12 Best Banks in Michigan for 2024

Banking

Whether you’re new to the state or a longtime resident, Michigan has plenty to offer. There’s also a wide range of financial institutions, from national banks with multiple branches to the small, independent bank that focuses on building community.

If you’re in the market for a new bank account, the options can be overwhelming. Here are some of the best banks in Michigan to help you find a bank that meets all your banking needs.

Welcome to Michigan

12 Best Banks in Michigan

Ready to start comparing banks? The below list includes some of the best banks in Michigan that offer checking accounts, savings accounts, and lending products.

1. SoFi

SoFi shines as a top online bank, thanks to its robust Checking & Savings accounts. The online bank offers up to 4.30% APY on savings and 0.50% APY on checking. There are no monthly fees or minimum deposit requirements to worry about.

When customers sign up for direct deposit, they can receive their paychecks up to two days in advance.

Safety is a priority at SoFi, with FDIC insurance covering amounts up to $2 million. They also provide convenient overdraft protection, covering up to $50 without fees, for those with qualifying direct deposits.

Switching to SoFi comes with a welcome bonus ranging from $50 to $300, depending on your direct deposit amount. Plus, SoFi offers access to over 55,000 ATMs through the Allpoint® network.

2. Chase

Chase Bank is a prominent national bank with branches in over 100 Michigan cities and more than 16,000 ATMs across the country. This makes it a convenient choice for Michigan residents who are often on the go.

When it comes to checking accounts, Chase offers several options. The Chase Total Checking is particularly popular among Michigan customers, as it comes with a $300 bonus for opening a new account.

The account requires no minimum deposit, and it comes with a $12 monthly service fee. However, this fee can be easily waived by maintaining a $1,500 balance, having monthly direct deposits totaling $500, or keeping at least $5,000 in combined balances when connected to a Chase savings account.

Chase Bank offers competitive rates on CDs, but its other savings accounts have much lower rates.

3. Upgrade

Upgrade ranks as a top choice among online banks in Michigan, particularly attractive to those interested in innovative banking solutions.

As a fintech company, Upgrade diverges from traditional banking by collaborating with Cross River Bank, which guarantees that all accounts are covered by FDIC insurance up to $250,000.

The Upgrade Rewards Checking Plus account does away with the common hurdles of minimum deposits, monthly fees, ATM fees, and transfer fees.

Customers enjoy benefits such as early direct deposit, allowing them to receive their paychecks up to two days earlier. Moreover, the account rewards regular spending with up to 2% cash back on debit card purchases.

For those who occasionally use out-of-network ATMs, Upgrade provides a solution by reimbursing up to five ATM fees each month, subject to certain conditions.

4. Fifth Third Bank

Regional banks are often a great compromise between a large national bank and a small local bank. Fifth Third Bank is a regional bank with branches in Michigan, Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia.

For checking accounts, Fifth Third Bank requires no minimum deposit and charges no monthly service fees. Customers also enjoy fee-free access to over 2,100 Fifth Third Bank ATMs as well as over 40,000 partner locations nationwide, providing plenty of options to withdraw money.

In the savings department, the bank offers attractive rates on CDs. Fifth Third Bank also provides an extra business day to resolve overdrafts, and its Early Pay feature allows customers to access direct deposit funds a couple of days earlier than usual.

5. Consumers Credit Union

For those residing, employed, or pursuing education in the lower peninsula, Consumers Credit Union (CCU) offers a local solution with substantial benefits. The credit union operates 26 branches and provides access to 30,000 shared Co-Op ATMs, ensuring ease of access to your finances.

When it comes to checking accounts, CCU adheres to a simple yet effective banking policy: no monthly maintenance fees and no obligatory minimum deposit to open an account.

As for interest rates, clients have the opportunity to earn up high yields on CDs. Moreover, CCU debit cardholders can enjoy exclusive discounts on purchases, adding to the advantages of banking with Consumers Credit Union.

Additionally, the credit union facilitates home and auto loans with attractive rates, assisting in making large purchases affordable.

6. Citizens Bank

With its headquarters in Providence, Rhode Island, Citizens Bank has expanded its reach to include Michigan and several other states, from Florida to New Hampshire and even Washington, DC.

The bank offers a checking account that comes with a $9.99 monthly fee, but there’s a workaround—you can have the fee waived with at least one deposit each month.

If you’re thinking of saving, Citizens Bank offers both CDs and money market accounts. What sets this bank apart are some of its additional perks: Citizens Paid Early lets you get your hands on direct deposits sooner than usual, and Citizens Peace of Mind is designed to help you avoid overdraft fees.

Whether it’s everyday banking or long-term saving, Citizens Bank offers versatile options to meet a wide range of customer needs.

7. Huntington National Bank

With its footprint extending across Michigan and multiple other states like Ohio and Illinois, Huntington National Bank is a regional bank that doesn’t skimp on the perks. You’ll enjoy complimentary use of the bank’s 1,700 ATMs spread across various states.

Huntington Bank offers a unique feature for customers with recurring direct deposits—Standby Cash, a line of credit with no interest if repaid within three months. After that period, a low interest rate applies.

The Asterisk-Free Checking account has no monthly fees, no initial deposit requirement, and no minimum balance. For savings, Huntington provides appealing rates on both CDs and money market accounts.

Additionally, the Early Pay feature allows customers to access their paycheck a few days early with direct deposit, adding further convenience to their banking services.

8. Ally Bank

Ally Bank takes the cake when it comes to the benefits of online banking: low fees, impressive interest rates, and sophisticated money management tools. Even though you won’t find a physical branch, you’re not sacrificing service or features.

For checking accounts, Ally offers no monthly fees or overdraft fees and has no minimum balance requirements or a minimum deposit.

In terms of rates, Ally stands out by providing attractive rates on both checking accounts and CDs, making it a solid choice for savers.

When it comes to cash withdrawals, the bank partners with Allpoint, providing you with over 53,000 ATM outlets nationwide for cash withdrawals. If you encounter ATM fees from ATMs not affiliated with Ally, they’ll reimburse you up to $10 every statement cycle.

But Ally isn’t just about the basics; it also offers extras like Robo Portfolios for those interested in automated investing and Spending Buckets to help you budget effectively.

9. Flagstar Bank

Flagstar Bank is a New York-based bank with over 100 bank branches in Michigan. You can find them in cities like Grand Rapids, Holland, Lansing, Jackson, Ann Arbor, Troy, Warren, Detroit, and many more.

The bank offers various perks that go beyond the standard offerings. While the bank requires a $50 minimum opening deposit to open a checking account, there’s no minimum balance requirements, and you won’t be charged a monthly maintenance fee.

Where Flagstar really shines is in its loan policies. If you make your home or personal loan payments from your checking account, you’ll benefit from a 0.25% discount on interest rates.

The bank provides a high-yield savings account. However, it’s worth noting that a $35 monthly service fee applies for balances under $50,000.

When you’re on the move, you can use Flagstar’s own ATMs or choose from over 56,000 Presto! and Allpoint locations without incurring fees. With checking and savings accounts, credit cards, business checking accounts, and more, Flagstar has something for everyone.

10. Old National Bank

With roots in Chicago, Illinois, and Evansville, Indiana, Old National Bank expands its reach to multiple states, including Michigan.

The bank currently offers a tempting $300 bonus when you open a new checking account, provided you meet certain conditions. You must receive at least two direct deposits totaling a minimum of $3,000 and enroll in their online or mobile banking services.

The bank’s free checking option comes with a few stipulations. To avoid the $6.95 monthly fee, you’ll need to maintain a minimum balance of $750 or have a combined balance of $1,500 across all Old National accounts.

Alternatively, at least $500 in direct deposit activity each month will also get the fee waived. Active-duty military members, however, can enjoy the free checking account without meeting these requirements. There’s also a minimum opening deposit of $50.

Old National Bank offers fee-free access to its ATMs and over 53,000 Allpoint terminals nationwide. The bank also provides great interest rates on CDs and money market accounts, making it a great option for those looking to grow their savings.

11. Diversified Members Credit Union

Expanding its reach over the years to serve 25,000 members, Diversified Members Credit Union has physical branches in Michigan locations such as Novi, Clawson, and Detroit.

DMCU’s checking accounts do come with a $10 monthly maintenance fee, but this can be avoided. Simply enroll in e-statements and online banking, while also ensuring at least 15 debit card transactions post each statement period.

With a minimum opening deposit of just $25 and no ongoing balance requirements, it offers financial flexibility.

DMCU also offers fee-free withdrawals at their own ATMs as well as 30,000 shared ATM locations across the country. While it offers interest on checking accounts, a youth savings account, Christmas and Vacation Club savings accounts, and a money market account, the interest rates are very modest.

Besides catering to personal banking needs, DMCU also provides a variety of business checking options. If you’re in the market for a loan, they offer competitive rates for auto and recreational vehicle loans, making them a versatile choice for both personal and business needs.

12. Comerica Bank

Founded in Detroit in 1849 and now headquartered in Dallas, Comerica maintains branches in Michigan, and in other states in states like Arizona, California, Florida, and Texas.

Its basic checking package comes with a monthly fee of $13, but there are several ways to have this fee waived. You can either maintain a $1,000 balance or have a single electronic deposit of at least $250 each month. Fee waivers are also available for full-time students up to age 26 and for military members.

A modest $50 is all that’s needed to open a new checking account, and there are no ongoing balance requirements if the service fee is waived. Comerica Bank also offers a savings account, money market accounts, and credit cards.

Additional benefits include discounts on home equity lines of credit, making Comerica a versatile option for those who need both personal banking services and additional financial products.

How to Choose the Best Bank in Michigan

If you’re looking for a new checking or savings account, consider what’s most important to you. Here are some features to consider when you’re comparing the best banks in Michigan.

Mobile Banking Features

Almost every bank provides mobile banking as a core feature nowadays. The best banks let you manage almost everything through either the mobile banking app or an online web portal. Look for features that will eliminate your reliance on bank branches and ATMs, including mobile check deposit and the ability to easily transfer money from your checking account to your online savings account.

That doesn’t mean you can’t choose a bank or credit union with branches in Michigan, though. You may like the perks of a traditional bank account, including the ability to visit a local branch for in-person customer service. But, even if you live near a bank branch, online and mobile banking still offers the convenience of managing your account when you can’t get to a bank.

Minimum Deposit and Minimum Balance Requirements

When searching for the best banks in Michigan, you’ll notice that some come with requirements. Banks and credit unions may charge monthly service fees to access your account, and it can be tempting to go with a bank that advertises free checking. However, while doing that, be mindful of the requirements of that account.

If you’re on a budget, the best checking accounts have very few fees, while also refraining from requiring a minimum daily balance. That means you don’t have to stress about keeping a certain amount in your account. When looking at banks or credit unions, also look for the requirements to open the account. Some banks require a minimum deposit to get started.

Interest Rates

Saving money on fees isn’t the only priority when looking for a bank account. Your balance should earn interest, and the higher the annual percentage yield, the better.

It’s not unusual for a savings account and CD to earn interest, but there are also high-yield checking account options. An interest checking account will probably be a better fit for you if you routinely hold a high balance in your checking account. You can also find high savings account rates with online banks that might offset any ATM fees you may incur from time to time.

Michigan Bank Promotions

Whether you’re searching for a community bank or holding out for a great deal with a national bank, always look into any bank promotions currently going on. Typically, bank promos require that you maintain the account for at least a couple of months. You may also have to complete some activities, such as having a certain amount direct deposited or maintaining a minimum balance.

In some cases, promotions will be for specific product types, such as a business checking account. If you’re in the market for a new business bank account, you may get a better deal by going with a different bank than you use for your personal checking account.

ATM Access

Online banks, local banks, and credit unions will often increase their interest rates on savings accounts to compete with bigger financial institutions, but there’s a downside. You might not get the cash access you’d find with a national bank. You may find a full selection of ATMs near your house, but when you travel, you’ll be charged an out-of-network fee to withdraw money from your bank accounts.

However, in recent years, online banking and credit unions have made this easier. They may be a part of a national co-op network that expands access to both branches and ATMs nationwide.

Online-only banks typically partner with national ATM networks like AllPoint and MoneyPass to offer account holders cash. If you ever need to deposit cash, your online bank might let you take your debit card to one of many partner locations to add the funds to your mobile banking app. However, this may come with a fee.

In some cases, a small or online bank will offer ATM fee reimbursements. These may be limited to a small dollar amount per statement period. This could include a few banks who don’t offer fee-free ATM withdrawals among your options.

Our Methodology

Finding the right bank can be tough, so we took personal preferences into account. Here are some of the factors we considered when determining the best banks and credit unions in Michigan:

  • Variety of financial products: Checking and savings are typically the first products you look for in a bank, but there are other things to consider. We also focused on other products such as credit cards, auto loans, personal loans, mortgages, and investment products.
  • Local vs. online: Preferences can vary, so we chose a variety of account types, including small banks, credit unions, national banks with branches in Michigan, and online-only banks.
  • Interest rates: We noted the interest rates offered by each bank. If you’re hoping to save money, it’s important to get the best rates possible. We tried to include banks that offer an APY that’s above the national average.
  • Bank requirements: There are often minimums associated with an account, especially if you won’t pay monthly fees. We took a look at those requirements and disclosed them to make it easier for you to quickly identify what you’ll need. Those include the amount you’ll need to deposit to open the account and the minimum balance you’ll need to retain each day.
  • Other fees: You won’t just face service fees with a new account. If your checking goes into the negative, you’ll likely have to pay an overdraft fee. Some banks have a minimal out-of-network ATM transaction fee that’s in addition to any fees charged by the third-party bank. Check a bank’s fee schedule before signing on to make sure you know exactly what fees you’ll face.

Bottom Line

When it comes to finding the best banks in Michigan, the state offers a diverse landscape of banking options to cater to the diverse financial needs of its residents. From traditional brick-and-mortar institutions to innovative online banks, the choices are plentiful.

We’ve explored some of the top contenders in Michigan, each with its own set of advantages and features. Whether you value a high-yield savings account, no-fee checking, convenient ATM access, or cutting-edge mobile banking apps, these banks offer a range of options to suit your needs.

Ultimately, the “best banks in Michigan” are those that align most closely with your individual preferences and priorities. Consider what matters most to you in a banking partner, whether it’s competitive interest rates, low fees, exceptional customer service, or innovative digital tools.

No matter which bank you choose, it’s essential to conduct your research, compare the options, and select the one that best fits your financial goals and lifestyle. With the right bank by your side, you can confidently manage your finances and work towards a brighter financial future in the great state of Michigan.

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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.