Do you want a low mortgage rate and a good experience to boot while obtaining a home loan? While that basically sounds impossible, a company called “Loan Factory” might be worth looking into.
That’s the dual promise they make to prospective clients, and they appear to put their money where their mouth is.
They say their rates are on average $1,000 less than their competitors, and instead of hiding them, you can find them right on their website without logging in.
What makes them unique from big banks and lenders is the fact that they’re a mortgage broker, which gives them access to lots of different rates.
This allows them to shop and negotiate on your behalf so you don’t have to. If that sounds good, read on to learn more.
Loan Factory Fast Facts
Mortgage broker that offers home purchase and refinance loans
Founded in 2006, headquartered in San Jose, CA
Licensed to do business in 40 states and the District of Columbia
25 physical branches located throughout the country
Have funded $10.1 billion in home loans since inception
Their CEO was the #1 loan originator in 2020 per Scotsman Guide rankings
As noted, Loan Factory is a mortgage broker, or middleman between you the homeowner (or home buyer) and a wholesale lender.
They work as a liaison to help you secure financing, whether it’s a home purchase loan or a mortgage refinance.
The company got their start back in 2006 and are headquartered in San Jose, California.
Loan Factory is helmed by CEO Thuan Nguyen, who just happened to be Scotsman Guide’s Top Originator for 2021 with a whopping $2 billion in loan volume.
Some 96% of that volume consisted of mortgage refinance loans, so that’s probably their bread and butter product.
At the moment, the company is licensed in 40 states and the District of Columbia.
Those states include Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
How to Apply with Loan Factory
Your first step might be visiting their website to check daily mortgage rates. Simply enter some basic info and you’ll be off to the races.
If you like what you see among the rates listed, click on “Apply Now” next to the corresponding rate to begin your loan application.
They say it takes about five minutes to complete, at which point you’ll be instructed to upload supporting documentation, such as tax returns, bank statements, and pay stubs.
Once they receive your paperwork and your loan is submitted to a partner lender, a loan officer will reach out and you’ll be eligible to lock your mortgage rate.
After locking the rate, they will send you an email confirmation that clearly details your rate and if there is any cost (discount points) or cash back associated (lender credit).
At that time, you’ll need to pay for a home appraisal, which will be conducted while an underwriter reviews your loan file.
You can log on to their website at any time to check your progress, and they automatically update your status as you go.
It’s also possible to simply create an alert and receive daily pricing updates after you view rates, or click on “Qualify Me” to run your own little mortgage pre-qualification online.
If you’re the type who prefers to work face-to-face, they’ve got about 25 branches scattered across the country. You can also call them directly to get started.
Either way, much of the loan process can be conducted paperlessly from a smartphone or computer.
Loan Programs Available at Loan Factory
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans: rate and term, cash out, streamline
Conforming loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
The main draw of going with Loan Factory is pricing, namely low mortgage rates and limited fees.
As mentioned, they say they beat other lenders by $1,000 on average, which means a lower combination of rate/fee.
So if a lender offers a rate of 3.25% with $2,500 in fees, they might have the same rate with just $1,500 in fees.
They’re able to offer competitive pricing for a number of reasons, the main one being that they have 37 wholesale lender partners to shop with.
Those lenders include the likes of Rocket Mortgage, UWM, loanDepot, PennyMac, Freedom Mortgage, OnQ Financial, AmeriSave, and many more.
Additionally, Loan Factory may receive volume discounts from their partners, and they employ salary-based loan officers as opposed to commission-based ones.
Reduced overhead thanks to a reliance on technology and limited advertising means they can pass savings onto their customers.
They also apparently “cut their profit” so borrowers can obtain lower rates. This would imply taking lower commissions on the back end. In other words, they make less per loan but make up for it on volume.
From what I saw, their rates were indeed on the low end, and you can see for yourself on their website without the need to sign up or log in first.
Loan Factory Reviews
On Google, Loan Factory has perfect 5-star reviews across most if not all of their physical branches.
Simply check out a branch near you and you’ll likely see a 5-star rating. Collectively, they’ve got nearly 6,000 reviews on Google at last glance.
Over at Zillow, they’ve got a near-perfect 4.98-star rating out of a possible 5 from roughly 400 customer reviews.
A good number of those reviews indicate that both the interest rate and closing costs were lower than expected, a testament to their strong pricing.
They’ve also got a 4.9-star rating on Facebook from 150 reviews, and a 4.9 rating on LendingTree from about 60 reviews, along with a 97% recommended score.
You can also check out Yelp reviews for branches near you, which also tend to be highly rated.
Lastly, they are an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau, and currently hold an ‘A+’ rating based on complaint history, of which they’ve had just one in the past 12 months.
Somewhat amazingly, they also have a 4.99/5 rating on the BBB website, which is impressive given reviews via the BBB are typically poor.
To sum things up, Loan Factory seems to be all about low pricing and quality service, which means they could be a really good fit for an existing homeowner looking to refinance.
I’d consider them a streamlined, no-frills discount lender that is best suited for those with straightforward loan scenarios in search of the lowest price.
If you want a more boutique experience, you may want to consider alternatives.
Loan Factory Pros and Cons
The Good
No application fee
Can shop your rate with 37 different lenders at once
Their loan officers are salaried (not commissioned)
Appear to offer low mortgage rates (and you can see them online)
Offer a digital mortgage application and loan process
Also have brick and mortar branches in several cities nationwide
Excellent customer reviews across all ratings sites
A+ BBB rating, accredited business
Free mortgage calculator and mortgage glossary on their website
Some staff speak Cantonese, Filipino, Hindi, Korean, Mandarin, Spanish, and Vietnamese
When it comes to college towns in New Jersey, the Garden State boasts a bountiful harvest.
From the ivy-covered halls of Princeton University to the bustling city streets of Newark, each of the college towns featured below provides a unique blend of culture, history and educational excellence. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best college towns in New Jersey and the attributes that set them apart from the rest. Pick your favorite spot and find your new apartment community in a New Jersey college town.
You can’t have a conversation about college towns in New Jersey without talking about Princeton. This picturesque town, home to the prestigious Princeton University, is the epitome of collegiate charm. Nestled in the heart of New Jersey, this historic town is steeped in tradition and teeming with intellectual energy.
From the moment you set foot in Princeton, you’ll be surrounded by a palpable sense of history and knowledge. The storied campus of Princeton University, with its Gothic architecture and sprawling greens, is a sight to behold in and of itself. However, the town has much more to offer than just its prestigious school. Princeton’s bustling downtown is lined with quaint shops, cozy cafes and a variety of eateries, perfect for students and longtime locals alike.
For those interested in the arts, Princeton’s McCarter Theatre Center and the Princeton University Art Museum are must-visits. Overall, Princeton is a charming and inspiring college town that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for higher education and American history.
Home to Rutgers University, Piscataway is another one of the many vibrant college towns in New Jersey. This town is brimming with energy and enthusiasm, thanks to its diverse population and the university’s dedication to research and innovation.
Located near the Raritan River, Piscataway offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Students can unwind by taking a walk along the scenic riverfront, or visit one of the town’s many parks for a day of picnicking and relaxation. The Rutgers Gardens, a sprawling 180-acre botanical garden, is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of campus life and soak up some natural beauty.
Foodies will appreciate the diverse dining options in Piscataway, ranging from mouthwatering international cuisine to comfort food at local diners. The town also has a thriving arts scene, with the Zimmerli Art Museum and the Rutgers Geology Museum offering unique and engaging exhibits. Overall, Piscataway provides a dynamic and enriching environment for students and visitors alike.
Newark is home to several colleges and universities, including Rutgers University-Newark, the New Jersey Institute of Technology and Seton Hall University. With such an eclectic mix of educational institutions, it’s no surprise that this bustling metropolis is a hub of intellectual activity.
In Newark, you’ll find a vibrant arts scene, anchored by the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the Newark Museum of Art. The city also boasts an impressive selection of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries, where you can savor the flavors of cuisines from around the world. Don’t forget to stop by the historic Ironbound District, known for its rich Portuguese and Brazilian heritage, and sample some of the delicious fare at the area’s many restaurants and cafes.
Newark is not just a center for the arts and gastronomy; it’s also a great place for sports enthusiasts. The Prudential Center, home to the NHL’s New Jersey Devils and various concerts and events, is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. For those who prefer the outdoors, the beautiful Branch Brook Park offers a stunning display of cherry blossoms in the spring, as well as plenty of space for jogging, biking and so much more.
Situated on the banks of the Delaware River, Camden is home to Rutgers University-Camden and the Cooper Medical School of Rowan University. Despite its reputation as a city facing various challenges, Camden is a college town on the rise with a rich history and a promising future.
One of the city’s most significant attractions is the Adventure Aquarium, where visitors can get up close and personal with aquatic life. The nearby Camden Waterfront, with its stunning views of the Philadelphia skyline, offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. Another notable destination is the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial, a fascinating exhibit that pays homage to the state’s proud naval history.
Camden is also home to a burgeoning arts scene, as shown by the city’s many colorful murals and the thriving Rutgers-Camden Center for the Arts. With its combination of history, culture and scenic beauty, Camden is an underrated and unconventional college town in New Jersey.
Madison is a picturesque town that houses Drew University and the College of Saint Elizabeth. This charming, tree-lined town is known for its historic architecture, quaint downtown and strong sense of community.
Downtown Madison is filled with unique shops, cafes and restaurants, providing a welcoming atmosphere for students and locals alike. The town’s commitment to the arts is evident in the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, located on the Drew University campus, which offers engaging productions for theater lovers of all ages.
Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the nearby Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge or the close proximity to picnicking in one of the town’s many parks. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene and beautiful surroundings, Madison is a hidden gem among college towns in New Jersey.
Located just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, Hoboken is home to Stevens Institute of Technology, a prestigious engineering school. This lively city offers a unique blend of urban excitement and small-town charm, making it one of the most distinctive college towns in New Jersey.
Hoboken’s waterfront boasts stunning views of the New York City skyline, as well as numerous parks that pepper the waterfront area. The city’s vibrant downtown is packed with trendy boutiques, delectable restaurants and lively bars, making it a popular destination for students and young professionals.
As the birthplace of Frank Sinatra, Hoboken has a strong musical heritage that is still evident today. The city hosts various live music events throughout the year, and local bars and clubs often feature up-and-coming musicians. With its close proximity to New York City and its own unique charm, Hoboken is an undeniably exciting and dynamic college town.
Nestled at the foot of the Watchung Mountains, Montclair is home to Montclair State University, one of New Jersey’s largest public universities. This picturesque town is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse dining options and beautiful natural surroundings.
Art lovers will appreciate the Montclair Art Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of American and Native American art. The town is also home to numerous art galleries and performance spaces, including the Wellmont Theater and the Studio Playhouse, which host a variety of concerts, plays and other live events.
Montclair’s downtown is filled with eclectic shops, cafes and restaurants, offering a taste of cuisines from around the globe. For the outdoorsy types, the town’s many parks and nature reserves provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking and taking in the stunning vistas in peace.
There’s a new apartment in a New Jersey college town just for you
From the charming streets of Princeton to the lively waterfront of Hoboken, the best college towns in New Jersey perfectly cater to students, residents and visitors alike. Each of the towns mentioned above boasts its own unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty, making them perfect destinations for those seeking both intellectual stimulation and a taste of the quintessential college-town atmosphere.
Whether you’re a prospective student, a curious visitor or a lifelong resident, we encourage you to explore these enchanting college towns in New Jersey and discover the boundless opportunities for growth, inspiration and fun that they each have to offer.
Some of the largest banks call America home. These banks are backed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and offer a variety of products and services. If you prefer a big bank over regional banks or a smaller, community bank, you’ve come to the right place.
Below we’ve compiled a list of the largest banks in the U.S. Once you read through it and perform some of your own research, you should be able to choose a bank or two that meets your needs.
How to Measure Bank Size
First, let’s discuss how to measure the size of a bank. We can do so by looking at the number of customers, number of branches, and number of employees.
But perhaps the best way to measure bank size is by focusing on the total assets under management. This figure shows the actual size of a bank, regardless of how many employees, branches, or ATMs it has.
In our list of the largest banks in the U.S. below, you’ll find that we include each bank’s total assets so you can get a better idea of just how large it is.
Bank Services
We also thought it would be a great idea to briefly discuss how banks work and what they can do for you as a customer. Banks have been around since at least the 14th century. They offer a safe place for individuals and business owners to park their cash and work on various financial goals.
While every bank has their own unique lineup of services, most of them provide checking accounts, savings accounts, and loan services. Some go the extra mile with credit cards, wealth management services, and other conveniences.
Types of Banks
In addition, it’s wise to go over the types of banks at your disposal. The most common types of banks you’ll find include:
Retail banks: Retail banks serve the public and typically have branches and main offices. They provide a wide range of services, like checking and savings accounts, mortgage and loan services, auto financing, CDs, and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Retail banks may be regional banks operating in various states.
Commercial banks: Also known as corporate banks, commercial banks gear their offerings to small business owners and larger corporate entities. In addition to the usual banking services, they may offer cash management, employer services, and commercial real estate services.
Investment banks: Investment banks are designed for corporate clients with complex needs, like mergers and acquisitions. These clients are large corporations, governments, and hedge funds.
Central banks: Central banks are not available to the public. Instead, they’re an independent institution that oversees the money supply and monetary policy in the country. The Federal Reserve Bank is the central bank in the U.S.
Banks vs. Credit Unions
While banks are quite popular, some customers use credit unions instead. While credit unions also offer banking services, like checking and savings accounts, they’re not for profit institutions that are managed by their customers or members.
Compared to banks, credit unions tend to deliver more personalized service. But they also provide fewer services and have fewer branches and ATMs. A credit union can make sense, depending on your unique goals.
20 Biggest Banks In The U.S.
Here’s an overview of the largest banks in the U.S.
1. JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Total Assets: $3.381 Trillion
Headquarters: New York City, New York
If you focus on consolidated assets, JPMorgan Chase earns the spot as the largest bank in the U.S. This investment bank is also a holding company for subsidiaries, including Chase Bank. Chase, which is J.P. Morgan’s consumer banking division, has more than 4,700 branches in the U.S. plus more than 30 branch locations abroad.
According to Chase, almost half of the households in the U.S. are Chase customers. It attracts digital savvy customers that value online banking and products with artificial intelligence (AI). In addition to consumer banking, JPMorgan Chase is a combined bank that offers commercial banking, asset and wealth management, and investment banking.
Chase offers some of the most popular cash back and travel credit cards that can earn you valuable rewards through their program, Chase Ultimate Rewards. Using these credit cards for everyday purchases can earn you travel points, cash back, and other benefits.
2. Bank of America Corp.
Total Assets: $2.440 Trillion
Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina
Bank of America is a multinational bank with nearly 66 million customers and small business clients across the globe. It has a few divisions, including Merrill, Bank of America Securities, and Bank of America Private Bank.
As a Bank of America customer, you can enjoy access to a wide variety of products and services as well as access to more than 4,000 branches and more than 17,000 ATMs.
Just like most big banks, Bank of America prides itself on a robust mobile app, the Zelle payment solution, and other intuitive digital tools. Its various service lines include consumer banking, corporate banking, credit cards, insurance, investment banking services, institutional banking, mortgage loans, private banking, private equity, and wealth management.
3. Citigroup
Total Assets: $1.720 Trillion
Headquarters: New York City, New York
Citigroup, which is widely known as Citi, is an investment bank and financial services firm. When Citigroup merged with Travelers Group in 1998, it became a major player in the financial space. Citibank, Citigroup’s retail banking division has more than 700 branches in the U.S. and over 1,800 branches outside the U.S.
Most of the U.S. bank branches are in Florida, California, New York, and Washington DC. Citibank manages over 138 million bank accounts and has 65,000 fee-free ATMs across the country. Over the years, it has earned high rankings for its digital money management tools, including one that shows customers a financial wellness score.
4. U.S. Bancorp
Total Assets: $582.25 Billion
Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota
The parent company of U.S. Bank, Bancorp’s locations are mainly in the Midwest. It offers personal and business banking with more than 3,000 branches and 5,000 ATMs. Over the years, Bancorp has worked to become a responsible financial provider and earn a spot on the Ethisphere Institute’s World’s Most Ethical Companies list.
As a Bancorp customer, you can access information about your accounts through Google Home and Amazon Alexa. You may also download the handy mobile app to make mobile deposits and perform other services, like transactions via Zelle.
5. PNC Financial Services Group
Total Assets: $534.35 Billion
Headquarters: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
PNC is short for Pittsburgh National Corporation. PNC Financial Services is the bank holding company of PNC Bank, which has more than 2,000 branches across 21 states. It stands out among other large banks for its unique customer perks and products for individuals and business owners. The Virtual Wallet tool, for example, lets you manage your money online or on your mobile device.
You can keep your checking and savings accounts together or just stick to one type of account, depending on your particular needs. In addition to traditional banking services, PNC offers mortgages, home equity lines of credit, auto loans, personal loans and personal lines of credit, student loans, and student loan refinancing.
6. Wells Fargo
Total Assets: $1.71 Trillion
Headquarters: San Francisco, California
Wells Fargo made its debut in 1852 when it was first opened by investing partners, Henry Wells and William Fargo. It was initially designed as a bank and express delivery service for gold. Eventually, Wells Fargo expanded as a consumer bank to serve all types of customers with various banking needs. It is admired for its long list of offerings and the Wells Fargo mobile app that helps customers track their spending and simplify their bills.
While Wells Fargo has focused on consolidating and prioritizing digital banking services in recent years, it still has about 4,700 locations and more than 12,000 ATMs around the U.S.
In addition to personal and small business banking, Wells Fargo supports commercial banking, investing and wealth management, and investment banking.
7. Truist Financial Corporation
Total Assets: $532.08 Billion
Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina
Compared to the other large commercial banks on this list, Truist is fairly new. It was formed in 2019 as the result of one of the largest bank merger between BB&T and SunTrust.
Truist is made up of three major divisions, including Truist Bank, Truist Securities, and Truist Insurance Holdings. These divisions employ over 37,000 people that work in consumer and commercial banking, investment banking, mortgages, and insurance.
It offers a variety of noteworthy perks, such as no overdraft fees, a $100 negative balance buffer, and automatic upgrades. The bank also places a lot of emphasis on community involvement and giving back.
8. Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
Total Assets: $501.91 Billion
Headquarters: New York City, New York
Goldman Sachs was founded in 1869 by Marcus Goldman, a German American shopkeeper. Its original purpose was to help merchants and small businesses with short-term funding. Eventually, Samuel Sachs joined Goldman in 1882. Today, Goldman Sachs has a reputation as a leading global investment banking, management, and securities firm.
In the fall of 2016, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, its online banking division made its debut and began to offer numerous financial products, like savings accounts, certificates of deposit, credit cards, and loans.
In addition to these offerings, Goldman Sachs provides asset management services, mutual funds, investment banking and management, prime brokerage, commodities, and commercial banking.
9. Charles Schwab Corporation
Total Assets: $407.90 Billion
Headquarters: San Francisco, California
Charles Schwab is a multinational financial services firm with a focus on investment accounts, such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and brokerage accounts.
You’ll find an extensive selection of funds with low expense ratios as well as commission-free stock and ETF trades. While there are over 360 Charles Schwab branches with financial consultants, you can take advantage of its services online.
Schwab also offers a high-yield checking account. Whether you’re new to investing or consider yourself a veteran, you can benefit from Charles Schwab.
10. TD Group U.S. Holdings
Total Assets: $405.22 Billion
Headquarters: Wilmington, Delaware
While TD Bank has roots in Canada, it’s been in the U.S. market since 2007 when it acquired Commerce Bancorp. There are more than 1,100 branches and 700 ATMs across fifteen U.S. states and Washington D.C.
TD Bank offers the typical lineup of banking products and services but is known for its branch convenience. Most branches have long hours, are open on the weekends, and provide curbside pickup for new debit cards.
If you prefer in-person banking, TD Bank is certainly worth exploring. Many of its accounts come with generous sign up bonuses and access to comprehensive online banking features, such as online bill pay, Zelle, and remote check deposit.
11. Capital One Financial
Total Assets: $388.44 Billion
Headquarters: McLean, Virginia
Since it was established in 1988, Capital One bank is one of the newer large banks on our list. In only a few decades, the bank has grown significantly, thanks to its credit card offerings in the early 90s.
Once 2016 came around, Capital One was named the third-largest credit card issuer in the U.S. These days, Capital One continues to offer credit cards as well as digital services through Capital One 360.
Capital One 360 stands out for its Capital One’s 360 Performance Savings account, which comes with no minimum opening deposit and no minimum balance requirements.
It also has a mobile banking app with mobile check deposit, customized alerts and notifications, Zelle, free credit score monitoring via CreditWise, and more. There are about 775 branches, 2,000 ATMs, and nearly 30 Capital One cafes.
12. Bank of New York Mellon
Total Assets: $365.10 Billion
Headquarters: New York City, New York
Bank of New York Mellon came about after a 2006 merger between Mellon Financial Corporation and The Bank of New York. The Bank of New York was originally founded in 1784 by Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury of the U.S. Bank of New York Mellon is now one of the largest securities firms in the word.
It specializes in a number of solutions and services for corporations, insurance companies, banks, brokers, dealers, and other reputable clients in the financial industry. In addition, the bank offers private investment and wealth management services for wealthy clients.
13. State Street Corporation
Total Assets: $296.43 Billion
Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts
State Street Corporation was founded in 1792 as a financial services and asset management company. It has more than 40,000 employees and a global presence in over 100 markets.
Its offerings include investment research and trading, investment management, and securities lending for clients, such as insurance companies, pension funds, and asset owners.
14. Citizens Financial Group
Total Assets: $226.53 Billion
Headquarters: Providence, Rhode Island
Citizens Financial Group, Inc. has been around since 1828. It owns Citizens Bank, its retail division and offers credit cards, deposit accounts, personal loans, student loans, refinancing, and a number of other financial services. Citizen Bank mainly operates in the Northeast and Midwest.
In addition to more than 2,700 ATMs, there are over 1,100 branches in New England states as well as Delaware, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey. The bank provides extended call center hours, a streamlined online experience, and a highly rated mobile app.
15. Silicon Valley Bank
Total Assets: $211.82 Billion
Headquarters: Santa Clara, California
Silicon Valley Bank made its debut in 1983. Today, it serves as a full-service commercial bank for technology and life sciences companies. Aside from traditional banking services, Silicon Valley Bank offers foreign exchange, venture capital, and treasury management services.
It has supported innovation for several well-known tech companies, including Google and Facebook. Many people give it credit for establishing Silicon Valley.
16. Fifth Third Bank
Total Assets: $205.55 Billion
Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio
Fifth Third Bank is a subsidiary of Fifth Third Bancorp and known as one of the largest banks in the Midwest. It has approximately 1,100 branches that span across Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, North Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia.
As a customer, you can enjoy access to more than 50,000 ATMs across the country and no opening deposit requirements for checking and savings accounts.
In addition to deposit accounts, Fifth Third Bank financial institutions offer mortgages, auto financing, personal loans, insurance, and investing products. Products and services are available to business customers as well.
17. First Republic Bank
Total Assets: $197.91 Billion
Headquarters: San Francisco, California
First Republic Bank is a premier private bank with more than 80 branches across the country. Its vast lineup of products and services includes checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, IRAs, CDs, and wealth management.
Business customers can take advantage of business loans, business lines of credit, commercial real estate loans, and small business loans. The bank focuses on philanthropy and constantly supports programs related to art and education.
18. Morgan Stanley
Total Assets: $191.35 Billion
Headquarters: New York City, New York
Morgan Stanley’s roots date back to 1935. Today, the bank is a reputable, multinational investment management and financial services company. It has over 700 locations in every state as well as Washington D.C.
Its investing division includes three portfolios, including the impact portfolio, market-tracking portfolio, and performance-seeking portfolio. Whether you’re a beginner investor or wealthy client, Morgan Stanley may be a solid pick.
19. KeyBank
Total Assets: $184.67 Billion
Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio
KeyBank was founded in 1825 and is now considered a community bank with a presence in 15 states. It has more than 40,000 ATMs in its network and 1,000 full-service branches. The bank also partners with the AllPoint Network of over 40,000 ATMs nationwide.
Its standard services include checking accounts, savings accounts, home loans and mortgages, lines of credit, credit cards, investing, insurance, and debt consolidation. In 2021, KeyBank acquired several digital businesses including digital platform XUP Payments and GradFin, a student loan counseling fintech.
20. Ally Bank
Total Assets: $182.2 Billion
Headquarters: Sandy, UT
While it’s based in Utah, Ally Bank is an online only bank with a long list of digital banking solutions. Its deposit accounts come with no monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance requirements.
The bank also pays high yields on CDs and savings accounts than traditional banks with brick-and-mortar banks. As a customer, you can enjoy 24/7 customer services and access to more than 43,000 ATMs through the Allpoint network.
Bottom Line
As you can see, there are many large banks in the United States. Each one has its own unique perks and priorities. To choose the right bank, consider your location, needs, and preferences.
If you’re looking for personal banking services and prefer a digital platform, Goldman Sachs and its Marcus division may be the way to go. But if private wealth management is your top priority, you may be better off with Bank of New York Mellon. Best of luck in your search for the perfect large bank.
Largest Banks in the U.S. FAQs
What is a bank?
Put simply, a bank is a financial institution that can legally accept checking and savings deposits and distribute loans. Some banks also offer additional services like certificates of deposit (CDs), individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and wealth management.
What is the largest bank in the world?
The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China is the largest bank in the world. The bank’s assets add up to $4.324 Trillion.
What are the ten largest banks in the U.S.?
Ranked in total asset value, the ten largest banks in the U.S. include JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, U.S. Bancorp, PNC, Truist Bank, Goldman Sachs, Charles Schwab, and TD Group.
How do I choose a bank?
To choose the right bank, focus on what you’re looking for. For more personalized service, you might want to explore a community bank. But if you prefer branch locations across the country and a long list of offerings, one of the large banks on this list might be a better fit.
Is my money safe in a bank?
Your money is safe as long as the bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). An FDIC-insured bank typically insures up to $250,000 per depositor. Note that you don’t have to purchase FDIC insurance. As long as you’re a customer at a bank that offers it, you’ll receive it automatically.
How does a commercial bank differ from a retail bank?
A commercial bank offers a variety of products and services to both individuals and businesses. Retail banks, on the other hand, focus their offerings to individual customers. If you own a business, you’d be better off with a commercial bank that can serve the financial needs of your organization.
Do online banks exist?
Absolutely! In today’s day and age, online banking is more popular than ever before, among larger banks and smaller banks. While some banks offer in-person and online services, other banks, like Ally Bank, solely operate online with no branch locations.
What are some other large banks not on this list?
Other big banks you might want to consider include First National Bank, Huntington Bank, Provident National Corporation, America Bank, and HSBC Bank USA.
With a name like “NJ Lenders Corp.,” there’s no question who they’re focused on; folks in the Garden State!
What’s more interesting is the fact that something like 70% of their mortgage loans are derived from previous customer referrals.
In other words, they constantly get recommended by friends and neighbors, instead of having to rely solely upon advertising.
And when you focus so heavily on one geographical area, you definitely want to get it right.
So far, they seem to be accomplishing their goals, as evidenced by their thousands of 5-star reviews. Read on to learn more.
NJ Lenders Corp. Fast Facts
Retail, direct-to-consumer mortgage lender
Offers home purchase loans and refinances
Founded in 1991, headquartered in Little Falls, NJ
Funded roughly $5.5 billion in home loans last year
More than 80% of business done in home state of New Jersey
Also active in New York, Massachusetts, and Florida
Currently licensed in 14 states and the District of Columbia
NJ Lenders Corp. is a direct-to-consumer mortgage lender with branches in three states, mostly located in New Jersey.
They got their start way back in 1991, which if you’re not keeping track is more than 30 years ago.
Since that time, they’ve grown from a modest single office into a multi-billion-dollar mortgage originator.
They’ve closed more than 100,000 mortgage loans, with loan volume exceeding $40 billion.
Last year, they funded a solid $5.5 billion in home loans, which was probably their biggest annual production on record.
Business was split nearly equally between purchase loans and mortgage refinances.
At the moment, they’re licensed in 16 states, including Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, along with Washington D.C.
As noted, they are laser-focused on New Jersey, with the state accounting for more than 80% of overall volume.
But they’re also active in the states of New York, Massachusetts, and Florida, and originate home loans across much of the East Coast.
They were the fifth largest mortgage lender in the state of New Jersey, only topped by Rocket Mortgage, Wells Fargo, Chase, and loanDepot.
How to Apply for a Mortgage with NJ Lenders Corp.
While they have physical branches in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, there’s a good chance you’ll work remotely with a loan officer.
The good news is they have a solid website and loan application process, which is mostly paperless.
In fact, you can download their free smartphone app and complete much of the process from the palm of your hand.
Their digital app is powered by SimpleNexus, one of the leaders in the fintech space.
It allows you to complete the application digitally from any device, eSign documents, upload paperwork, and snag same-day pre-approvals.
Once your loan is submitted, you’ll gain access to secure, real-time updates as your loan progresses forward.
NJ Lenders Corp. said they built a better operations platform by keeping 95% of their files in-house.
This allows them to control the entire underwriting and loan closing process, improving both efficiencies and speed.
If you’re a home buyer, you can take advantage of their “Home Buyer’s Edge” program, which goes beyond a basic mortgage pre-qualification.
It provides a full credit approval that involves a complete review of your income, assets, and credit by a loan underwriter.
This gives home sellers peace of mind your offer can actually close in the event of a bidding war.
All in all, they appear to offer the latest tech and a solid operations setup to keep loans moving quickly to the closing table.
To get started, simply head over to their website and click on “get a rate quote” or “find a loan officer.”
Home Loan Programs Offered by NJ Lenders Corp.
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans: rate and term, cash out, streamline
Home renovation loans
Conforming loans
Jumbo loans
FHA loans
VA loans
USDA loans
First-time home buyer loans
Non-warrantable condo financing
Reverse mortgages
Interest only home loans
NJ Lenders Corp. offers an excellent selection of loan programs, including harder-to-find options like interest-only home loans and non-warrantable condo financing.
You can get a home purchase loan, renovation loan, or refinance loan, including a cash out refinance.
They offer the full suite of government loans (FHA/USDA/VA), along with both conforming loans and jumbos.
And they’ve got first-time home buyer loans with low down payment requirements, as well as reverse mortgages for seniors.
You can get a home loan on all major property types, from single-family homes to condos/townhomes and investment properties.
NJ Lenders Corp. Rates
The only area where more information would be helpful is pricing.
They don’t publicize their mortgage rates online, nor is there a lender fee section on their site.
This means you’ll need to fill the mortgage rate quote request form on their website, or simply call in to get connected with a loan officer.
Generally, it’s best to get pricing and check eligibility before completing a loan application anyway.
NJ Lenders Corp. does say their goal has always been to offer competitive mortgage rates and fees, and they wrote “best mortgage rates” on their website homepage.
So as an independent mortgage banker there’s a good chance they offer low rates. But always take the time to shop around, and compare offers.
Also inquire about any fees charged, such as a loan origination fee or separate costs for underwriting and processing, if applicable.
NJ Lenders Corp. Reviews
On Experience.com, NJ Lenders Corp. has an excellent 4.88-star rating out of a possible 5 from more than 20,000 customer reviews.
You can filter by loan officer on that site if you want to fine-tune your search.
Over at Zillow, it’s a superior 4.98-star rating from 3,300+ reviews, pretty much as close to perfection as you can get.
Many of those reviews indicate that the interest rate and/or fees and closing costs were lower than expected.
They’ve also got a 4.8-star rating on Google from more than 600 reviews.
Lastly, while not accredited with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), they do hold an ‘A+’ rating based on complaint history.
To summarize, NJ Lenders Corp. has thousands of excellent customer reviews, uses the latest tech, and has tons of loan programs to choose from.
The only real question mark relates to loan pricing. If it’s also good, they could be an excellent choice for either a home purchase or a refinance.
NJ Lenders Corp. Pros and Cons
The Good
Can apply for a home loan online or via smartphone
Many physical branches in the state of New Jersey
Offer a digital loan process powered by SimpleNexus
Lots of loan programs including interest-only, reverse, etc.
Offer fully underwritten credit approvals to give home buyers an edge
Thousands of excellent customer reviews across ratings websites
A+ BBB rating
Free smartphone app
Free mortgage calculators, guides, and glossary online
On average, it costs $23,890 a year to attend an out-of-state school versus $9,410 for an in-state school. That’s $14,480 more per year you could pay — just to attend a college in a different state than where you grew up.
Source: Giphy.com
Over four years, you could end up paying $60,000 more than someone who attends school in-state. So, what are some ways you can lower the cost of out-of-state tuition? Here are seven of our biggest tips.
What’s Ahead:
1. Research Regional Reciprocity Programs
Many schools have “regional reciprocity agreements” or “tuition exchange programs” that let you attend certain out-of-state colleges for in-state rates.
For instance, 18 colleges in Georgia offer in-state tuition to residents of border states. This includes Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida.
On a much broader scale, several states have banded together to create regional reciprocity programs that give you reduced out-of-state tuition at hundreds of public and private schools.
The four biggest regional reciprocity programs include:
Midwest Student Exchange — Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.
The New England Regional Student Program — Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
Academic Common Market — Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Western Undergraduate Exchange — Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
Some schools will offer in-state tuition to any student in a neighboring state, while others may require you to meet certain criteria — such as having a specific high school GPA or declaring a certain major.
MU30 Tip: Already have a few colleges in mind? Look on their websites or contact financial aid to see if they have any tuition exchange or reciprocity programs in place.
2. See If You Qualify for a Tuition Waiver
In some cases, you may be able to get a tuition waiver that allows you to attend an out-of-state college at a reduced rate. Tuition waivers are usually granted to students with special circumstances:
You (or someone in your immediate family) is a veteran or active duty military member.
You were valedictorian or a high achiever.
You’re enrolled in a special degree program, such as STEM or health care.
You work for the school you wish to attend.
You were or are a part of the foster care system.
You’re a nontraditional student.
You’re of Native American heritage.
You have a financial hardship.
To see if you qualify, search for the phrase “tuition waiver” on your favorite schools’ websites. This should pull up a list of all the tuition waivers currently available. (For example, I found 13 waivers on the University of Washington’s website.)
3. Apply for Out-of-State Scholarships
There are several scholarships specifically for students who are attending college out-of-state. These scholarships can help you cover the costs of tuition, room and board, and other expenses.
To find out-of-state scholarships, start by checking with your college’s financial aid office. There’s a good chance the school has scholarships earmarked for nonresidents.
From there, do a scholarship search using a tool like the College Board Scholarship Search or Fastweb. You may find some private scholarships to help lower your out-of-pocket costs.
Read more: Scholarships and Grants: How To Score Free Money for College
MU30 Tip: Does your parent or guardian work in higher education at one of these Tuition Exchange member schools? If so, you can apply for a reciprocal scholarship that lets you attend hundreds of schools in the U.S., Canada, Greece, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates, and Switzerland at a free or reduced rate!
4. Think About Becoming a Resident Assistant
If you’re planning on attending college out-of-state, one way to lower your costs is to become a resident assistant (RA). RAs typically receive free or reduced-cost housing in exchange for their duties, which can include things like leading tours and organizing social events.
So while you may not get a tuition discount, it could help you save on housing while you’re there.
To become an RA, start by talking to your college’s housing office. They should be able to tell you about any open RA positions and their requirements. You may also need to fill out an application and go through an interview process.
5. Negotiate Out-of-State Tuition With the Financial Aid Office
It’s not widely advertised, but you can technically negotiate the cost of tuition and fees with the financial aid office. In fact, doing so could save you anywhere from 5% to 15%. On a four-year degree that costs $60,000, that’s a savings of $3,000 to $9,000.
Beyond negotiating, the financial aid office is also a way to find out what types of aid are available to you as an out-of-state student.
Read more:
6. Become an In-State Resident
This tip may seem a little far-fetched, but hear me out. If you’re taking a gap year, for instance, and have time to establish residency in the state where you want to attend college, it could be worth it.
Every state has different requirements for residency, but you’ll typically need to live there for at least a year before you can apply for in-state status.
Start by researching the requirements for the state you want to move to, then get working on completing them. This could include getting a job or an apartment in the state, getting a driver’s license, and more.
7. Look for Schools With Lower Out-of-State Tuition Rates
If all else fails and there’s no way for you to get reduced out-of-state tuition, another option is to simply look for schools that charge lower rates for out-of-state students.
MU30 Tip: Want to see which colleges have the lowest tuition rates? Check out this affordability calculator from the U.S. Department of Education.
Once you have out-of-state tuition rates for different colleges, you can start to compare your options and make a decision about which school is the best fit for you.
Read more: Not Enough Financial Aid? Here are 10 Ways To Pay for College
Bottom Line
Out-of-state tuition can be costly, but there are ways to minimize costs without racking up a ton of student loan debt. Use these tips to see how much you can save.
Featured image: Alexander Lukatskiy/Shutterstock.com
On average, it costs $23,890 a year to attend an out-of-state school versus $9,410 for an in-state school. That’s $14,480 more per year you could pay — just to attend a college in a different state than where you grew up.
Source: Giphy.com
Over four years, you could end up paying $60,000 more than someone who attends school in-state. So, what are some ways you can lower the cost of out-of-state tuition? Here are seven of our biggest tips.
What’s Ahead:
1. Research Regional Reciprocity Programs
Many schools have “regional reciprocity agreements” or “tuition exchange programs” that let you attend certain out-of-state colleges for in-state rates.
For instance, 18 colleges in Georgia offer in-state tuition to residents of border states. This includes Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida.
On a much broader scale, several states have banded together to create regional reciprocity programs that give you reduced out-of-state tuition at hundreds of public and private schools.
The four biggest regional reciprocity programs include:
Midwest Student Exchange — Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.
The New England Regional Student Program — Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
Academic Common Market — Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Western Undergraduate Exchange — Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
Some schools will offer in-state tuition to any student in a neighboring state, while others may require you to meet certain criteria — such as having a specific high school GPA or declaring a certain major.
MU30 Tip: Already have a few colleges in mind? Look on their websites or contact financial aid to see if they have any tuition exchange or reciprocity programs in place.
2. See If You Qualify for a Tuition Waiver
In some cases, you may be able to get a tuition waiver that allows you to attend an out-of-state college at a reduced rate. Tuition waivers are usually granted to students with special circumstances:
You (or someone in your immediate family) is a veteran or active duty military member.
You were valedictorian or a high achiever.
You’re enrolled in a special degree program, such as STEM or health care.
You work for the school you wish to attend.
You were or are a part of the foster care system.
You’re a nontraditional student.
You’re of Native American heritage.
You have a financial hardship.
To see if you qualify, search for the phrase “tuition waiver” on your favorite schools’ websites. This should pull up a list of all the tuition waivers currently available. (For example, I found 13 waivers on the University of Washington’s website.)
3. Apply for Out-of-State Scholarships
There are several scholarships specifically for students who are attending college out-of-state. These scholarships can help you cover the costs of tuition, room and board, and other expenses.
To find out-of-state scholarships, start by checking with your college’s financial aid office. There’s a good chance the school has scholarships earmarked for nonresidents.
From there, do a scholarship search using a tool like the College Board Scholarship Search or Fastweb. You may find some private scholarships to help lower your out-of-pocket costs.
Read more: Scholarships and Grants: How To Score Free Money for College
MU30 Tip: Does your parent or guardian work in higher education at one of these Tuition Exchange member schools? If so, you can apply for a reciprocal scholarship that lets you attend hundreds of schools in the U.S., Canada, Greece, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates, and Switzerland at a free or reduced rate!
4. Think About Becoming a Resident Assistant
If you’re planning on attending college out-of-state, one way to lower your costs is to become a resident assistant (RA). RAs typically receive free or reduced-cost housing in exchange for their duties, which can include things like leading tours and organizing social events.
So while you may not get a tuition discount, it could help you save on housing while you’re there.
To become an RA, start by talking to your college’s housing office. They should be able to tell you about any open RA positions and their requirements. You may also need to fill out an application and go through an interview process.
5. Negotiate Out-of-State Tuition With the Financial Aid Office
It’s not widely advertised, but you can technically negotiate the cost of tuition and fees with the financial aid office. In fact, doing so could save you anywhere from 5% to 15%. On a four-year degree that costs $60,000, that’s a savings of $3,000 to $9,000.
Beyond negotiating, the financial aid office is also a way to find out what types of aid are available to you as an out-of-state student.
Read more:
6. Become an In-State Resident
This tip may seem a little far-fetched, but hear me out. If you’re taking a gap year, for instance, and have time to establish residency in the state where you want to attend college, it could be worth it.
Every state has different requirements for residency, but you’ll typically need to live there for at least a year before you can apply for in-state status.
Start by researching the requirements for the state you want to move to, then get working on completing them. This could include getting a job or an apartment in the state, getting a driver’s license, and more.
7. Look for Schools With Lower Out-of-State Tuition Rates
If all else fails and there’s no way for you to get reduced out-of-state tuition, another option is to simply look for schools that charge lower rates for out-of-state students.
MU30 Tip: Want to see which colleges have the lowest tuition rates? Check out this affordability calculator from the U.S. Department of Education.
Once you have out-of-state tuition rates for different colleges, you can start to compare your options and make a decision about which school is the best fit for you.
Read more: Not Enough Financial Aid? Here are 10 Ways To Pay for College
Bottom Line
Out-of-state tuition can be costly, but there are ways to minimize costs without racking up a ton of student loan debt. Use these tips to see how much you can save.
Featured image: Alexander Lukatskiy/Shutterstock.com
We’re living longer than ever before, and doing so in better health. So what can you do when you retire and want to keep your mind sharp or need to gain additional skills to stay competitive at work?
For many, the answer is to go back to school. But tuition can be prohibitively expensive.
At the same time, schools want their classrooms to be full of engaged students, regardless of age. In the interest of continuing education, many colleges and universities offer reduced or free college for seniors (typically, adults 60 and up, although the rules vary).
In fact, we found at least one option in every state.
Free (or Cheap) College for Seniors in Every State
While some institutions only allow senior students to audit classes, many offer the chance to earn credits toward a degree at a reduced — or completely waived — tuition rate.
Does your state have a senior citizen education program you can use? Find out below!
1. Alabama
The Alabama Commission on Higher Education states that Alabama seniors can attend any two-year institution within the state tuition-free.
Adults 60 and older should contact the financial aid office at any community college for admission and eligibility details.
Some Alabama schools, like Coastal Alabama Community College, offer online courses if you want to avoid in-person classes.
2. Alaska
The University of Alaska waives tuition for senior-citizen residents who receive full Social Security benefits. Seniors must wait until the first day of classes to enroll to ensure that there’s space remaining; they must also complete a tuition-waiver form.
Additional costs such as student activity, health center and lab fees are not covered; the student must pay them directly.
Online courses may be included if offered; check with the admissions office for confirmation.
3. Arizona
All 10 campuses of Maricopa Community College allow senior citizens to take classes for credit at 50% of the full tuition cost.
Students 65 and older must register between the first and second class sessions of the semester to ensure space is available. You can register for in-person, online or hybrid classes.
4. Arkansas
Arkansas waives tuition for anyone 60 and over who wants to work toward an undergraduate or graduate degree at state institutions.
Student fees may apply, and senior citizens may register only for classes with space available. If you need online courses, check with your chosen college to see what options you have.
5. California
California State University waives all tuition for state-supported classes and dramatically reduces campus fees for residents age 60 or older.
Different Cal State locations may offer online courses or in-person classes. Students who attend in-person classes must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
6. Colorado
Students age 55 and older may attend class on a space-available basis at Colorado State University. There is no tuition fee, but visitors don’t get credit for attending class. It is up to the instructor how participation and grading of assignments and tests are handled. CSU currently offers face to face, hybrid and online classes.
At the University of Colorado Denver, people 60 and older may enroll on a no-credit basis to attend up to two classes per semester as auditors when space is available. (Courses with a lab component are excluded, as are computer courses and online courses.)
7. Connecticut
Residents 62 and up may attend state colleges, including community colleges, for free on a space-available basis.
At Central Connecticut State University, for example, tuition is waived for any resident over the age of 62 who applies for full- or part-time admission for a degree-granting program. Online courses are included.
Senior students may also take noncredit courses on a space-available basis and have tuition waived. All students must still pay all other fees.
8. Delaware
The University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Delaware Technical and Community College allow all permanent state residents age 60 or older to audit or take classes for credit for free.
At the University of Delaware, students wishing to use the program must apply for admission on a space-available basis. Some graduate degrees may be eligible, as well. Residents can register for online or in-person courses.
Participants must pay all related student fees and buy their own textbooks.
9. District of Columbia
Senior citizens 65 and up may audit undergraduate courses from Georgetown University’s School of Continuing Studies. These students pay a fee of $32 per credit, which means a three-credit course will cost $96.
To audit a course, there must be available space and the instructor of record must approve the enrollment.
10. Florida
The Florida college system waives application, tuition and student fees for those age 60 and above, but colleges will award no credit and will grant admission on a space-available basis. Check to see whether your chosen college covers online courses as well as in-person ones.
Fun fact: Florida Atlantic University’s Lifelong Learning Society has the largest adult continuing education program in the U.S. It even has its own auditorium on campus to help serve FAU’s 30,000 new registrants each year.
11. Georgia
Georgia residents age 62 and above may take classes on a space-available basis for “little or no cost” at the state’s public colleges.
Seniors may choose to take classes for credit or continuing education, but they must apply through the regular admissions process at their school of choice. Many general education courses are offered online.
12. Hawaii
The Senior Citizen Visitor Program at the University of Hawaii and state community colleges allows senior residents age 60 and up to attend up to two courses per semester free of charge. Seniors who have been residents of Hawaii for at least one year may enroll in in-person, hybrid or online courses for no cost. It’s recommended but not required for students to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Students must demonstrate tuberculosis (TB) clearance by providing test results or a TB risk assessment form signed by a licensed U.S. health care provider.
Schools will not award credit nor will they keep permanent records of students’ class history.
13. Idaho
Programs in Idaho vary based on institution, but some schools offer good deals. The College of Southern Idaho offers free tuition for lower division courses for students aged 60 and older, in addition to other benefits. The college has online and in-person courses.
At Boise State University, Idaho residents who are at least 65 years old can audit classes on a space-available basis for free except for applicable special course fees. BSU offers online courses as well as in-person ones.
14. Illinois
Upon admission, senior citizens age 65 and up who meet income requirements can attend regular credit courses at Illinois public institutions for free. Lab, student and other fees still apply. Each institution will have guidance on registering for online or in-person classes.
15. Indiana
Indiana University offers programs that allow retired residents age 60 and older to take up to nine credit hours per semester and pay just 50% of in-state tuition fees. Courses are in person.
16. Iowa
Private institution Simpson College in Indianola allows people 65 and older to take one noncredit class for free per semester. Courses are open on a space-available basis and do not include lab courses. Online courses may be available.
17. Kansas
Tuition and fees are waived for students age 65 and older taking classes on a space-available basis. Residents must be admitted to a state-supported school to take advantage of this discount. Each school can also provide info on in-person versus online courses.
The registration process varies: The University of Kansas and Wichita State University, for example, require senior auditors to apply for admission. Online or in-person courses may be offered.
18. Kentucky
Tuition and fees are waived for students age 65 and older taking classes on a space-available basis. Residents must be admitted to a state-supported school to take advantage of this discount. Each school can also provide info on in-person versus online courses.
19. Louisiana
Students age 65 and up attending Louisiana state schools receive free tuition and 50% off books and materials at the campus student bookstore. Check with each school to see if online courses are included.
20. Maine
Senior citizens 65 and up may attend undergraduate classes as degree-seeking or audit students in the University of Maine System for free, subject to space availability.
Each college within the system can provide info on the types of courses covered (i.e., online, in-person, hybrid).
21. Maryland
Any student in the University of Maryland System who is retired and over the age of 60 may have tuition waived for up to three courses per semester, even for degree-granting programs. Online courses are available as well as face-to-face offerings.
Online courses are available as well as face-to-face offerings.
22. Massachusetts
Residents age 60 or older can take at least three credits per semester at any state-supported school in Massachusetts and receive free tuition.
Each location has information on what online courses are offered.
23. Michigan
Opportunities for seniors in Michigan vary by institution.
At Michigan Tech, for example, students 60 and older can have tuition waived for up to two courses per semester. Seniors must apply through the admissions office.
Western Michigan University invites seniors 62 and older to register for one class per semester tuition-free, which may include online classes.
At Wayne State University in Detroit, seniors 60 and up receive a 75% discount on tuition but must pay registration and related fees. Wayne State offers some online courses.
24. Minnesota
Minnesota waives tuition for senior citizens 62 and older, but fees and online options may vary by school. At the University of Minnesota, seniors pay a $10 fee per credit, but they can audit for free.
25. Mississippi
There’s no statewide benefit in Mississippi, but some schools have programs for seniors.
Mississippi State University provides a waiver to residents age 60 or older for classes offered on the Starkville or Meridian campuses or by the Center for Distance Education. Seniors are limited to six semester hours per semester and a maximum of 18 credit hours per calendar year, where space is available. MSU offers online courses as well as traditional in-person ones.
The University of Mississippi’s Office of Professional Development and Lifelong Learning allows seniors 65 and older to take one class for free per semester (up to four hours) at any UM campus.
26. Missouri
Missouri residents age 65 and older are exempt from paying tuition at state-supported institutions for classes attended on a noncredit basis. Schools may limit the number of students who receive the tuition benefit based on space availability. Online classes are offered in addition to in-person ones.
27. Montana
The Montana University System offers a tuition waiver for in-state residents 65 or older. Campus and registration fees are not waived. Choose from online or in-person classes.
28. Nebraska
Chadron State College allows adults 65 and up to audit one course per semester for free. The college offers classes online and on campus.
29. Nevada
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas allows seniors 62 and up to take autumn and spring courses free of charge. They pay 50% tuition for summer classes. Lab and other course fees are not covered. Online courses may be offered.
30. New Hampshire
The University of New Hampshire offers residents 65 and older free tuition for two credit-bearing classes per academic year on a space-available basis, so long as they’re not enrolled in a degree program. Courses are offered online or in person.
31. New Jersey
Rutgers University allows retired New Jersey residents 62 and older to audit courses for free in the spring and fall semesters at its Camden, New Brunswick and Newark campuses, space permitting. Current guidelines allow senior citizens to audit in-person or online classes if they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
32. New Mexico
New Mexico offers reduced tuition of just $5 per credit hour to state residents 65 and older. Online courses are available.
For-credit classes are eligible as well as auditing; senior citizens can take no more than 10 credit hours per semester. The program is offered on a space-available basis, and students are responsible for paying any additional course fees.
33. New York
Many schools offer free or reduced tuition for senior citizens. Queens College allows residents 60 and up to audit any course on a space-available basis after completing a Senior Citizen Auditor Application and paying $80 per semester. Up-to-date COVID-19 vaccinations are required to enroll.
At SUNY Purchase, New York state residents 60 and older can enroll tuition-free in a maximum of two credit-bearing, on-campus courses in which space is available. They pay a $50 audit fee, $20 ID processing fee and any course fees. In-person, online and hybrid courses are available, and COVID-19 vaccinations are required for anyone coming on campus.
34. North Carolina
Tuition and registration fees are waived for residents 65 or older attending North Carolina community colleges. Senior citizens can take up to six credit hours per semester for free. Audit options may be available at other schools.
At the University of North Carolina Wilmington, for example, senior citizens may audit classes for free after getting the instructor’s permission and submitting an application. Lab, studio, performance, distance education, independent study, internship and special topic courses are excluded. Online courses are available for those who prefer them.
35. North Dakota
Programs vary by institution in North Dakota. At Bismarck State, for example, senior citizens 65 and older can audit one course tuition-free per semester on a space-available basis. They’re still responsible for other course fees. Some online courses are available.
36. Ohio
Ohio residents at least 60 years old may attend class at any state college for free. Senior-citizen students do not receive credit and can register only on a space-available basis. They are still responsible for special assessments, such as lab fees, that may apply.
Many Ohio state colleges offer online courses, as well as in-person and hybrid.
37. Oklahoma
Oklahoma state colleges and universities waive tuition and fees for senior citizens 65 and older who wish to audit classes on a space-available basis.
38. Oregon
Oregon State University allows senior citizens at least 65 years old to audit classes for free at a maximum of eight credit hours per semester.
The University of Oregon also waives fees for seniors 65 and older auditing classes on a space-available basis.
Online course options may be offered depending on availability.
39. Pennsylvania
Clarion University offers a tuition waiver for residents 62 and up to audit classes. At Bloomsburg University, you need to be only 60 to take tuition-free classes on a space-available basis.
There can be additional benefits at the community college level: Bucks County Community College, for example, waives for-credit course tuition for seniors 65 and up so long as they register after students who are paying full tuition. Many courses are offered online, though some in-person and hybrid options are available.
40. Rhode Island
Tuition waivers can be requested from citizens over 60 at the Community College of Rhode Island. Seats are granted when there is space available.
All degree-seeking senior students must fill out a FAFSA. They also have to submit a Senior Citizens Means Test to verify they have limited income.
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to attend in-person classes. There are also online classes.
41. South Carolina
Residents 60 and above can attend classes at state schools on a credit or noncredit basis, pending space available, for free. The school must grant admission via its normal procedures.
Technology, lab and other fees are the responsibility of the student. Many South Carolina community colleges offer online courses for those interested.
42. South Dakota
Residents 65 and older can attend public universities in South Dakota at 55% of the normal cost of tuition for undergraduate or graduate in-person courses on a main university campus.
Interested adults should apply through the regular admissions system, and the school will automatically grant the discount upon admission. Student fees are not waived.
Contact your chosen university to see whether online courses are offered.
43. Tennessee
The University of Tennessee allows senior citizens to enroll in undergraduate or graduate courses for $7 per credit hour with a maximum fee of $70.
Students will still pay application and course fees. Senior citizens can choose between online courses and in-person ones.
44. Texas
A senior citizen age 65 or older can take up to six tuition-free credit hours at the University of Texas at Austin.
At the University of Texas at Dallas and Lone Star College, undergrad students 65 and older must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA to receive a tuition waiver for up to six credit hours per semester.
Check with each individual university to see which online and in-person classes are available for enrollment.
45. Utah
Utah residents age 62 and up may enroll tuition-free at a state institution, space permitting; a quarterly registration fee is required.
At the University of Utah, for example, seniors can audit most classes on a space-available basis and only have to pay a fee of $25 per semester, plus any special fees required. Call to see whether online classes are included.
46. Vermont
Vermonters over the age of 65 can audit one class per semester tuition-free on a space-available basis in the Vermont State College System. Students can take additional classes at a 50% discount of the tuition rate, either in person or online.
They’ll still have to pay administration and course fees for all classes.
47. Virginia
Under the amended terms of the Senior Citizens Higher Education Act of 1974, Virginia residents over 60 years old who earn a taxable income of less than $23,850 annually can audit up to three courses per term for free on a space-available basis at any public institution, either in person or online.
48. Washington
Institutions in Washington are required to partially or fully waive tuition fees for residents age 60 or older who are enrolled for credit on a space-available basis. Nominal fees may apply to students auditing courses.
Some schools limit senior citizens to a certain number of classes or credits; for example, Washington State University caps the waiver at six credits for the fall and spring semesters. Online programs are available.
49. West Virginia
Senior citizens 65 and older at West Virginia University seeking college credit must use the regular admissions form. Those wishing to be non-degree students pay just $5 to apply. WVU offers classes online or in person.
50. Wisconsin
Adults 60 and up may audit classes at the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus or at UW-Madison Online for free, where space is available.
51. Wyoming
At Laramie County Community College, senior citizens 60 and older pay only 20% of the resident tuition rate per credit hour, though they still need to pay any other course or online fees.
Northwest College offers adults 60 and older free tuition up to six credit hours per semester for on-site and online courses, as well as free entry to most college social, cultural and athletic events.
Another Continuing Education Option
More than 100 colleges and universities around the country offer another continuing education program for senior citizens: enrichment courses through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLI).
Prices vary depending upon the institution. Duke University, for example, has a $50 annual membership fee and then charges $50 to $175 per class. Senior citizens can choose to take classes online or in person.
OLLI classes don’t count toward a degree, but if you’re looking for personal development opportunities among older adults, these courses can provide opportunities that mix in the campus experience, too.
Contributor Catherine Hiles updated this post for 2023.
Many people think of large national banks when they think of banking. However, regional banks can often offer a more personalized and localized banking experience. They may also have lower interest rates and fees than larger banks.
In this article, we’ll examine the best regional banks in terms of customer service, fees, and interest rates. This list is a great place to start if you’re looking for a new place to do your banking or simply want to compare your current bank to others in your area.
Best Regional Banks in the West
Bank of the West
Bank of the West is a large regional bank based in San Francisco, with hundreds of locations nationwide. It offers standard deposit accounts, such as checking, savings, CDs, and money market accounts.
Checking accounts have varying terms and fees, some of which can be waived by signing up for paperless statements. The bank also has a low-interest Choice Interest Checking account and two savings accounts with fee waivers for maintaining a minimum balance.
First Interstate Bank
First Interstate Bank is the largest bank in Montana and 73rd in the US. Established in 1916, it has 313 locations.
Its headquarters are in Billings, but it has locations throughout the states of Idaho, Montana, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington and Wyoming.
Umpqua Bank
Umpqua Bank is the largest bank in Oregon and 75th in the US. Established in 1953, it has 219 locations, headquartered in Roseburg.
It offers a unique Go-To app that allows customers to text a banker for questions or advice. The bank also offers multiple checking accounts, money market accounts and CD terms, with a low deposit requirement to open a money market or savings account.
Union Bank
Union Bank is a full-service bank based in San Francisco, with over 350 branches in California, Washington and Oregon. It offers online, mobile, and telephone banking options in addition to traditional branch banking.
Products include checking, savings, money market, CDs, credit cards, mortgages, loans, insurance and investment services.
Best Regional Banks in the Southwest
BOK Financial
BOK Financial is the largest bank in Oklahoma and 55th in the US. Established in 1910, it has 118 locations and is headquartered in Tulsa. It offers a variety of financial products, including savings, checking, money market, CDs, IRAs, credit cards, and mortgages.
First National Bank Texas
First National Bank Texas (FNBT) was founded in 1901 in Killeen, Texas. Today, it serves customers at over 300 locations across Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
The bank offers a variety of personal banking products, including checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, and CDs, and more.
Frost Bank
Frost Bank is based in San Antonio, Texas. Established in 1868, it has 171 locations and 1,700 ATMs throughout Texas.
The serves customers in most of the state’s larger metro areas. It offers a range of products including checking and savings accounts, loans, investing, insurance and wealth management services to help customers manage and grow their money.
MidFirst Bank
MidFirst Bank is the largest privately owned bank in the US. It operates 75 branches in 3 states, with most located in Oklahoma, Arizona, and Colorado. Its headquarters is in Oklahoma City.
MidFirst provides a range of banking options, including multiple types of checking accounts, and the possibility to waive monthly service fees.
Best Regional Banks in the Midwest
Arvest Bank
Arvest Bank is a regional bank based in Bentonville, Arkansas, with over 240 branches in Arkansas, Kansas, Oklahoma and Missouri. It offers checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, and CDs, and its mobile banking app is highly rated in app stores. Accounts can be opened online, but only by residents of the four states the bank serves.
BMO Harris Bank
BMO Harris is the 8th largest bank in North America by assets, headquartered in Chicago and is a subsidiary of the Bank of Montreal. It has over 500 branches in Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
Fifth Third Bank
Fifth Third Bank is based in Cincinnati, serving customers in 11 states with over 1,100 branches. It offers various checking and savings accounts, money market account and a wide range of CD terms.
The Fifth Third Momentum Checking account boasts no monthly service fee and provides fee-free access to over 50,000 ATMs across the country. The bank also has low deposit requirements and 24/7 access via its highly rated mobile app.
Huntington National Bank
Huntington National Bank is a full-service bank with over 1,100 branches in 12 states, primarily in the Midwest and Southern regions. It provides a range of products and services including banking, wealth management, and insurance.
The bank offers a free checking account, and 24-hour overdraft forgiveness which allows an extra day to make deposits to avoid overdraft and return fees, and other features.
Best Regional Banks in the Southeast
Cadence Bank
Cadence Bank, a regional giant based in Tupelo, stands tall as the largest bank in Mississippi and ranks 51st nationally. It has a network of 448 locations spread across six states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas.
Cadence offers a comprehensive range of financial products, from checking and savings accounts to credit cards, lines of credit, and mortgages.
First Citizens Bank
First citizens Bank, founded in North Carolina in 1898, has a rich history of providing reliable financial services. Its offerings encompass a diverse array of products, such as checking, savings, CDs, credit cards, loans, mortgages, investments, and insurance.
With 586 branches in 22 states, the bank makes banking easy and accessible. It also offers free checking and savings account options with a low minimum deposit requirement.
SouthState Bank
SouthState Bank, the largest regional bank in Florida, was founded in 1992 in Winter Haven. With a presence in six states – Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina – the bank boasts a network of over 240 branches.
SouthState offers a wide range of banking and investment services to individuals and businesses alike.
Synovus Bank
Based in Columbus, Georgia, Synovus Bank operates 309 branches in five states – Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
The bank provides a comprehensive range of financial services, including loans, deposit products, investment services, financial planning, and wealth management, empowering its customers to reach their financial goals.
Best Regional Banks in the Northeast
Fulton Bank
Fulton Bank, based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a regional bank with a presence in 5 mid-Atlantic states – Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With over 250 branches, Fulton Bank offers an array of personal banking products, including checking, savings, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit.
M&T Bank
M&T Bank is a major regional bank headquartered in Buffalo, New York, serving customers in 13 states, with a strong presence in New York, Connecticut, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
The bank offers a wide range of financial products, including checking and savings, loans, retirement accounts, credit and debit cards, and investment services. With M&T Bank’s basic checking account, there’s no monthly fee.
Valley National Bank
Valley National Bank was established in 1927 and is headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey. It boasts 200 convenient branches across several states, including New Jersey, New York, Florida, Alabama, California, and Illinois.
The bank offers a range of checking and savings accounts, including Rewards Checking and Interest Checking.
Webster Bank
Webster Bank, based in Stamford, Connecticut, operates 177 branches across Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York. It offers a comprehensive range of financial products, including checking, savings, and money market accounts, CDs, and lending products.
With 5 different checking accounts to choose from, including an Opportunity Checking account for those seeking second-chance banking, Webster Bank caters to a wide range of banking needs.
Big Regional Banks with Locations in Multiple Regions
Citizens Bank
Citizens Bank is based in Providence, Rhode Island and is the 15th largest bank in the US. It operates over 1,000 branches across 11 states in New England, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest regions.
It offers various retail, small business and commercial banking products. The bank also has online-only savings accounts and CDs with competitive interest rates and no monthly fees.
KeyBank
Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, KeyBank operates over 1,000 full-service branches in 15 states, offering a range of banking products including personal checking, savings, money market, and CDs. The bank is committed to providing excellent customer service, with 24/7 phone support available.
Regions Bank
Regions Bank is the largest bank in Alabama, with its headquarters in Birmingham. Operating over 1,500 branches in 15 states across the South and Midwest, the bank offers 24/7 phone customer service.
In addition to traditional banking services, Regions Bank also provides convenient digital banking features, including mobile and online banking, account management, bill pay, and remote check deposit.
TD Bank
TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, New Jersey-based with a presence primarily along the East Coast in 15 states. The bank operates 1,200 branches and is the ninth-largest bank in the nation.
TD Bank offers a range of financial products including checking, savings, and money market accounts, certificates of deposits, and credit cards. Additionally, its physical locations offer extended hours to accommodate customer needs.
Truist
Truist Bank is based in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a presence in 17 states and the District of Columbia. With over 2,100 branches, the bank primarily serves customers in the Southern states but also has locations in Indiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
Truist offers a range of banking products including checking, savings, money market, CDs, credit cards, and more.
U.S. Bank
U.S. Bank it headquartered in Minneapolis, and it’s the fifth-largest bank by assets in the United States. Its services are primarily in the Western and Midwestern parts of the country with over 2,000 branches in 26 states.
U.S. Bank provides customers with a vast network of ATMs, including those in the MoneyPass network. They offer a comprehensive selection of products, such as deposit accounts and mortgages. Customers can choose to open accounts either in-person or through the bank’s online platform. Its mobile app is also highly rated.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Regional Bank
When it comes to selecting a regional bank, there are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure you make the right choice for your financial needs. These include:
Location: Ensure the bank has branches and ATMs conveniently located near your home and workplace for easy access and transactions.
Fees: Compare fees such as monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, ATM fees, and others to make sure they are reasonable and in line with other regional banks.
Interest rates: Evaluate interest rates and annual percentage yields (APYs) for checking and savings accounts, as well as loans, to get the best deal possible.
Online and mobile banking: Assess the bank’s digital offerings such as online banking and mobile app capabilities to make sure they meet your needs and are user-friendly.
Customer service: Look into the bank’s customer service reputation by reading reviews and asking others. Choose a bank with a strong reputation for assisting customers with their financial needs.
Security: Verify that the bank has robust security measures in place to protect your personal and financial information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are regional banks?
Regional banks, as per the Federal Reserve Board, are financial institutions with assets between $10 billion and $100 billion, putting them in between community banks and larger national or international banks. However, the definition may vary among different sources.
These banks serve a designated geographic region, usually within one state or a few states, and offer a variety of commercial banking services like checking accounts, savings, mortgage loans, and more.
How do regional banks differ from national banks?
National banks cater to a broad geographical area, spanning across several states and sometimes the entire country. Unlike national banks, regional banks concentrate more on meeting the requirements of their local communities. The scope of service for regional banks can greatly differ, with some serving small regions, while others offer services to larger territories.
What’s the difference between a regional bank and a community bank?
Regional banks are typically bigger and offer a wider range of services compared to community banks. They have multiple branches and ATMs across a state or region, and provide more advanced financial products.
In contrast, community banks are focused on serving the local community and are generally smaller with fewer branches and ATMs. They put a strong emphasis on personal banking services like checking and savings accounts, home loans, and consumer loans. Additionally, they have close ties to the community and often prioritize lending to small businesses and community organizations.
What are some benefits of using a regional bank?
Regional banks often provide a more personal touch and in-depth local knowledge. Additionally, they are connected to the community and offer more flexible lending options. Furthermore, their fees tend to be lower compared to bigger banks.
For those who prioritize low fees, online banks are another option to consider. These banks, also known as digital or online-only banks, have the lowest fees of all banking options, thanks to their lower overhead expenses. They pass the savings on to their customers.
Are there any downsides to using a regional bank?
Regional banks may have fewer branches and ATMs compared to big banks, which can be a disadvantage for some customers. Moreover, they may not offer as many types of accounts or financial products as large banks.
What should I look for when choosing a regional bank?
When choosing a regional bank, take into account elements like its reputation, monthly fees, and available accounts. Additionally, think about its proximity and if it provides online and mobile banking services.
Can I open an account with a regional bank if I don’t live in the region they serve?
It depends on the bank’s policies. Some regional banks may require that you live in the region they serve to open a bank account, while others may be more flexible.
How many regional banks are there in the U.S.?
Based on the Federal Reserve Board’s definition of a regional bank, of $10 billion to $100 billion in assets, there are around 120 regional banks in the U.S.
Stay in shape in Kansas City at one of the 10 best apartment gyms in the city. See which one suits your workout style here.
Known around the world for its barbeque prowess and strong connections to the roots of jazz, Kansas City is a uniquely American city. As one of the larger cities in the Midwest, Kansas City still serves as a central cultural hub to large swathes of people throughout Kansas, Missouri and the rest of the Midwest.
With hundreds of apartment buildings to choose from, it’s easy for newcomers and locals alike to get stuck choosing between a number of quality living options. It’s in these cases that renters need to turn to the amenities to make the right choice. If you’re considering an apartment that shows up on this list, you’re in luck. Below is a list of ten of the best apartment gyms in Kansas City. Find the fitness center that suits you best and take the first steps toward signing that lease today.
Source: Rent. / Two Light Luxury Apartments
Two Lights Luxury Apartments boasts one of the more beautifully designed apartment gyms in existence. Located in the Crossroads neighborhood, this large, light-filled community fitness center serves as a meeting point for many residents and is an undeniably pleasant place to get your sweat on.
Featuring cardio machines with views of the city, equipment designed to tone every upper body muscle you have and free weights for days, this gym is capable of handling even the most demanding and creative workout regimens.
Source: Rent. / Flashcube Luxury Apartments
With an indoor basketball court, tennis court, pickleball court, soccer room and climbing wall, there’s no way the fitness amenities at Flashcube Luxury Apartments were going to miss this list.
Boasting an expansive indoor sports complex that just might put your local Y to shame, the over-the-top exercise amenities don’t stop at the rec center. Also providing residents with a spin room, cardio station and well-equipped weight-lifting area, this Crossroads complex is capable of supporting an extremely active lifestyle entirely within its walls.
Source: Rent. / Second & Delaware
Located in Columbus Park and backed right up to the banks of the Missouri River, the fitness center at the Second & Delaware apartment complex perfectly caters to the active lifestyles of its resident population thanks to an industrial-style gym, yoga studio, spin room and more.
With everything from a squat rack to a rowing machine to windowfront ellipticals with views of the outside world, you’re never short on options at Second and Delaware. Whether you’re a cardio enthusiast or a casual lifter, there’s always a new opportunity for exercise waiting for you here.
Source: Rent. / West Hill Lofts
With soaring ceilings, brick walls and a Wellbeats Digital Trainer system, it’s easy to see from the jump that the West Hill Lofts gym means business. Designed to help people of all fitness approaches meet their personal goals, this fitness center is fully equipped for objectives both small and lofty.
Treadmills and ellipticals with outside views, a squat rack with enough space to make serious gains and cable machines capable of supporting a whole workout circuit on their own are just a few of the elevated features and pieces of equipment you can expect to find at this West Plaza iron jungle.
Source: Rent. / The Yards
Located right on the border of Kansas and Missouri in West Crossroads, the fitness center at The Yards, a modern apartment community, is full of futuristic fitness tech designed to make working out less of a chore than ever before.
Boasting a Fitness On-Demand® system, professional-grade exercise machinery and a serene stationary bike room that’s perfect for pedaling the stresses of the day away, this gym is all about comfort and convenience above all else. Whether you like a Sunday afternoon spin class or a Monday morning power lift, the gym at The Yards has it all.
Source: Rent. / Woodside Village
In Westwood, KS, just southwest of downtown Kansas City, is the Woodside Village apartment complex. Designed to facilitate physical fitness throughout the daily lives of its residents, the list of recreational amenities here is certainly not short.
Boasting a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts and a state-of-the-art fitness center, this complex provides everything residents need to live life to the fullest. At these apartments, you can start your day with some heavy lifting in the light-filled fitness center and cap it off by soaking the soreness away in the spa.
Source: Rent. / Roaster’s Block
Located in a beautiful brick building near Westside North, the fitness center at Roaster’s Block has an industrial vibe that encourages hard work and maximum effort. With everything from a pullup station to pulldown machines and all the cardio equipment you could ever need, this gym has all residents could want.
Also offering personal training services, HIIT classes, yoga sessions and more, the fitness center at Roaster’s Block is set up with a stellar support network so all can feel comfortable and confident in reaching their personal workout goals.
Source: Rent. / The Ambassador
Originally constructed as the largest hotel in Kansas City, The Ambassador has since gracefully transitioned into a luxury apartment complex in Central Hyde Park. Small but mighty, the fitness center at The Ambassador is all about making the most of its more modest footprint.
This fitness center is equipped with only the highest quality machinery and adorned with numerous flatscreen TVs and free weights. What this gym may lack in size, it more than makes up for with quality. Find yourself here at the beginning of a long day or at the end of a tough week and let the worries melt away (along with a few pounds).
Source: Rent. / Thrive at Creekside
Located north of Downtown in scenic Parkville, the fitness center at Thrive at Creekside is equipped with the cardio equipment you need to get marathon-ready in months and the weight machines you’ll need to bulk up beyond recognition if that’s what you’re looking for.
Whether you’re starting the day with a half hour on the rowing machine or wrapping up a long week with an even longer stretching session, this fitness center provides residents with all the essentials they need to go beyond and become their best selves.
Source: Rent. / Trinity Woods
East of Kansas City in Independence is one of the more luxurious apartment fitness centers in the KC area. Trinity Woods is an elevated apartment community with a fitness center that will force you to forget the monthly memberships.
Boasting Olympic weights, Technogym equipment, a dedicated spin room and fitness programs on demand, this gym perfectly caters to every type of fitness goal. From total body transformation to simply staying in decent shape, everything is possible at this well-equipped gym.
Stay in shape in Kansas City
Staying in shape can be difficult no matter where you call home. That said, if you’re lucky enough to sign a lease at one of the Kansas City apartment buildings listed above, you’re already well ahead of the curve when it comes to accomplishing your fitness goals.
Leverage the amenities at your disposal and deepen your appreciation for physical fitness in your new apartment home gym.
The Best States for Higher Education in 2018 – SmartAsset
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It’s hard to overstate the value of an education. According to Census Bureau data from 2016, the average worker with a bachelor’s degree earns $51,600 per year. That is roughly $22,000 more than the average worker with a high school diploma earns and $30,000 more than a worker without a high school diploma earns. But as everyone knows, getting an education can be expensive and is getting increasingly so. From 2006 to 2016, the cost of college tuition and fees increased by 63%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Compounding that problem is the fact that many students take on massive amounts of student debt to pay for college, hindering their ability to save for retirement or buy a home. However, in some states, public colleges are still affordable and offer students excellent earning opportunities. Below we rank the best states for higher education.
In order to come up with our rankings we looked at five factors. Specifically, we compared the states across student-to-faculty ratio, average net price, undergraduate graduation rate, in-state attendance rate and the 20-year return on investment. Check out our data and methodology below to see where we got our data and how we put it together.
This is SmartAsset’s fourth annual study on the best states for a higher education. Read the 2017 study here.
Key Findings
Consistency – For the third year in a row, Virginia and California occupy the top two spots. Eight of last year’s top 10 also ranked in the top 10 this year.
Mixed bag – No one area dominates more than another. Some Northeast states, like New York and New Jersey, rank well, as do some Southern states like Virginia and North Carolina. California also gets an A grade while in the Midwest, Michigan secures a top 10 spot.
1. Virginia
This makes four years in a row in which Virginia was either the best or second-best state for higher education. Schools in this state have a graduation rate of 71%, or second-highest in our study, and offer their students great long-term value. Our data shows that schools in Virginia offer a 20-year average return on investment of $417,711, or fourth-most in the study.
Attending college in Virginia is on the more expensive side, this state ranks in the bottom 10 for average net price.
2. California
California once again secured a spot among the top two. This state ranked well in all but one of our metrics. Schools here have the second-highest 20-year return on investment and the fifth-lowest average net price.
However, for students who prefer an intimate class experience California may not have the best options. According to our data, California has a student-to-faculty ratio above 24, the highest in our study.
3. Wyoming
The Cowboy State takes third. This state ranks highly because of how many locals attend state colleges. Around 62% of high school graduates in Wyoming end up attending local 2-year or 4-year institutions. For that metric, Wyoming ranks 10th.
Wyoming schools also have low student-to-faculty ratios. Its student-to-faculty ratio is 14, fifth-best in our study. With some improvement in the graduation rate (currently 55%), Wyoming might be able to climb into one of the top two spots.
4. Iowa
No public colleges do a better job at graduating its students than Iowa. Overall, 72% of students in public colleges in Iowa graduate, the highest rate in our study. Students tend to do well once they graduate, as well. The 20-year return on investment for graduates of public schools in Iowa is $369,400, ninth most in the country.
5. North Carolina
Once again North Carolina scores well in in higher education. Not only does North Carolina score well in this study, but this state contains many of the best community colleges in the country.
On average, attending one of North Carolina’s public colleges is fairly affordable. The average net price for the 2015-2016 school year, according to The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, was $11,500. North Carolina ranks 12th in that metric. Most students who attend North Carolina public colleges graduate, according to our data. North Carolina public colleges and universities had an average graduation rate of just under 61%.
6. Connecticut
Connecticut ranked sixth this year, jumping half a dozen spots from last year. Public colleges and universities in this state have some of the lowest student-to-faculty ratios in the country. At 13.9 only three states have a lower student-to-faculty ratio than Connecticut. But perhaps more important is the graduation rate. Around 66% of students at public institutions in Connecticut graduate, the fourth-highest rate.
Connecticut’s score is hurt by the fact that most graduates of Connecticut high school decide to go out of state for their higher education.
The newfound money that many college graduates come into following their exodus from school can be daunting to manage. In turn, we’ve outlined the top financial advisor firms in Connecticut.
7. New Jersey
The Garden State takes the seventh spot. Public colleges and universities in New Jersey do a successful job graduating their students. Our data shows that the average New Jersey public institution has a graduation rate around 68%, the third-highest rate in our study.
New Jersey schools also have a low student-to-faculty ratio and a better than average 20-year return on investment.
8. Delaware
Delaware secured another top 10 spot in this study. This makes four years running where the Delaware state university system was rated in the top 10.
What makes attending Delaware state institutions so good for its students is the long-term value. According to our data, the average Delaware public college or university has a 20-year return on investment of $423,000. Combine that with Delaware having the seventh-lowest student-to-faculty ratio and it’s no surprise this state ranks so high.
9. New York
New York has some good all-around scores. The average public college or university has a student-to-faculty ratio of 15.7 and an average net price of just under $12,000. Both of those scores are in the top 20. New York has a graduation rate of 55% and 20-year return on investment of $356,000, also two scores which beat the majority of other states.
In fact the state only has a below-average score in one metric: percent of high school graduates who attend an in-state public college or university.
10. Michigan
Our list ends in the Great Lake State. Overall Michigan gets a B+. This state’s public institutions seem to be well-loved by its high school graduates. According to our data, around 62% of Michigan high school graduates went on to attend one of Michigan’s 2-year or 4-year public colleges. While Michigan had no top 10 scores it also had no below-average grades.
Data and Methodology
To find the best states for higher education, SmartAsset looked at data for the following five metrics:
Undergraduate graduation rate. Data comes from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Data is for the 2015-2016 school year.
Average net price. This metric considers the average yearly price for first-time, full-time undergraduate students. Data comes from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and is for the 2015-2016 school year.
Student-faculty ratio. This metric also comes from the IPEDS data center. It’s from the 2016-2017 school year.
20-year return on investment. This is the difference between 20 years of median pay for a graduate with a bachelor’s degree minus the costs for attending the higher education institution for four years and 24 years of median pay for a high school graduate. Data comes from Payscale.
In-state attendance rate. This is the percentage of students who graduated from high school in 2015 who went on to attend an in-state college. Data comes from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education.
Data for metrics were found using a weighted average of the schools in each state.
We ranked each state in the five metrics. We then found each state’s average ranking, giving a double weighting to graduation rate. Using this average ranking we created our final score. Our score was graded on a curve with the top 15% of states getting an A and the bottom 15% getting an F.
Tips for Managing Student Debt
Deduct it from your taxes. While there was some talk of eliminating the student loan interest deduction the new Trump tax plan left it in place. This means you can deduct up to $2,500 in student loan interest payments from your taxable income.
Refinance. If you find yourself struggling to pay off your student debt, one option may be to refinance. If you refinance all your student loans it is possible to get access to lower rates or to extend the life of the loan to lower monthly costs.
Derek Miller, CEPF®
Derek Miller is a graduate of the University of Edinburgh where he studied economics. He is passionate about using data to help people make better financial decisions. Derek is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance® (CEPF®) and a member of the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing. He is a data journalist whose expertise is in finding the stories within the numbers. Derek’s writing has been featured on Yahoo, AOL, and Huffington Post. He believes the biggest financial mistake people make is waiting too late to save for retirement and missing out on the wonders of compounding interest. Derek lives in Brooklyn.