When it comes to managing your finances, choosing the right credit union can make all the difference. Credit unions offer a wide range of financial products, often with better interest rates and lower fees compared to traditional banks. If you’re looking for a credit union that aligns with your financial goals, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best credit unions in the U.S. in 2025. Whether you want a local institution or one with a nationwide reach, these credit unions offer great services, benefits, and customer satisfaction.
1. Navy Federal Credit Union
Best for Military Members and Their Families
Navy Federal Credit Union is the largest credit union in the U.S., with over 10 million members. Founded in 1933, Navy Federal primarily serves active-duty military members, veterans, and their families. However, it has expanded its membership criteria to include Department of Defense employees and their families.
Why It’s Great:
-
Competitive interest rates on loans and credit cards
-
Excellent customer service
-
Access to over 30,000 ATMs nationwide
-
High-yield savings options
-
Robust mobile banking app
Membership Requirements: Military members and their families, Department of Defense employees, and other specific groups.
2. State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU)
Best for North Carolina Residents
State Employees’ Credit Union is one of the largest credit unions in the U.S. by assets, with over 2.5 million members. SECU focuses primarily on North Carolina residents and offers an array of products, from loans to checking and savings accounts.
Why It’s Great:
-
Low-interest rates on loans
-
Excellent customer service
-
Free checking accounts with no minimum balance
-
Wide range of loan options, including mortgages
-
Community involvement
Membership Requirements: Employees of the state of North Carolina or their immediate family members.
3. Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed)
Best for Nationwide Coverage
PenFed is another large credit union with a nationwide membership. Known for its competitive rates and extensive banking services, PenFed offers checking and savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and more. It’s also known for offering lower-than-average rates on mortgages.
Why It’s Great:
-
Low rates on personal loans, mortgages, and credit cards
-
Excellent mobile and online banking
-
Easy-to-access locations across the U.S.
-
Competitive savings options
Membership Requirements: Anyone can join by becoming a member of a partner organization, such as the National Military Family Association or the Voices for America’s Troops.
4. Alliant Credit Union
Best for High-Yield Savings and Loans
Based in Chicago, Alliant Credit Union offers some of the most competitive interest rates on savings and loans. Alliant provides full-service banking products, including checking, savings, mortgages, and business accounts.
Why It’s Great:
-
High-yield savings accounts with minimal fees
-
Free checking accounts
-
Excellent loan options, including personal, auto, and mortgage loans
-
Access to over 80,000 ATMs nationwide
Membership Requirements: Anyone can join by donating $10 to the We Promise Foundation, a non-profit organization.
5. SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union
Best for Educators
As the largest credit union in California, SchoolsFirst serves over 1.2 million members, focusing on educators and their families. Its banking services are designed to help people in the education sector, including affordable loans and investment products.
Why It’s Great:
-
Competitive rates on auto loans and mortgages
-
Low fees for checking and savings accounts
-
Member-focused services with financial literacy tools
-
Great customer service for educators and their families
Membership Requirements: Employees, retirees, and students in the educational field, as well as their families.
6. America First Credit Union
Best for Rewards Programs
With over 1 million members, America First Credit Union is based in Utah and is known for its fantastic rewards programs. From cashback credit cards to low-fee checking accounts, America First provides excellent financial tools to its members.
Why It’s Great:
-
Comprehensive rewards programs for credit cardholders
-
Low fees on checking and savings accounts
-
Competitive loan rates
-
Excellent mobile and online banking tools
Membership Requirements: Anyone can join by becoming a member of the American Consumer Council.
7. The Golden 1 Credit Union
Best for Californians
The Golden 1 Credit Union offers a wide array of financial services, including auto loans, mortgages, savings accounts, and credit cards. Its membership is open to residents of California and employees of select organizations.
Why It’s Great:
-
Low loan rates and flexible terms
-
Free checking accounts with no monthly fees
-
Great mobile banking features
-
Wide range of financial education resources
Membership Requirements: California residents or individuals who work with specific employers or organizations.
8. Boeing Employees Credit Union (BECU)
Best for Aviation Enthusiasts
BECU has more than 1 million members and is one of the largest credit unions in the Pacific Northwest. Initially serving Boeing employees, BECU now offers membership to anyone who lives or works in Washington State.
Why It’s Great:
-
Low-interest loans and mortgages
-
Comprehensive banking services for individuals and businesses
-
High-yield savings and certificate options
-
Excellent mobile app and digital services
Membership Requirements: Anyone who lives or works in Washington State can join.
9. VyStar Credit Union
Best for Florida Residents
VyStar Credit Union is based in Jacksonville, Florida, and serves over 800,000 members. With a commitment to community and financial well-being, VyStar offers a wide range of financial products, including loans, savings accounts, and investment options.
Why It’s Great:
-
High-interest rates on savings accounts
-
Low loan rates, including mortgages and auto loans
-
Free checking and savings accounts
-
Excellent customer support
Membership Requirements: Anyone who lives or works in certain Florida counties can join.
10. Connexus Credit Union
Best for National Accessibility
Connexus Credit Union is a growing, nationwide institution that offers comprehensive services, from loans to investment options. Known for its competitive interest rates and strong customer service, Connexus has earned a solid reputation.
Why It’s Great:
-
Great rewards and cashback options on credit cards
-
Low fees on loans and credit cards
-
Access to over 30,000 ATMs nationwide
-
Strong online and mobile banking features
Membership Requirements: Anyone can join by becoming a member of the Connexus Association for a small fee.
Why Choose a Credit Union?
Credit unions offer several key benefits over traditional banks:
-
Lower Fees: Many credit unions have fewer or lower fees than large banks.
-
Better Rates: Credit unions generally offer higher savings rates and lower loan rates.
-
Personalized Service: Credit unions often prioritize customer service and are known for their friendly and helpful staff.
-
Community Involvement: Many credit unions give back to their communities through charity initiatives and local involvement.
How to Choose the Right Credit Union
Choosing the right credit union depends on several factors, including:
-
Location and Access: Consider if the credit union has physical branches or ATMs near you, or if they offer robust online and mobile banking options.
-
Membership Requirements: Some credit unions have strict membership criteria, so ensure you meet them before applying.
-
Financial Products: Look at the products offered (e.g., checking, savings, loans) and compare the rates and terms.
-
Fees and Charges: Pay attention to fees like monthly maintenance charges, ATM fees, and overdraft fees.
Conclusion
Finding the best credit union in the U.S. is all about choosing one that fits your financial needs and goals. Whether you’re looking for better loan rates, higher savings returns, or more convenient services, the credit unions listed above are among the best in the country. Remember to evaluate each based on your location, membership eligibility, and financial requirements to ensure you make the best choice for your future.