Best Banks In Ohio: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right One for You

Discover the top 9 banks in Ohio for 2023. Find the best banking options for your financial needs with our comprehensive guide.

Updated April 2024
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Fact checked by Cathy Gresham

Picture of Ohio overlayed with several banks

For those who are looking to open up a bank account as a resident of Ohio, then you’ll be relieved to hear that there are plenty of great options available to you.

In fact, Ohio has over 1,700 different banks operating out of the state, and while it’s good to know that there are a number of options available, it can also make choosing which bank to go with even more difficult!

Deciding on the right bank for you is always a difficult decision, no matter where you find yourself, you always need to consider any fees, the account options available, the interest rates, your proximity to physical branches, and the security of the bank before you can go ahead and decide, so there’s a lot to keep in mind.

We’re here to help though, as we’ve compiled a list of 9 of the best banks for you to use in Ohio, so if you’re struggling with making a decision on which bank to go with, then this list might just provide you with the answer you need!

Note: all banks listed carry FDIC insurance 

Thinking about joining an Ohio-specific credit union instead?

Check out our detailed review of Ohio’s top credit unions:

1. U.S. Bank

U.S Bank, which is the trading name for U.S Bancorp, is known across the country for being one of the biggest banks in the US, which is why so many people choose to rely upon their services when it comes to deciding upon a suitable bank.

U.S Bank is a full-service bank, which is able to serve both personal and business customers, and has over 3,000 physical locations, and over 5,000 ATMs in its network.

U.S Bank has a wide range of both checking and savings accounts available to its customers, with five different savings accounts on offer, as well as a variety of different checking accounts.

Also offered by U.S Bank is a range of other financial products and services, including debit and credit cards, mortgages, loans, and more.

With its large size, full-suite of financial products and services, there’s little doubt then that U.S Bank is certainly a good choice for those in Ohio in need of a bank.

2. Chase Bank

As the largest bank in the U.S., it should come as no surprise to see Chase Bank on this list, with over 4,500 branches across the country, as well as 16,000 ATMs in its network, there’s a good chance that there’s a Chase Bank location near to you.

Chase Bank divides it’s checking accounts into two different categories: everyday accounts, and premium accounts. There are also two different types of saving accounts available, so the one you opt for depends entirely on what you want from your account.

There are also kid’s accounts and accounts for students too. 

Chase Bank also offers a complete, full range of financial services you could want from your bank, from kid’s accounts to ultra-high net worth, if there’s a financial product or service you need, it’s available at Chase.

3. Fifth Third Bank

With its headquarters located in Cincinnati, Fifth Third is a regional bank that serves the Midwest, with over 1,000 branches and 2,500 ATMs situated in the region, it’s definitely a popular choice for those who are looking for a reputable bank when living in Ohio.

Fifth Third is a popular bank for a number of reasons, with one of the main reasons being that they often use their charitable foundation to make a difference in the local communities, and also offer a number of different help programs for their customers too.

There are also a variety of specialized accounts available too, such as military personnel accounts, or people with disabilities, which means that if you require a specialized account for a certain reason, Fifth Third may be able to help you.

Of course, there is the usual range of checking and savings accounts for you to choose from, on top of the usual financial services, such as credit cards, insurance, and investments.

4. Huntington National Park

With some of the best checking accounts available, and with over 500 branches to be found just in Ohio specifically, Huntington National Park is one of the best banks to go with if you’re an Ohio resident.

There is a range of different checking accounts available for you, ranging from a basic option, all the way to the more premium options, some of which will even earn you interest too.

However, people still love even the most basic of checking account options, which include some convenient features, such as a 24-hour grace period on overdraft fees.

There’s also a handy mobile app too, which allows you to keep on top of your banking while on the go, plus there’s a helpline and automated chat if you need any assistance. 

5. PNC Bank

Another one of the largest banks in the U.S., with more than 2,500 branches and 9,000 ATMs is PNC Bank, which operates in over 25 states across the country, and serves both personal, corporate, small businesses, and institutional customers.

However, what makes PNC Bank stand out from the rest is the way in which they operate, because while there are both checking and savings accounts offered, there’s also an account option that allows you to mix these accounts into one singular account, which is somewhat unique. 

PNC Bank also offers a strong digital presence and area they focus on differentiating as better than competitors, making it great for those who like to utilize their banking apps to monitor their money.

So, with three different virtual accounts available to choose from, as well as the usual range of financial services, PNC Bank is a great option for the tech-savvy people out there.

Charlie Munger quote on banks

6. First Financial Bank

If you’re looking for something more local to Ohio, then First Financial Bank is a solid choice of bank for those living in Ohio. They focus on serving  Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. It’s also won awards for its commitment to serving the local communities that it’s in.

There are a total of six checking account options available to you, and five different saving account options on offer too, so there are plenty of choices to be had depending on what you’re looking for from your bank account.

First Financial Bank also provides the full suite of financial services and products you could possibly need from a bank too. 

7. KeyBank

Another great local option for those looking for Ohio-based banks is KeyBank, which is headquartered in Cleveland. Its reach is far beyond just Ohio, though, with office spaces in over 35 different states, 1,200 branches, as well as 1,500 ATMs.

One of the benefits of choosing a regional bank over a nationwide bank is that regional banks tend to be much more involved in their local communities, and KeyBank is no exception, as it frequently publishes its own ESG (environmental, social, and governance) reports, as well as providing a Community Benefits Plan too.

There are two checking accounts available for $0, with fees reaching up to $50 monthly unfortunately, but of course, those accounts include several premium features too.

Aside from the usual financial services most banks offer, KeyBank also provides extensive resources that will help you to learn how to manage and save your money. 

8. Park National Bank

For those who are seeking a truly personalized service from their bank, then Park National Bank is likely the way to go, with 96 locations serving both the Carolinas, Northern Kentucky, and of course, Ohio. 

Park National Bank has a range of four different checking accounts, starting off with a basic, hassle-free checking account option, which still comes with a number of great benefits and features, as well as several great savings accounts, which means that you can choose one that suits you and your needs best.

There’s also the typical range of financial products and services available to you as you need them too.

9. The Savings Bank

Founded back in 1912, The Savings Bank has been one of Ohio’s most prominent community banks, with six operating branches, and offering all of the daily banking services you would require from your bank.

With a good selection of different checking and savings accounts available, and the ability to bank via their mobile app, The Savings Bank is certainly a good option for Ohio residents looking for a reliable and local bank.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the best banks in Cleveland, Ohio?

Consider KeyBank, which is a large regional bank headquartered in Cleveland, with a full suite of banking services, strong customer reviews, and a modern technology stack. It’s a Fortune 500 company with over $170B in assets and a 160-year history. 

What are the best banks in Columbus, Ohio?

You may want to check out Huntington Bank, which is headquartered in Columbus. It’s the 25th largest bank in the US, has good customer reviews, and is known as a full-service bank that is particularly good for small business banking and loans. They’re approaching $200B in assets and have 25K employees. 

Editor's Note:

At Personal Finance Guru, we want to help you maximize your lifestyle through personal finance. You can trust the integrity of our independent financial advice. Our opinions are our own and have not been provided, reviewed, approved, or endorsed by any advertiser or financial product provider. To support and grow the site, however, we may receive compensation from the issuers of some products.

John Wayman

John Wayman

Author

John has always been fascinated by money, wealth, and investing. He got a front-row seat into how Ultra High Net Worth individuals, families, and entities manage their money while working for years in Goldman Sachs’ Private Bank. 

He learned a great deal about personal finance and wealth management from some of the most experienced professionals in the industry.

Now he enjoys helping all kinds of people grow their wealth and achieve their financial goals.

When he’s not advising clients, Cody enjoys playing golf and spending time with family and friends.