ll need to visit a physical branch or use an ATM. If regular access is essential, look for banks with a wide network of branches and ATMs in your area.
  • Fees and charges: Examine the fee structure for monthly maintenance, ATM usage, overdrafts, and other services. Some banks may waive fees if certain criteria, like maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit, are met.
  • Interest rates: For savings and checking accounts, consider the annual percentage yield (APY). Higher APYs allow your money to grow faster. If you’re looking at loans or credit cards, look for banks that offer competitive interest rates.
  • Online and mobile banking: With the increasing reliance on online transactions, ensure the bank offers a user-friendly online platform and mobile banking app with essential features like bill pay, mobile deposit, and account alerts.
  • Customer service: Good customer support can make a world of difference, especially during economic uncertainties. Research reviews or ask friends and family about their experiences.
  • Specialized services: Depending on your needs, you might want a bank that offers specialized services like wealth management, business banking, or mortgage expertise.
  • Security: Ensure the bank has a robust security system to protect your data and funds. Features like two-factor authentication and fraud alerts are vital in today’s digital age.
  • Community involvement: For some, a bank’s commitment to the local community matters. Local banks or credit unions often invest more in community development and may offer personalized services.
  • Future needs: Anticipate your future banking requirements. If you foresee needing a mortgage, personal loan, or business loan down the line, see what services and rates banks offer in those areas.
  • Promotions and bonuses: While they shouldn’t be the sole deciding factor, promotions, bonuses, and other incentives can provide added value, especially when starting a new banking relationship.

By weighing these factors and aligning them with your financial habits and goals, you can make an informed decision about which bank in Kansas is the best fit for you.

Choosing the Right Type of Bank in Kansas

In the rapidly changing world of banking, customers have an array of options. Selecting the best bank in Kansas depends on individual preferences, prioritizing factors like convenience, support, and technological advancements. Here are some distinguishing features of national banks, regional banks, community banks, online banks, and credit unions:

  • National banks: These large institutions operate vast branch and ATM networks, ensuring easy access to banking services almost everywhere. While they are feature-rich with sophisticated online banking solutions, they might not provide the personalized service that smaller banks can deliver.
  • Regional banks: Despite their smaller size, regional banks offer a substantial network of branches and ATMs, along with a more localized understanding of the community and professional service.
  • Community banks: Deeply rooted in local values, these banks present a personalized service and flexible lending options, catering primarily to local residents. They may have fewer branches and ATMs, so if you are a frequent traveler, considering the ATM network is crucial.
  • Online banks: These banks are at the forefront of digital innovation, usually offering higher interest rates on savings and innovative features, including automated savings tools. The downside might be the limited availability of traditional services like check writing and potentially less responsive customer service.
  • Credit unions: These are member-owned entities known for competitive rates, lower fees, and a community-focused approach. They may have fewer branches and less advanced digital tools but stand out for their commitment to community involvement and member benefits. Some of the best credit unions in Kansas include Azura Credit Union, CommunityAmerica Credit Union, White Eagle Credit Union, Golden Plains Credit Union, Credit Union of America, and Envista Credit Union.

Bottom Line

Finding the right bank is a crucial step in securing a stable financial future. We have detailed various options to help you pinpoint the best banks in Kansas, considering different needs and preferences.

As you make your choice, think about what is important to you — whether it’s excellent customer service, high interest rates, or convenient online banking tools. Your ideal bank will match your banking habits and provide a reliable platform for managing your finances. Take a thoughtful approach to selecting a bank that truly suits your lifestyle and financial objectives.

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.