Best High-Yield Savings Accounts in the USA (2025 Guide) — Updated Nov 30, 2025
Find the top savings accounts offering the highest APY today, plus who each account is best for, required conditions, and quick tips to get the rate.
Last updated: November 30, 2025
Why this guide matters
High-yield savings accounts are a low-risk way to earn meaningful interest on cash. Rates change frequently, so this guide highlights accounts with competitive APYs, no or low fees, FDIC insurance, and user-friendly banking experiences.
Quick Comparison — Top Picks
| Varo Savings | Up to 5.00% APY (with qualifying activity) |
| Axos Bank High-Yield Savings | 4.51% APY |
| Newtek Bank High-Yield | 4.35% APY |
| UFB / Peak-style Online Savings | 4.20% APY |
| American Express High Yield | 3.40% APY |
How to choose the right account
- APY terms: Check whether the advertised APY requires direct deposit, minimum monthly activity, or a balance cap.
- Fees: Avoid accounts with monthly maintenance fees that erode interest.
- Minimums: Some high APYs require a minimum balance or initial deposit.
- Insurance: Ensure the account is FDIC-insured.
- Access & UX: Good mobile apps and easy transfers matter for everyday use.
Top Accounts — Detailed Breakdown
Varo Savings
APY: Up to 5.00% (qualifying conditions apply)
- Very high promotional APY when conditions are met
- No monthly fees
- Excellent mobile experience
- Top rate requires qualifying activity (e.g., recurring deposits or spending)
- Rate can change with little notice
Axos Bank — High-Yield Savings
APY: 4.51% APY
- Consistently competitive APY
- No monthly maintenance fee on many accounts
- Good stability for long-term savers
- Mobile app functional but can be less polished than fintech apps
Newtek Bank — High-Yield Option
APY: 4.35% APY
- Competitive rate with straightforward terms
- No monthly fees on many plans
- Less well known among mainstream retail customers
UFB / Peak-style Online Savings
APY: 4.20% APY
- High APY and often low or no minimum
- Good for larger balances seeking steady returns
- Some sites have basic UX or limited branch access (online-only)
American Express High Yield Savings
APY: 3.40% APY
- Trusted brand & simple terms
- Reliable online banking and FDIC insurance
- APY is lower than promotional fintech offers
Tips to Maximize Your Return
- Meet any qualifying deposit/activity requirements to secure the advertised APY.
- Compare effective APY after fees and balance caps.
- Consider splitting savings across accounts if you want both high APY and easy access.
- Watch for promotional end dates — set a calendar reminder to reassess rates.
Note on Rates
APYs change frequently. The rates listed here reflect competitive options commonly available as of Nov 30, 2025. Always confirm the current APY, terms, and any qualifying requirements on the bank’s official site before opening an account.
