Best High-Yield Savings Accounts of 2026
High-yield savings accounts currently offer APYs of 4–5%, compared to the national average of 0.46%. Here's how to find the right one for your situation.
Quick Picks
See How Much You Could Earn
Use our Savings Interest Calculator to compare how much different APYs earn on your balance over time.
How We Evaluate Savings Accounts
Top High-Yield Savings Accounts
Marcus by Goldman Sachs
Best for: Savers who want simplicity and a trusted brand
- No minimum balance
- No fees
- Strong brand reputation
- Easy online interface
- –No checking account
- –No ATM card
Ally Bank Online Savings
Best for: People who want a full online banking experience
- No minimum balance
- Savings buckets feature
- 24/7 customer support
- Linked checking available
- –APY slightly below top competitors
SoFi High-Yield Savings
Best for: People who can set up direct deposit
- Highest APY with direct deposit
- No fees
- Checking + savings combo
- Member perks
- –Best APY requires direct deposit setup
Discover Online Savings
Best for: Existing Discover customers or those who value service
- No fees
- No minimum balance
- Strong customer service
- Easy transfers
- –APY not the highest available
American Express High Yield Savings
Best for: AmEx cardholders who want to consolidate banking
- Trusted brand
- No fees
- No minimum
- Good mobile app
- –No ATM access
- –No checking account
What Is a High-Yield Savings Account?
A high-yield savings account (HYSA) is a savings account that pays a significantly higher interest rate than a traditional savings account. While the national average savings rate hovers around 0.46% APY, high-yield accounts at online banks typically offer 4–5% APY — more than 10x the national average.
The higher rates are possible because online banks have lower overhead costs than traditional brick-and-mortar banks. They pass those savings on to customers in the form of better interest rates.
HYSAs are best used for your emergency fund, short-term savings goals (vacation, car down payment), or any money you want to keep liquid but still earning a meaningful return. For long-term wealth building, investing in a diversified portfolio typically outperforms even the best savings account rates.