Top Traditional Savings Accounts for 2025

Choosing the right savings account is essential for managing your money effectively. While high-yield online savings accounts offer attractive interest rates, traditional savings accounts provide benefits such as in-person banking, enhanced customer service, and easy access to ATMs.

Traditional savings accounts are ideal for individuals who value personal banking services, need a linked checking account, or prefer the reliability of a well-established financial institution. In this guide, we’ll explore the best traditional savings accounts for 2025, their features, benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Why Choose a Traditional Savings Account?

While online banks often offer higher APYs, traditional savings accounts provide several advantages that make them a solid choice for certain savers.

1. In-Person Banking

Traditional savings accounts allow access to physical bank branches, making it easier to deposit checks, withdraw cash, or seek financial advice from a banker.

2. Easy Access to ATMs

Most large banks have nationwide ATM networks, allowing customers to withdraw funds or check balances without additional fees.

3. Linked Checking and Savings Accounts

Many traditional banks offer seamless integration between checking and savings accounts, making it easy to transfer funds and avoid overdraft fees.

4. Stability and Trust

Well-established banks provide a sense of security and reliability, with FDIC insurance coverage ensuring deposits are protected up to 0,000 per account holder.

Best Traditional Savings Accounts for 2025

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the top traditional savings accounts offered by major banks this year:

1. Wells Fargo Way2Save® Savings Account

APY: 0.15%

Minimum Balance to Earn APY: $300

Monthly Fee: (waived if you maintain a 0 minimum balance or set up a automatic transfer from a linked checking account)

Pros:
✔ Automatic savings options help build a strong savings habit
✔ Nationwide access to over 4,700 branches
✔ Online and mobile banking features available

Cons:
✖ Low interest rate compared to online savings accounts
✖ Monthly fee unless waived

Best For: Customers who want automated savings features and in-person banking options.

2. Chase Savings℠ Account

APY: 0.01%

Minimum Balance to Earn APY: $300

Monthly Fee: $5 (waived with a $300 daily balance, $25 automatic transfer, or linked Chase checking account)

Pros:
✔ Access to 16,000 Chase ATMs and 4,700 branches
✔ Overdraft protection when linked to a Chase checking account
✔ User-friendly mobile banking app

Cons:
✖ Very low APY
✖ High minimum balance requirement for fee waiver

Best For: Customers who already bank with Chase and want seamless integration between checking and savings.

3. Bank of America Advantage Savings

APY: 0.01%

Minimum Balance to Earn APY: $500

Monthly Fee: $8 (waived if you maintain a $500 minimum balance, are a Preferred Rewards member, or are a student under 24)

Pros:
✔ Keep the Change® feature rounds up debit purchases and transfers the difference to savings
✔ Access to 17,000 ATMs and 4,300 branches nationwide
✔ No monthly fee for students under 24

Cons:
✖ Low APY
✖ Higher minimum balance requirement than some competitors

Best For: Bank of America customers who want access to a strong ATM network and automated savings tools.

4. Citibank Savings Plus Account

APY: 0.04%

Minimum Balance to Earn APY: $500

Monthly Fee: $4.50 (waived with a $500 minimum balance)

Pros:
✔ Slightly higher APY than some competitors
✔ Access to 65,000 fee-free ATMs
✔ Citi® Accelerate Savings option available in select areas

Cons:
✖ Fewer physical branches compared to Wells Fargo or Chase
✖ Requires a linked Citi checking account for maximum benefits

Best For: Those who want a slightly better interest rate while maintaining branch access.

5. U.S. Bank Standard Savings Account

APY: 0.01%

Minimum Balance to Earn APY: $300

Monthly Fee: $4 (waived with a $300 daily balance, $1,000 average monthly balance, or by being under 18/over 65)

Pros:
✔ Over 3,000 branches and 4,800 ATMs nationwide
✔ Strong online and mobile banking services
✔ Multiple ways to waive monthly fees

Cons:
✖ Low interest rate
✖ Limited availability in some states

Best For: Individuals who prefer a mix of online banking and in-person services with low maintenance fees.

Comparison Table: Best Traditional Savings Accounts

Bank & Account Name	APY	Min. Balance for APY	Monthly Fee	Fee Waiver Options	ATM & Branch Access	Best For
Wells Fargo Way2Save	0.15%	$300	$5	$300 balance or $25 auto transfer	4,700 branches & ATMs	Automated savings
Chase Savings℠	0.01%	$300	$5	$300 balance, $25 transfer, or linked checking	16,000 ATMs, 4,700 branches	Existing Chase customers
BofA Advantage Savings	0.01%	$500	$8	$500 balance, Preferred Rewards, or student status	17,000 ATMs, 4,300 branches	Keep the Change® users
Citi Savings Plus	0.04%	$500	$4.50	$500 balance	65,000 ATMs, limited branches	Citi customers seeking higher APY
U.S. Bank Standard Savings	0.01%	$300	$4	$300 balance, $1,000 avg. balance, or under 18/65+	3,000 branches, 4,800 ATMs	Low-fee savings

How to Choose the Right Traditional Savings Account

When selecting a savings account, consider the following factors:

1. Fees and Minimum Balance Requirements

Many traditional savings accounts charge monthly fees that can be avoided by maintaining a certain balance. Choose an account where you can comfortably meet the fee waiver requirements.

2. ATM and Branch Accessibility

If you value in-person banking, ensure the bank has branches and ATMs in your area to avoid unnecessary fees.

3. Savings Features

Some banks offer automated savings tools, round-up features, and overdraft protection that can help you build your savings over time.

4. APY (Interest Rate)

Although traditional savings accounts generally offer low interest rates, some accounts provide slightly better returns. If earning interest is a priority, compare APYs carefully.

5. Relationship Benefits

Many banks offer fee waivers and perks if you have a checking account or credit card with them. If you already bank with a specific institution, bundling your accounts may save you money.

Final Thoughts

While traditional savings accounts may not offer the highest interest rates, they provide convenience, security, and accessibility that online banks may lack. If you value in-person banking, ATM access, and strong customer service, a traditional savings account can be a great choice.

Choosing the right account depends on your financial habits, whether you prioritize low fees, easy access, or special savings features. Compare your options carefully and pick the one that best suits your needs.