savings account for kids

Hawaii is an exciting place to call home. It offers incredible weather, scenic views, friendly people, and a slow-paced lifestyle. If you’re lucky enough to live or work in Hawaii, you might be looking for the best banks in the state.

While the Aloha State has fewer banks than other states, there are still plenty of reputable, member FDIC options available to you.

12 Best Banks in Hawaii

To make your search for a bank a bit easier, we’ve done some research and compiled this list of the best banks in Hawaii.

1. First Hawaiian Bank

First Hawaiian Bank, the oldest bank in the state, holds the distinction of having the most branches in Hawaii. This makes it a convenient choice for many people looking to open a checking account, as it provides three different options.

Their first option, Pure Checking, offers a straightforward, fee-free experience, complete with a complimentary debit card. The second, Priority Banking Gold, expands on these features by offering free checks and online bill pay, as well as discounts on loans.

For those seeking the most benefits, the Priority Banking Platinum provides an extensive list of perks, including a credit card with unlimited rewards and cash back, travel points, and no restrictions on redemption dates.

Beyond checking accounts, First Hawaiian Bank also caters to various other personal banking needs. They offer savings accounts, mortgage services, and wealth management solutions, among other things.

2. SoFi

SoFi serves as a top-notch alternative to traditional banking, catering to individuals seeking the convenience and flexibility of online banking. The SoFi Checking & Savings account offers a unique combination of checking account accessibility and high-yield savings account returns in a single, streamlined account.

There is no minimum balance requirement, no monthly fees, and no overdraft fees, positioning SoFi as a cost-effective solution for a broad spectrum of users. There’s also an enticing offer of earning up to $250 with qualifying direct deposits.

One of the most compelling aspects of SoFi is the impressive interest rates it offers. The savings account yields a 4.30% APY, while checking account balances earn 1.20% APY, both rates far outpacing those offered by most traditional banks. What’s more, deposits are insured by the FDIC up to $2 million, providing an added layer of financial security.

With SoFi Checking & Savings, accessing your money is both straightforward and convenient. Over 55,000 Allpoint® Network ATMs across the globe offer fee-free withdrawals, ensuring you can easily access your money whenever you need it.

3. Ally Bank

Ally Bank is an online bank that serves residents in every state, including Hawaii. It’s worth considering if you’re seeking an interest bearing checking account or competitive rates on high yield savings accounts, CDs, and money market accounts.

While deposit accounts are Ally’s bread and butter, the bank also offers mortgages, auto refinancing, and investment products. As an Ally account holder, you won’t have to worry about any monthly fees or minimum opening deposits.

Since Ally is an online-only bank, there are no local branches in Hawaii. Fortunately, it’s part of the Allpoint ATM network that will give you free access to more than 43,000 Allpoint ATMs. If you do use an out-of-network ATM, the bank will reimburse you up to $10 per month.

4. First American Trust

First American Trust operates one branch in Honolulu. If you have a particular interest in wealth planning, it should definitely be on your radar. It provides several wealth planning services, such as financial planning, retirement planning, and estate planning for individuals and families.

Its advisors can also help you set up a trust and protect your greatest assets. Additionally, First American Trust is a great resource if you’d like to build a diversified investment portfolio.

5. Bank of Hawaii

Headquartered in Honolulu, Bank of Hawaii is a regional bank and the second-oldest bank in the state. It serves local communities with a comprehensive suite of products and services as well as sponsorships and volunteerism. The bank’s lineup of personal banking products includes checking accounts, savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), credit cards, personal loans, and insurance.

In addition, it supports small business owners with business deposit accounts, business credit cards, merchant services, and small business loans. The bank also specializes in investment services and long-term financial planning to help you meet your personal finance goals. If you’re interested in Bank of Hawaii, you can chat with a banker online or in-person at a local branch.

6. Central Pacific Bank

Central Pacific Bank has been around since 1954 and has physical locations in Hawaii, Oahu, Maui, and Kauai as well as mobile banking services. It was originally founded to help immigrants build a safe life.

Today, the Hawaii bank offers a wide range of products and services to individuals and small businesses in the Aloha State. Central Pacific Bank stands out for its diverse savings account options, high rates on CDs, and low minimum balance requirements.

It also provides personalized, high quality wealth planning services from a team of wealth advisors. You can download the bank’s mobile app to pay bills, send money through Zelle, check your online statements, set notifications, track your budget, and keep tabs on your financial activity.

7. CIT Bank

CIT Bank is a digital bank with several attractive products for Hawaii residents. Savings Connect is a savings account that offers a competitive interest rate you might not be able to find elsewhere.

Another savings account you may want to consider at CIT Bank is the Savings Builder. While the Savings Builder has a lower annual percentage yield or APY than Savings Connect, it can encourage you to save as you must deposit at least $100 per month from your paycheck or elsewhere to secure the highest APY.

Unlike many brick-and-mortar financial institutions, CIT Bank doesn’t charge monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, ATM fees, or excessive transaction fees. You can open a new account and manage it via the online portal or mobile app. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact phone support on weekdays and Saturdays during select hours.

8. Hawaii National Bank

Hawaii National Bank is a local bank that made its debut in 1960 and has branch locations in Oahu, Maui, and Hilo. It offers several checking accounts, including the Household Checking, Personal Checking, 55+ Checking, Super NOW, and VIP Money Market Deposit. Even though some checking accounts come with monthly fees, the bank may waive them if you maintain a certain balance.

Savings account options include the traditional Personal Savings account with a variable, competitive interest rate, Kids’ Savings account for kids ages 5 to 17, and Christmas Savings account that can help you save for the holiday season.

In addition to checking accounts and savings accounts, you may turn to Hawaii National Bank for personal loans, credit cards, home loans, CDs, and retirement accounts. The bank also serves small business owners with deposit accounts, business loans, and commercial mortgages.

9. American Savings Bank

Known as the third-largest bank in Hawaii, American Savings Bank serves the Aloha State with a wide range of offerings. You can choose from three checking accounts, six savings accounts, and several credit cards with cash back rewards or points. American Savings Bank also offers CDs, student loans, mortgages, and credit cards.

If you open a checking account, you’ll reap the benefits of Overdraft Courtesy, which protects you from overdrafts that may occur from checks and electronic payments. Additionally, the bank’s advisors can assist you with investments and insurance.

If you become an American Savings customer, you may take advantage of online banking, which allows for mobile check deposit, automatic bill pay, Zelle payments, eStatements, and more.

10. Synchrony Bank

Synchrony Bank is an online bank you might want to explore as a Hawaii resident. With Synchrony, you can expect high interest rates on savings accounts and CDs, no monthly fees, a variety of credit card options from popular retailers, and reimbursements for out-of-network ATM access.

If you join the Synchrony Bank Perks Rewards program, you can earn elite status if you meet certain criteria. You’ll reach Diamond status, which is the top level if you deposit more than $250,000 or stay with the bank for five years. This status comes with perks like three free wire transfers per statement cycle and unlimited reimbursements for domestic ATMs.

11. Territorial Savings Bank

Territorial Savings Bank has served Hawaii customers since its inception in 1921. If you open a checking account, you’ll be able to earn interest as long as you deposit $100.

The bank also offers numerous CDs with competitive interest rates, special mortgage rates for first time homeowners, and discounts from local merchants, like hotels, car rental companies, and restaurants.

If you’re a small business owner, you may select from a number of business deposit accounts, business credit cards, and business loans.

12. Finance Factors

Headquartered in Honolulu, Finance Factors has 13 branches throughout the Aloha State. The bank’s deposit products are savings accounts, CDs, and retirement accounts.

It also specializes in a wide range of home loans like conventional mortgages, government-backed mortgages, jumbo mortgages, and investor mortgages. You can stop into a local branch or log into the online portal to manage your account.

Bottom Line

As you can see, there are a variety of banks in the Aloha State. Before you move forward with one, it’s a good idea to weigh the pros and cons of all your options. Factors like your particular banking needs and whether you prefer an online or in-person banking experience will help you make the best choice for your unique situation. Good luck with your search for the best bank in Hawaii.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest bank in Hawaii?

First Hawaiian Bank holds the title as the largest bank in Hawaii, establishing a significant presence with a total of 49 branches scattered across the state. Founded in 1858, it boasts a long history and deep roots in the local community.

Should I choose an online bank or a traditional bank in Hawaii?

An online bank is your best bet if your goal is to land the best interest rate and lowest fees. However, if personalized service is important to you, you’d likely be better off with a traditional bank. Fortunately, most traditional banks offer mobile apps and online portals.

Is a credit union a good option in Hawaii?

If you find a credit union with the ideal loan or the products and services you need and qualify for membership, you may want to join it. But you may find a wider range of offerings at a bank.

Why are there no national banks in Hawaii?

National banks aren’t in the Aloha State due to its small population and the high cost of real estate. Smaller banks are your only option if you live or work in Hawaii. The good news is you’ll find many local banks that offer just as many products and services as big banks.