High-yield savings accounts continue to deliver outstanding returns, with high APY levels rising to near record levels. As of October 16, 2025, leading online banks are offering interest rates of up to 5.00% year over year, declining only slightly as the Federal Reserve lowers interest rates. This is much better than average 0.40% my dad, According to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)..
Banks and credit unions are constantly adjusting their annual yields (APYs) as markets react to Federal Reserve policy and inflation data, so staying informed can make a real difference. Here are today’s best savings rates — and what you should know before transferring your money.
💰 Today’s best savings ratesAt a glance
Here are the best savings account rates at banks and credit unions today:
|
Bank or credit union |
Highest APY |
Balance requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
Farrow |
5.00% |
On the first $5000 |
|
Consumer Credit Union |
5.00% |
On the first $10,000 |
|
Beebank |
4.60% |
$0
|
|
Axos Bank |
4.51% |
$0 |
|
AlumniFi |
4.50% |
$100,000 for 4.50%, $25,000 for 4.25%, and $0 for 4.00%. |
1. Faro –Varo is a bank that offers up to 5.00% APY on your first $5,000 with qualifying direct deposits. Read our full Varo review.
2. Consumers Credit Union –CCU offers up to 5.00% APY on your checking account for the first $10,000. Earning requirements are graded. Read our full Consumer Credit Union review.
3. Paybank –This is the online brand of Intercredit Bank, NA and offers 4.60% APY with no monthly maintenance fees and no minimum balance. Read our full Pibank review.
4. AXOS BANK –Axos Bank ONE Savings offers a boosted rate of 4.51% when you receive qualifying monthly direct deposits totaling at least $1,500 and maintain an average daily balance of $1,500 in your Axos ONE® checking account. Read our full Axos Bank review.
5. Aluminify– AlumniFi is the online brand of Michigan State University Federal Credit Union and offers this tiered savings account that earns up to 4.50% APY. Read our full AlumniFi review.
You can find a complete list of the best high-yield savings accounts here >>
How do high-yield savings accounts work and why are interest rates important?
High-yield savings accounts work just like traditional savings accounts, but pay a much higher annual percentage yield (APY) — often 10 to 15 times more. You can see how these rates compare to the savings rates of the 10 largest banks in America – and these rates put them to shame.
“Even with the Fed lowering interest rates, APY savings at the best online banks are still much higher than traditional options. Savers can still find interest rates above 4%, but expect rates to trend lower until early 2026.-Robert Farrington
The banks and credit unions on this list typically have above-average interest rates, so even if the Fed cuts rates and these accounts lower interest rates, you’ll still come out on top.
For example, a $10,000 balance earning 4.00% APY will generate about $400 in interest per year, compared to less than $20 at a 0.20% interest rate at a big bank. This gap makes it worth regularly tracking price changes and switching institutions if the current bank ceases to remain competitive.
What to know before opening an account
Before opening a new account, review the key details that determine how much you’ll earn — and how easy it is to access your money.
- Watch for offered or promotional prices: APYs can go up or down at any time. But a strong introductory rate does not guarantee long-term performance. None of the prices mentioned here are introductory, but some referral codes may be temporary prices only.
- Transport limits: Federal rules no longer cap savings withdrawals at six per month, but many banks still impose limits.
- safety: Make sure the institution is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or NCUA, which protects up to $250,000 per depositor or per bank or credit union.
- access: Many of the highest-yielding accounts are available online only. Make sure you can deposit via the mobile app and link external accounts to facilitate transfers.
These details help you separate high-performing savings options from accounts that look attractive but may have hidden restrictions or slower rate adjustments.
How we track and check prices
in University investorOur goal is to help you make smart, confident decisions about your money. To create this list, our editorial team reviews savings account rates daily across more than 50 banks, credit unions, and fintech companies. We verify data using each organization’s official website, price disclosure, and regulatory filings.
Only accounts available to US consumers and insured by the FDIC or NCUA are included.
Our coverage is Independent and editorially driven –We never arrange accounts based on compensation. Although we may earn a referral fee when you open an account through certain links, this happens no Influencing our recommendations or reviews. Our opinions are our own, based on a consistent evaluation of ease of use, fees, returns, and customer experience.
Frequently asked questions
How often do savings account rates change?
Banks can adjust rates daily or weekly based on market conditions.
Are online banks safe?
Yes – as long as they are FDIC insured. Check coverage on FDIC’s BankFind website..
Is interest on savings accounts taxable?
Yes. You will receive a 1099-INT if you earn $10 or more in interest.
Should I move my money if prices fall?
It depends on the difference in APY and your conversion limits, and frequent price chasing can reduce returns if conversions take time.
Editor: Colin Greaves
Reviewed by: Rachel Hawley
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