South & West: BBVA Compass
This post was updated on Nov. 9, 2015 to reflect additional information about the account.
WHY IT'S A WINNER
BBVA Compass’s standout checking account offers some interest and reimburses two ATM fees per month if you stray out of network. Plus, the bank’s ClearChoice money market account offers a striking 1.1% interest rate on balances of $10,000 or more if you open an account online.
Caveat
The standout account isn’t great for foreign travelers, charging high fees for overseas ATM withdrawals (1%) and debit-card purchases (3%).
Branches
672 in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, New Mexico, and Texas
Standout Account
ClearChoice Premium Checking
Maintenance fee: $15
How to waive the fee: Keep a combined $5,000 daily balance.
Outside ATM fee: $0 and reimbursement for up to two third-party ATM fees each month
Interest on $5,000: 0.03%
Here are Money's picks for the Best Regional Banks of 2015-2016:
- Midwest: FirstMerit
- Northeast: First Niagara
- Southeast & Southwest: First Citizens
- Multiple Regions: Capital One