14 Best Banks in Oklahoma for 2024

The Sooner State may be best known for its rich history, but the state also has plenty to offer residents. You’ll find affordable housing and beautiful landscapes, whether you’re heading to the office or enjoying a weekend in the great outdoors.

Oklahoma also has a wide variety of banking options. Many of the top national banks have branches in Oklahoma, but there are also plenty of regional and community bank options. Below is a rundown of some of the best banks in Oklahoma.

Welcome to Oklahoma

14 Best Banks in Oklahoma

Whether you prioritize high-interest rates, low fees, or top-notch customer service, the top banks in Oklahoma offer a mix of benefits that cater to diverse financial needs. From national giants with comprehensive service offerings to regional and community banks focused on localized services, this list breaks down the best banks in Oklahoma. Read on to find the perfect match for your banking needs.

1. First Citizens Bank

First Citizens Bank, originally founded in the 1800s in North Carolina, has since expanded and now has two branches in Oklahoma.

While the bank primarily operates in North and South Carolina, it’s also present in 23 states. Notably, the bank offers some of the best rates on CDs you can find among traditional banks.

For the free checking account, there are no monthly maintenance fees when you enroll in paperless statements, and you only need a $50 minimum deposit to open an account.

When it comes to interest rates, you can earn up to 4.76% on CDs. Additional benefits include home improvement loans and a mobile app that offers financial management tools.

2. SoFi

SoFi is quickly gaining popularity with its Checking & Savings account that offers some of the best interest rates around. You can earn a remarkable 4.60% APY on your savings and 0.50% APY on the money in your checking account.

There are no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements. One of the features that people love is the early direct deposit, which allows you to get your paycheck up to two days before the usual payday.

Your money is also secure with SoFi, thanks to FDIC insurance coverage up to $2 million.

New customers are welcomed with bonuses that can range from $50 to $300, and if you ever find yourself short, there’s no-fee overdraft coverage for qualifying accounts.

With access to over 55,000 ATMs, it’s easy to get cash when you need it.

3. BOK Financial

BOK Financial, or Bank of Oklahoma, offers a blend of local touch with amenities you’d typically find in larger, national banks. They have a network of branches across the state, complemented by competitive online and mobile banking platforms.

While their ATM network is confined mainly to Oklahoma, they make up for it with a significant number of ATMs—over 450, some of which are conveniently located in high-traffic areas like Tulsa and Oklahoma City.

For checking accounts, the bank doesn’t charge a monthly fee, and you only need a $50 deposit to get started. Additionally, there’s no requirement for a minimum daily balance.

When it comes to savings, although the rates on standard savings accounts are on the lower end, you can enjoy up to 1.10% APY on money market accounts and as high as 4.75% APY on CDs.

Additionally, BOK Financial isn’t just about basic banking; they also provide a range of wealth management services. If you’re in the market for personal or auto loans, their rates are quite competitive.

4. Upgrade

Upgrade stands out as a top choice among online banks in Oklahoma, particularly for those seeking innovative banking services.

The Upgrade Rewards Checking Plus account removes common banking barriers such as minimum deposits, monthly fees, overdraft fees, and transfer fees.

Customers enjoy advantages like early direct deposit, allowing access to paychecks up to two days earlier. The account also rewards regular spending with up to 2% cash back on debit card purchases.

The Upgrade Premier Savings account offers an attractive 5.21% APY on balances above $1,000.

Through its partnership with Cross River Bank, Upgrade provides FDIC insurance protection up to $250,000 for all accounts.

5. Current

Current is a popular fintech company in the U.S. that provides straightforward online banking to a large customer base. One of its distinct features is it doesn’t use ChexSystems or pull your credit report, making it a go-to option for those with poor credit or no credit history.

Utilizing the Current debit card for everyday purchases can help improve your credit score without needing to borrow money or undergo a credit check.

Current offers a free overdraft cushion up to $100 and gives you the advantage of 40,000 fee-free ATMs. Furthermore, you can receive your paycheck as much as two days ahead of the standard schedule.

For those interested in savings, Current offers a high-yield savings account with a 4.00% APY on balances up to $6,000. Partnered with dependable banks and insured by the FDIC, Current offers a secure means to handle your finances. It’s an excellent choice for those in Hawaii seeking a straightforward banking solution.

6. Chase Bank

Chase Bank is a well-known national bank that boasts more than 4,700 branches across the U.S., including a strong presence in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. New customers have an added incentive with a $200 bonus for opening a checking account with qualifying deposits.

For its Total Checking account, you can avoid the $12 monthly fee by either receiving $500 in direct deposits each month or maintaining a $1,500 balance in the account. Opening an account comes with no minimum deposit, and there’s no ongoing minimum balance requirement either.

When you need access to your money, Chase offers free ATM withdrawals at over 16,000 locations. Although their savings account rates may be less competitive, you can earn up to 3.75% on CDs.

What sets Chase apart are the additional perks, like various credit cards that earn you rewards. Overall, Chase Bank is one of the best banks in Oklahoma for those who prefer the reach and amenities of a national bank but also value localized services.

7. City National Bank and Trust

City National Bank and Trust, based in Lawton, Oklahoma, has numerous branches throughout the state. A free checking account is available if you can maintain a $75 balance and opt for e-statements.

A drawback is the $6 monthly fee for online bill pay. Despite this, the bank’s competitive CD rates and expansive ATM network make it an attractive option.

The checking account also has a $3.95 monthly maintenance fee, but this can be waived under certain conditions. A minimum deposit requirement of $50 is needed to open the account, and there are no ongoing minimum balance requirements as long as you maintain $75 to avoid the monthly fee.

You can enjoy free ATM withdrawals at any VISA and Cirrus ATM locations. Interest rates can go up to 4.70% on CDs. Additionally, City National Bank has a range of loan options for home, auto, and personal needs, as well as diverse business account options.

8. BancFirst

BancFirst is an Oklahoma-based bank with locations across the state. The bank offers a wide range of banking services, including checking and savings accounts, loans and mortgages, investments and retirement planning.

The free checking account requires a $100 minimum opening deposit, but no ongoing balance requirements to worry about. As for ATMs, you have the luxury of no-fee withdrawals at any BancFirst or Oklahoma Walgreens locations.

While there are no monthly maintenance fees, BancFirst also features a tiered-interest savings account, adding an extra layer of financial benefit for account holders.

From reward-earning debit cards to a diverse range of business loan options, BancFirst aims to meet various financial needs, making it a solid choice for those residing in Oklahoma.

9. F&M Bank

F&M Bank is a family-owned local bank with seven branches scattered around Oklahoma City. Particularly appealing is their interest checking account, offering a generous 4.07% APY if you maintain a higher balance.

Although ATM and branch access is localized to Oklahoma City, F&M offers the unique benefit of refunding up to $20 in out-of-network ATM fees every month.

To open a checking account, a minimum deposit of $50 is required, but there’s the relief of no ongoing minimum balance requirements. F&M Bank also offers up to 3.04% APY on savings accounts.

The Oklahoma bank further enhances its customer experience with various business solutions and the added perk of daily credit score access through its app. Overall, F&M Bank is a compelling option for Oklahoma City residents seeking both robust offerings and localized service.

10. MidFirst Bank

For those based in Norman looking for a local bank, MidFirst Bank is worth considering, with its branches conveniently located throughout the area.

Their Live Free Checking Account is particularly enticing, which has a feature called Early Pay that allows you to get paid early.

Opening a checking account requires a $100 deposit, but no minimum balance is required. In terms of interest, you can earn up to 4.00% APY on savings accounts and up to an impressive 5.00% APY on CDs.

MidFirst Bank also offers commercial and small business loans, investment and retirement accounts, home and auto loans, and much more.

11. Arvest Bank

Arvest Bank strikes a balance between the personalized service of a community bank and the broader reach of a regional bank. Operating across multiple states, including Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, Arvest Bank has local leadership teams in each community, ensuring a tailored banking experience.

Opening a checking account with Arvest requires a modest $50 opening deposit and comes with no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements.

While their savings account rates may not be the most competitive, they offer a standout feature in their CDs, which can earn you up to a stellar 5.05% APY.

Besides the compelling rates, Arvest also offers a $50 VISA reward card for each customer you refer, as well as complimentary notary services with some checking accounts.

12. Gateway First Bank

Gateway First Bank started in Oklahoma as a direct mortgage lender and has significantly broadened its services over the years.

The bank provides a broad reach in Oklahoma through its branches and ATMs, and extends this access nationwide via a partnership with the Allpoint network, covering over 40,000 locations.

Opening an account is straightforward, with a $25 minimum deposit. Additionally, Gateway First Bank offers a truly competitive edge by not charging overdraft fees. You can earn 0.50% interest on checking accounts, 2.50% on savings accounts, and as much as 5.25% APY on CDs.

Gateway First Bank also provides additional services that add value, including options for small business banking and wealth management.

13. First National Bank of Oklahoma

First National Bank of Oklahoma provides a community bank experience with a hometown feel. With locations in Oklahoma City, Ponca City, Tonkawa, and Tulsa, it’s a convenient option for residents in those areas.

While the bank doesn’t disclose all its fees and rates online, it doesn’t charge a monthly service fee for its checking accounts.

To open an account, an initial deposit is required, although the specific amount isn’t publicly stated. There’s also no daily minimum balance requirement, which makes it a flexible choice for those who don’t want to keep a large sum in their bank account.

In addition to the basics, First National Bank of Oklahoma offers a range of services that extend beyond checking and savings. The bank has competitive rates for home and auto loans and provides robust options for business banking.

14. Oklahoma Fidelity Bank

Oklahoma Fidelity Bank caters to residents in Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Moore, providing a local banking experience with the perks of a more expansive service area.

With no monthly fees, this Oklahoma bank offers a straightforward approach to personal banking, requiring just a $25 minimum deposit for checking accounts.

When it comes to ATMs, the bank goes above and beyond by offering free transactions at Oklahoma Fidelity locations, as well as access to more than 90,000 fee-free Allpoint and MoneyPass machines nationwide.

The interest rates are worth noting, with CDs offering up to 1.25% APY and money market accounts offering up to an impressive 4.25% APY.

Beyond basic banking services, Oklahoma Fidelity Bank encourages spending by providing a $0.05 cash back incentive on debit transactions, as long as you make at least 10 purchases each month.

How to Choose the Best Bank in Oklahoma

Choosing a financial institution is a crucial decision that impacts your day-to-day financial management and long-term financial health. Below are some key points to consider when searching for the best banks in Oklahoma:

  • Location and accessibility: Consider how close the bank’s branches and ATMs are to your home or workplace. Accessibility matters, especially if you prefer in-person banking.
  • Online and mobile banking services: Assess the quality of the bank’s online and mobile banking features. The best bank in Oklahoma will offer a seamless online experience, complete with a robust mobile app for convenient banking on the go.
  • Account types and features: Look at what types of accounts are available (checking, savings, CDs, etc.) and what features come with them, such as high-interest rates or no fees.
  • Fees: Understand the cost structure. Some banks charge monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, or have minimum balance requirements. Choose a bank that aligns with your financial habits.
  • Interest rates: Compare the rates offered on savings accounts, CDs, and other investment products. Higher interest rates can significantly boost your savings over time.
  • Insurance: Ensure that the bank you choose is covered by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or that your credit union is NCUA-insured. These agencies typically protect your deposits up to $250,000, giving you peace of mind.
  • Customer service: Evaluate the level of customer service. The best banks in Oklahoma will offer multiple channels for support, including 24/7 phone service, online chat, and in-branch assistance.
  • Additional services: Consider other services like wealth management, home and auto loans, or business accounts. Extra services can be a tie-breaker if you’re stuck between two equally good options.
  • Promotions and bonuses: Many banks offer sign-up bonuses or special rates for new customers. While this shouldn’t be your only criteria, it can be a nice perk.
  • Community involvement: If supporting local communities is important to you, you might want to opt for a financial institution that is actively involved in Oklahoma’s local affairs.

By taking these factors into account, you can more effectively identify the best bank in Oklahoma that meets your individual needs and financial goals.

Types of Banks in Oklahoma

Oklahoma offers a diverse range of banking options to fit the various needs and preferences of its residents. Here’s a quick look at the types of banks you can find in the state:

  • National banks: These are large banks with branches across the country. They often offer a full suite of financial services, including checking and savings accounts, loans, and investment options. Example: Chase Bank.
  • Regional banks: These are banks that operate in specific regions of the country. They often offer a balance between the resources of a national bank and the personal service of a community bank. Examples: Arvest Bank and BOK Financial (Bank of Oklahoma).
  • Community banks: These are smaller, local banks focused on serving the financial needs of a specific community. They often excel in customer service and community involvement. Examples: F&M Bank, First National Bank of Oklahoma, and MidFirst Bank.
  • Online banks: Online-only banks operate exclusively online and typically offer higher interest rates on savings accounts and lower fees than brick and mortar banks, thanks to reduced operational costs. Examples: SoFi, Upgrade, and Current.
  • Credit unions: These are not-for-profit organizations that offer banking services. Credit unions typically offer lower fees and higher interest rates on savings accounts, as they are member-owned. Examples: Communication Federal Credit Union, Tinker Federal Credit Union, TTCU Federal Credit Union, and Weokie Federal Credit Union.

Bottom Line

Choosing the right bank is a significant financial decision that can impact your daily life and long-term financial goals. From national powerhouses to local gems, Oklahoma offers a variety of financial institutions to suit every need.

Whether you’re looking for the expansive network and sophisticated tech of a national bank or the personalized touch of a community bank, the best banks in Oklahoma have something for everyone. Consider your individual needs, from fees and interest rates to additional perks and customer service, to find the best bank in Oklahoma that fits your financial landscape. Happy banking!

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.