The Best Checking Accounts in Texas for 2025

Have you been a customer of big banks, and are you thinking about a change? Local banks can be a good alternative if you’re tired of being treated like just a number and, instead, want to do business with a bank that cares about your community. For some consumers, community banks are where they go first when it’s time to open a checking account.

If you’re interested in learning more about your options, continue reading for facts about the best checking accounts in Texas.

Choosing the best checking account means looking at the various options and deciding what best suits your needs. Let’s examine checking accounts in Texas to help you decide.

Compare Texas and Online Checking Accounts

Is there really a difference between online and in-person checking accounts? There’s not always a difference, but when you consider regional and local community banks, there are some important considerations when choosing where to put your money.

Customer Service and Convenience

Online banks: Have customer service that can be reached conveniently through online chat, phone, or email. They allow you to easily access information about your account online.

Physical banks: Physical banks offer customer service by phone, in a branch, and through online chats. Because of the shorter hours, speaking to someone may not be as convenient if you need to. You can usually access your account information online.

Interest Rates and Fees

Online banks: Online banks tend to have high interest rates and low fees. This is possible because they have lower overheads and can pass savings on to their customers.

Physical banks: When physical banks offer interest-bearing checking accounts, the fees tend to be much lower. Also, fees can be high, though in some cases, banks may not charge fees or will at least waive some of them.

Deposits and Withdrawals

Online banks: Online banks allow customers to deposit money through electronic transfers. Also, people can make withdrawals at ATMs, though they may be charged fees.

Physical banks: Physical banks allow customers to make deposits and withdrawals at a branch and ATM. Also, they can receive deposits through electronic transfers.

Best Checking Accounts in Texas

Not all checking accounts are created equal. Here are some of the best options for you at banks in Texas.

Comerica Bank

Based in Dallas, Comerica Bank is one of the largest financial institutions in the state.

This bank has four checking accounts to choose from: Access, Rich Rewards, Premier, and Platinum Circle options. The simplest account, Access, is a free checking account; the services broaden as you move up the ladder to Platinum Circle, which is reserved for customers with the highest deposits.

There are very few fees assessed on any of these accounts. The downside? You must have a daily balance of $1,000 (for the Access account), which is a bit higher than many online banks.

Frost Bank

San Antonio is home to Frost Bank, another large bank in Texas that offers many financial services, including checking accounts.

There are more than 155 branches in Texas, so those who want to bank in person will have no problem finding a place to do so.

Frost Bank offers three checking account options: the Personal account is basic checking with a $8 monthly service fee, the Plus account has a $15 fee, and the Premium account has a $30 fee. There are simple ways to waive those fees. The Premium account offers the most bells and whistles, including ATM refunds of up to $15 each statement cycle.

Prosperity Bank

This bank calls El Campo home, but you can find branches and ATMs throughout Texas and beyond.

The bank offers seven different checking accounts, including some that bear interest (the Checking with Interest and Interest Plus Checking), an account specifically for teens, and others that require no maintenance fee. Prosperity Bank requires higher daily minimum balances for accounts that bear interest.

The teen account can be opened with only $25; the other accounts require between $100 and $1,500 in opening deposits.

Texas Capital Bank

The checking accounts offered by Texas Capital Bank have no minimum balance requirement and no monthly service charge. Customers have access to a debit card that they can use at the bank’s network of 55,000 ATMs and receive free checks. Also, Texas Capital Bank allows people to send and receive peer-to-peer transfers through Zelle. There is a basic checking account and an interest account available.

Easily Compare the Best Checking Accounts Online

Compare rates, fees, accessibility, customer service, and more. Find the best high-yield checking account for your needs.

What to Consider When Choosing a Texas Checking Account

When choosing the right checking account, consider all the points listed below. Compare and contrast your banking options in Texas by looking at these critical factors.

Monthly Fees

Many banks are eliminating monthly fees or maintenance fees. If your bank still requires a monthly fee, they should offer easy ways to waive it, such as sending a direct deposit to your account each month.

Other Fees

Watch out for the little things, which can sometimes add up to more than what you’d pay in a typical monthly fee. For instance, there might be fees for wire transfers, printed statements, or insufficient funds. Consider how these other fees affect your bottom line.

ATM and Branch Access

You should always have full access to your money in a checking account. ATMs allow you to move money around and withdraw what you need (up to a daily limit), while branch access will enable you to do anything you can’t handle through an ATM or mobile app. If banking in person matters to you, choose a bank with a branch in your local area.

Interest Rates or Bonuses

Not all checking accounts offer interest, but those might offer competitive rates, especially if you have more money in the account each month. Tiered interest is common; you make more interest when you reach certain thresholds. 

Mobile Banking Apps

You should be able to handle your money at any time convenient; a mobile app helps you do that. Look for a bank that offers a robust mobile app that allows you to move your money from one account to another and deposit through mobile checks. 

Pros & Cons of Local Banks

Local banks can bring many benefits but also have some downsides. Here are some points to ponder:

Online Checking for Texas Residents

Texas residents have access to many excellent online banks. When is it wise to open an online checking account instead of a local bank account?

These reviews might help you decide which one you would prefer for your money.

SoFi® Checking and Savings

The SoFi Checking and Savings account stands out for its competitive interest rates, lack of fees, and direct deposit bonuses. Geared toward those seeking alternatives to traditional banking, it caters to individuals prioritizing online convenience.

Offering features like early paycheck access and fee-free overdraft coverage, it appeals to users who prefer digital banking. However, it lacks physical branches.

SoFi offers a practical and cost-effective choice for users comfortable with online management, providing a balance between convenience and financial benefits.

U.S. Bank Checking

The U.S. Bank business checking account is tailored for entrepreneurs with low transaction volumes. It emphasizes in-person banking and 24/7 customer service.

With Silver, Gold, and Platinum options, it requires a $100 minimum deposit, offers FDIC insurance up to $250,000, and provides online, app, and branch access. Despite benefits like an extensive branch network, 24/7 customer service, and no monthly maintenance fees, it has transaction limits, out-of-network ATM fees, and charges for some account types.

Citi Checking

Citi Checking offers a range of account options tailored to varying financial needs, including basic banking services and more feature-rich accounts. Customers can choose from tiers like Basic Banking, Citi Priority, and Citigold, with benefits scaling up for higher account balances. Basic Banking is ideal for everyday needs, offering access to Citi’s extensive ATM network and online banking tools. Higher-tier accounts include perks like waived fees, relationship benefits, and personalized financial guidance.

A standout feature is Citi’s robust mobile app, which makes managing accounts, paying bills, and transferring funds seamless. Citi’s international banking services also appeal to frequent travelers or those needing global accessibility. However, some accounts have higher monthly maintenance fees and balance requirements, which may not suit all budgets.

Citi Checking is best for those seeking comprehensive banking solutions with global capabilities, especially if they can meet the balance requirements to avoid fees.

Fifth Third Bank Checking

Fifth Third Bank offers versatile checking account options designed to cater to a variety of financial needs. Its primary accounts include Fifth Third Momentum® Checking, Fifth Third Preferred Checking®, and Fifth Third Student Banking, each featuring unique benefits. Momentum Checking stands out for having no monthly service fee, making it a great choice for budget-conscious customers. Preferred Checking offers premium features like personalized financial advice and fee waivers, which are ideal for those with higher balances.

Fifth Third’s Early Pay is a key benefit, which allows customers to access direct deposits up to two days early. Its mobile banking app also simplifies account management, bill payments, and financial planning. However, Preferred Checking requires higher balances to waive monthly fees, which might not suit all users.

Fifth Third Checking accounts are a solid choice for those seeking flexible options, low-cost banking, and tools that help manage finances effectively.

Navy Federal Credit Union

Navy Federal Credit Union offers a variety of checking account options tailored to meet the unique needs of its members, primarily active-duty military, veterans, and their families. Options include Free EveryDay Checking, Flagship Checking, and Campus Checking for students. The Free EveryDay Checking account has no monthly fees, making it an excellent choice for everyday banking. Flagship Checking offers dividends on higher balances, which is ideal for members seeking to earn more on their deposits.

One of Navy Federal’s standout features is its ATM fee rebates and expansive ATM network, providing convenient access to cash. The mobile app adds further convenience with features like mobile deposits, budgeting tools, and quick transfers. Members also benefit from competitive rates and a strong focus on member service.

Navy Federal Credit Union’s checking accounts are a top choice

Pros & Cons of Online Checking Accounts

Just as there are advantages and drawbacks to checking accounts through local banks, online banking has pros and cons. Consider these points:

How to Choose: Texas Local Bank vs. Online Checking Account

Those who prefer the in-person touch and a community atmosphere will prefer a local bank for their financial needs. Though local banks don’t usually offer the round-the-clock service you can get from online banks, the branches allow you to talk with someone face-to-face during regular business hours.

An online bank might offer a better mobile app and website for those who prefer to handle their money virtually. However, online banks might not have as many banking options for customers, so those who need mortgages and vehicle financing and prefer to keep their business in one place might find that local banking is best for them.

What to Know About Checking Accounts in Texas

If you have other questions about checking accounts in Texas, these facts might help.

• The time it takes for the funds of a check deposit to be available depends on the type of deposit. When a check under $5,000 is deposited from a local or non-local bank, $200 is made available the next day. Checks of more than $5,000 can take up to seven business days.
• Minors in Texas can open a checking account without their parent’s permission.
• A check is considered no longer valid six months after its date, so banks aren’t obligated to cash it.
• When a consumer wants to stop payment on a check, they need to put the request in writing. Although some banks may allow customers to verbally stop payment on a check, this order is only in place for 14 days. A written stop payment instruction is valid for six months.