Best Banks in Pennsylvania

Ready to find the perfect bank for you in Pennsylvania? Keep reading this guide to discover the best one that suits your needs.

Did you know that the first-ever bank in the United States was established in Pennsylvania?^[1]

It's no surprise that hundreds of banks are operating in the state today. While Pennsylvanian residents have plenty of banks to choose from, picking the right one can be tough.

So, keep reading to find out about some of the best banks in PA.

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Bank of America Advantage Banking - $300 Bonus Offer

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Expires 1/31/2025

• The $300 bonus offer is an online only offer and must be opened through the Bank of America promotional page.
• The offer is for new checking customers only.
• Offer expires 01/31/2025.
• To qualify, open a new eligible Bank of America Advantage Banking account through the promotional page and set up and receive Qualifying Direct Deposits* totaling $2,000 or more into that new eligible account within 90 days of account opening. Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking® for Family Banking accounts are not eligible for this offer.
• Once all requirements are met, Bank of America will attempt to pay bonus within 60 days.
• Additional terms and conditions apply. See offer page for more details.
• *A Qualifying Direct Deposit is a direct deposit of regular monthly income – such as your salary, pension or Social Security benefits, which are made by your employer or other payer – using account and routing numbers that you provide to them.
• Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC.

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Chase Total Checking® - $300 Bonus

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Expires 1/22/2025

• New Chase checking customers enjoy a $300 bonus when you open a Chase Total Checking^® account with qualifying activities
• With over 4,700 branches, Chase has the largest branch network in the U.S. plus access to more than 15,000 ATMs.
• Chase Mobile^® app - Manage your accounts, deposit checks, transfer money and more -- all from your device.
• JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC
• Open your account online now
• Available online nationwide except in Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. For branch locations, visit locator.chase.com.
• Chase Overdraft Assist℠ - no overdraft fees if you're overdrawn by $50 or less at the end of the business day or if you're overdrawn by more than $50 and bring your account balance to overdrawn by $50 or less at the end of the next business day*

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Truist Bank: Business Checking Account - $400 Bonus

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Expires 3/31/2025

• Earn $400 when you open a new small business checking account and complete qualifying activities.
• Choose between:
  • Truist Simple Business Checking—Perfect if you're just starting out or have low transaction volume.
  • Truist Dynamic Business Checking—With more perks as your balances grow—and a true, local partnership.
• New business checking clients only
• From October 1st, 2024 – March 31st 2025

Terms and Conditions

Offer Information: Open a new Truist Simple Business Checking or Dynamic Business Checking account online, phone, or in a branch from 10/1/2024 through 3/31/2025 and earn $400 by making Qualifying Deposits* of $2,000 or more into your new account within 30 days of account opening.

Enrollment in the promotion is required at the time of account opening using promo code SB24Q4BIZAFL to be eligible for a promotion reward. Refer to the Account Opening & Promotion Enrollment sections below for instructions.

*Qualifying Deposits for new business checking accounts exclude debit card credit transactions and NSF fee refunds. Deposits can be made on a one-time basis or cumulatively over the 30 days.

Offer Eligibility: You must be a new Truist business checking client. To be considered a new business checking client, the business cannot have an existing Truist business checking account or have closed a Truist business checking account within 180 days of the promotion start date (i.e., on or after 4/4/2024), with the same Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), including but not limited to an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The business account holder must be 18 years or older at time of account opening. The account holder cannot be a non-resident alien. The business account holder must have a valid U.S. TIN. The business's physical address must be located in one of the following states: AL, AR, FL, GA, IN, KY, MD, MS, NC, NJ, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV or DC.

Reward Processing: The reward will be deposited to the new business checking account within 4 weeks after the qualification requirements have been met and verified. The new business checking account must be open and in good standing with a balance of at least $0.01 at the time of Truist verification and until the reward is deposited to receive the reward. Only one newly opened business checking account per client is eligible to participate in this offer. Truist may report the value of any reward received to the IRS, as required by law. Any applicable taxes are the responsibility of the recipient.

Reward Forfeiture: Reward forfeiture will occur if: (1) the business checking account is changed to an account type not included in this offer, (2) the business checking account is closed prior to the reward being deposited, or (3) the new business checking account has a $0.00 or negative available balance at the time of qualification validation.

Other Terms: Minimum opening deposit is $100. A monthly maintenance fee is applicable for Truist Dynamic Business accounts whose combined average relationship ledger balance is less than $5,000; the monthly maintenance fee is waived for accounts with a combined average relationship ledger balance of $5,000 or more. See Truist's Business Deposit Accounts Fee Schedule for additional information.

The offer is non-transferable and may not be combined with any other offers. This offer is subject to change and may be discontinued at any time. Truist reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to disqualify any account if Truist suspects accounts are being opened for the purpose of exploiting this promotional offer. All promotional payouts will be processed no later than 9/30/2025, at which point this promotion and any related disbursements will be considered final, and no further disbursements will be made.

Online Account Opening & Promotion Enrollment Instructions: During the online application process, ensure the promo code SB24Q4BIZAFL is entered into the Promo Code field and accept the offer when presented. Accounts opened online without the Promo Code will not be eligible to participate in the offer.

Branch Account Opening & Promotion Enrollment Instructions: Visit your local Truist branch or call a Small Business representative and ask to open an eligible account and enroll you in the Truist Small Business Checking Affiliate Q4 2024 & Q1 2025 Offer using promo code SB24Q4BIZAFL. Once enrolled in the promotion, clients may receive promotional updates via the email address provided or by calling 800-709-8700.

Truist Bank, Member FDIC. ©2024, Truist Financial Corporation. Truist, Truist Purple and the Truist Logo are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation

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KeyBank: Key Smart Checking® - $300 Bonus

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Expires 12/13/2024

Earn $300 after qualified activities until 12.13.24 with the no-monthly-maintenance-fee Key Smart Checking®.

• Open a Key Smart Checking® account online by December 13, 2024.
• Make the minimum opening deposit of $10, plus one eligible direct deposit of at least $1,000 within the first 60 days of account opening.
• Your $300 cash bonus will be deposited into your account within 60 days of meeting requirements. Account must not be closed at the time of gift payment.

Best Banks in Pennsylvania

With so many banks and credit unions to choose from in Pennsylvania, deciding where to open an account can be challenging.

Here are some of the top options available to you in the state:

PNC Bank: Largest Branch Network

When it comes to physical presence in Pennsylvania, PNC Bank is your best bet. It is headquartered in the state with over 260 branches. ^[2]

PNC Bank offers a variety of financial services for all including individuals, small businesses, and corporations. This includes checking and savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and more.

But even if you can't visit a local branch any time soon, it's no problem. PNC Bank also provides online banking and financial tools to assist you in managing your finances from anywhere.

Who Is It Best For
PNC Bank is a solid choice if you want to manage your finances in one place. Their PNC Virtual Wallet merges online checking and savings accounts, making it easy to earn interest while keeping track of your money on a single platform.

Pros + Cons

Citizens Bank: Best All-Rounder Bank

Citizens Bank is one of the largest banks in the US with a vast presence on the East Coast. They have over 230 branches just in Pennsylvania and 3,200+ ATMs across 14 states.^[3]

Citizens Bank provides an array of banking services for individuals and businesses such as checking and savings accounts, credit cards, and loans. Their easy-to-use online and mobile banking platforms let customers manage their accounts and access funds anytime.

Who Is It Best For
Citizens Bank is best for those who want access to several savings options with good features. They have various savings accounts with decent interest rates. Plus some offer no monthly fees and can include overdraft protection.

Pros + Cons

Dollar Bank: Best Long-Term Savings

Dollar Bank is a community bank in Pittsburgh serving parts of Ohio, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.^[4] If you live in Pennsylvania, it's a great choice with over 40 branches in the state and access to a network of more than 55,000 fee-free ATMs worldwide.

Additionally, Dollar Bank offers an extensive range of financial products tailored for both individuals and businesses, such as checking and savings accounts, various loan products, insurance, and treasury management services.

Who Is It Best For
Dollar Bank is an excellent option for people committed to long-term saving. They provide a range of CD options with varying rates and balance requirements, so you're guaranteed to find one that fits your financial situation.

Pros + Cons

Wells Fargo: Best Second-Chance Banking

Wells Fargo is a prominent bank in the US, with more than 100 branches in Pennsylvania alone. They also offer free access to approximately 11,000 ATMs across the country, ensuring your funds are easily accessible wherever you go.

As a full-service bank, they offer virtually most personal and business banking services you might need, including:

• Checking and savings accounts
  
• Debit and credit cards
  
• Different types of loans
  
• Student and retirement accounts
  
• Wealth management services

Who Is It Best For
Wells Fargo is a great choice for folks who could use some extra support in managing their finances, like teens or those with a negative banking history.

They offer the Clear Access Banking account, specifically designed as a second-chance option. It comes with a $5 monthly service fee and requires a minimum opening deposit of $25.^[5]

Pros + Cons

First National Bank: Best Free Checking Account

First National Bank offers a wide range of banking and wealth management services. They serve communities in Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, DC.

It's a top pick because, not only is it headquartered in the state, but it also has over 180 branches across Pennsylvania alone.^[6]

Who Is It Best For
First National Bank's Freestyle Checking is great for a hassle-free, no-cost account. Its Freestyle Checking account has no minimum balance, no monthly fees, unlimited check-writing, and free access to more than 1,600 FNB ATMs.^[7]

Pros + Cons

Ally Bank: Best Online Bank

Ally Bank is an online-only bank. But, they have a wide range of products, including checking, savings, credit cards, and loans. They're popular for offering competitive rates, making them a good choice to grow your savings.

They don't have any physical branches in Pennsylvania or anywhere else in the US. However, customers have access to 43,000+ no-fee Allpoint ATMs and a robust online banking platform.

Who Is It Best For
Ally Bank is an excellent choice for those who are interested in digital banking. Their online and mobile banking platform is top-notch, with user-friendly features and effective money management tools.

Moreover, they provide 24/7 customer service, ensuring you can reach them anytime and from anywhere.

Pros + Cons

How to Choose the Best Bank

Before settling on a bank in Pennsylvania, it's important to consider these factors:

Accessibility
Online banking is quite common now. But having nearby branches is still important for convenience. A bank with local branches means easier access to your money and getting in-person assistance.

Online Banking
An easy-to-use online banking system is crucial because a lot of transactions can now be done online. If you're short on time and can't visit an ATM or branch, a good online/mobile banking platform means you can manage your money with just a few taps.

Products and Services Offered
Choose a bank that offers various financial services so you can build a long-term relationship. For example, you can start with a checking account and later add a savings account. Having these options makes banking more convenient.

Monthly Fees
Certain banks might hit you with monthly fees, especially if you don't meet conditions like a minimum balance. These fees can chip away at your money, so it's wise to look for a bank with no fees or where you can easily meet the requirements.

Is a Local Bank Better Than a Big Bank?

Local banks can be a better choice for some people. Many offer lower fees and personalized services. Meanwhile, big banks have more accessibility and a wider range of financial products. Ultimately, the best option depends on your specific needs and preferences.

For example, if you need a local bank with physical branches, PNC Bank is your best bet. However, if your priority is to grow your funds, a bank out of state or even an online bank may offer better savings and investment options.

Bottom Line

Pennsylvanians have a wealth of options for personal and business banking services. From the big names to smaller local institutions, there's a diverse range to explore.

In the end, it's all about what works best for you and your money. Just remember to consider factors like branch accessibility, online banking, fees, and more before you decide!

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Chase Secure Banking℠ - $100 Bonus

Get $100 Coupon

Expires 1/22/2025

• New Chase checking customers enjoy a $100 checking account bonus when you open a Chase Secure Banking℠ account with qualifying transactions. Open online or at any Chase branch.
• Set up direct deposit and you may get your money up to two business days early-exclusively for Chase Secure Banking℠ customers.
• No minimum deposit to open an account and get started plus no overdraft fees with a Chase debit card that helps you stay within your balance.
• No need to worry about overdraft fees - Chase Secure Banking℠ allows you to spend only the money you have available.
• Chase Secure Banking℠ customers told us they save an average of more than $40 per month on fees after opening their account.
• Pay bills, cash checks and send or receive money with Zelle^® with a Chase Secure Banking℠ account.
• Bank from anywhere with access to more than 15,000 Chase ATMs, more than 4,700 Chase branches, the Chase Mobile^® app and Chase.com.
• JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

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Bank of America® Business Advantage Banking Checking Account - $200 Bonus Offer

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Expires 12/31/2024

• The $200 bonus offer is an online only offer and must be opened through the Bank of America promotional page.
• The offer is for new eligible business checking customers only.
• Offer expires 12/31/2024.
• To qualify, deposit $5,000 or more in New Money* directly into a new eligible Bank of America Business Advantage Banking account within thirty (30) days of account opening.
• Maintain an average balance of $5,000 in that new Business Advantage Banking account during the Maintenance Period**.
• Once all requirements are met, Bank of America will attempt to pay bonus within 60 days.
• Additional terms and conditions apply. See offer page for more details.
• *New Money is new funds deposited into your business checking account that are not transfers from other Bank of America deposit accounts or Merrill investment accounts.
  
• ** The Maintenance Period begins thirty-one (31) calendar days after account opening and ends ninety (90) calendar days after account opening.
  
• Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC

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