Montana is a beautiful place to live, with its waterways and mountainous terrain. If you live and work in the state, you likely need a great place to park your money. The best banks in Montana give you everything you need to pay your bills and manage your money, while also keeping fees to a minimum.
The banking industry in Montana is thriving, with a wide range of brick and mortar banks that include local, national, and regional banks. Online banking can be a great option, as well, offering reduced fees and savings rates that are above the national average.
11 Best Banks in Montana
This list offers a combination of different bank accounts to help you find the right combination of features to fit your needs.
1. Current
Current is an all-digital bank offering Montanans a modern, fee-free way to manage their finances.
2. First Interstate Bank
First Interstate Bank is a strong choice for Montana residents, with 41 branches across the state.
3. SoFi
SoFi Checking & Savings is a solid online option for Montana residents who want high interest rates and a fee-free account.
4. Stockman Bank of Montana
Stockman Bank of Montana is a local bank. It stands as the largest family-owned bank in Montana, with several branches across the state.
5. Opportunity Bank of Montana
Opportunity Bank of Montana, located in Helena, is a community bank that extends its services nationwide through an expansive ATM network. They offer two free checking accounts to cater to different needs.
6. Glacier Bank
Glacier Bank is a regional bank that has over 220 branches in Montana, Idaho, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, Colorado, Arizona, and Nevada.
7. Chase
Chase Bank has a solid presence in Montana, with branches in cities like Helena and Billings. It also stands as a national powerhouse with over 4,800 branches across 48 states and D.C.
8. Farmers State Bank
Farmers State Bank is a community bank with several locations in Montana. You can start an account with a modest opening deposit of $25, and enjoy no monthly fees and no ongoing minimum balance requirements.
9. Trailwest Bank
Trailwest Bank, locally owned and operating in Ravalli, Missoula, Mineral, and Flathead counties, offers residents checking and savings options that come with a welcoming community touch.
10. Independence Bank
Independence Bank stands out as a favored option among local Montana banks, featuring multiple physical branches throughout the state. It prioritizes in-person customer service, something characteristic of brick-and-mortar banks.
11. Valley Bank of Kalispell
Valley Bank of Kalispell has been a reliable part of the community for over a century, operating with a main office in downtown Kalispell and a loan office in Eureka.
How to Choose the Best Bank in Montana
Picking the right bank in Montana can make a real difference in your day-to-day finances. To help you find the best fit, consider these key factors before opening an account:
Accessibility
Montana covers a lot of ground, so having a branch or ATM nearby can matter, especially if you prefer handling some transactions in person. Look at each bank’s branch locations and ATM network to see what fits your needs best.
Fee Structure
Every bank handles fees differently. Some charge monthly maintenance fees, out-of-network ATM fees, or overdraft fees, while others keep costs to a minimum. Compare fee schedules carefully and go for a bank that helps you keep more of your money.
Interest Rates
Whether you’re looking for the best savings accounts, the best checking accounts, or CDs, interest rates can be a deal-breaker. Many of the best banks in Montana feature competitive interest rates, so you can maximize your savings. Always compare rates on various financial products before making your choice.
Safety and Security
Your money’s safety should always come first. Choose a bank that’s insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), so your deposits are protected up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank.
Additional Perks
Some banks offer rewards, sign-up bonuses, or other extras to attract new customers. Look for perks that genuinely benefit you—like cashback offers, free checks, or special discounts.
Online and Mobile Banking
Reliable digital banking tools are non-negotiable today. Make sure your bank offers a secure website and a mobile app with features like mobile check deposit, bill pay, and real-time alerts.
Customer Service
Helpful customer service can make banking much easier. Check online reviews and ask people you trust about their experiences. A responsive team can save you time and frustration down the line.
Types of Banks to Consider in Montana
When choosing a bank in Montana, it helps to know what types of institutions are available and how they differ.
National Banks
National banks operate across the U.S. and offer a full range of services, from checking and savings to loans and investments. With large branch and ATM networks, they’re ideal for people who travel or need multi-state access. U.S. Bank, Wells Fargo, and Chase are some of the national banks with a presence in Montana.
Regional Banks
Regional banks serve specific areas and offer many of the same services as national banks, often with more local insight. Glacier Bank and Stockman Bank of Montana are two examples that provide strong service across the state.
Community Banks
These smaller banks focus on local service and personalized support. Valley Bank of Kalispell and Farmers State Bank are known for serving the unique needs of Montana residents and businesses.
Online Banks
Online-only banks like SoFi and Ally offer high-yield savings, no-fee checking, and user-friendly apps. With no physical branches, they often have lower fees and better interest rates.
Credit Unions
Credit unions are member-owned and typically offer lower fees, competitive loan rates, and a community-driven approach. Montana has several credit unions that serve specific cities, professions, or regions.
Final Thoughts
Montana has banking options for every need, whether you want the familiarity of a local branch, the flexibility of online banking, or the low fees of a credit union. From national names to community banks, each option brings something different to the table.
Before opening an account, think about what matters most—whether it’s interest rates, customer service, or easy ATM access. A little comparison now can help you find the right fit and avoid fees or headaches later on.
