PM Images/GettyImages; Illustration by Hunter Newton/Bankrate
Credit unions are not-for-profit, member-owned institutions that commonly offer savings accounts with above-average rates, low minimum deposit requirements and low (or no) fees. While some credit unions restrict membership to those of a certain location or occupation, others make it easy for anyone to join nationwide.
While the rate offerings from some credit unions won’t beat the top-notch rates of many online-only banks’ high-yield savings accounts, a credit union may provide more personalized service and perks like lower loan rates. That’s why it can be smart to include credit unions when you’re searching for the best savings account to fit your needs.
Below, you’ll find Bankrate’s list of the credit union savings accounts with the highest annual percentage yields (APYs). All are federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). Included are credit unions that have open membership policies that allow anyone to join and others with restrictive membership requirements — so pay attention to see if you’d qualify to become a member.
Note: Annual percentage yields (APYs) shown are as of March 19, 2026. APYs may have changed since they were last updated and may vary by region for some products.
A closer look at the best credit union savings account rates
“Credit unions are often overlooked as a banking option. As member-owned, not-for-profit institutions, they typically pass on profits in the form of higher savings yields or lower fees. If you are looking for a banking organization that prioritizes service and community building, credit unions are a great place to start.”
— Stephen Kates, CFP, Bankrate Financial Analyst
Finding the best credit union savings rates
It’s worth taking the time to investigate the types and terms of savings accounts offered at either your local credit union or at a federal credit union with nationwide reach in which you qualify for membership.
In addition to savings accounts, consider money market accounts at credit unions. For example, Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union offers a savings account that only earns 0.30% APY. However, its Choice Money Market account earns between 1.76% APY and 2.22% APY on balances of $2,500 and above.
Credit union savings FAQs
Research methodology
Bankrate researches over 100 banks and credit unions, including some of the largest financial institutions, online-only banks, regional banks and credit unions with both open and restrictive membership policies.
The savings accounts that made this list have the highest APYs out of all the credit unions we research and survey. Learn more about how we choose the best banking products and our methodology for reviewing banks.
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