The credit union industry continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and growth in 2025, solidifying its position as a formidable alternative to traditional banking institutions. According to recent data from the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), federally insured credit unions now hold $2.38 trillion in total assets, representing a substantial 3.6% year-over-year increase.
This comprehensive guide examines the largest credit unions operating in the United States today, providing detailed insights into their financial strength, membership requirements, service offerings, and what sets them apart in an increasingly competitive financial landscape.
Understanding Credit Union Growth in 2025
Before diving into the rankings, it’s essential to understand the broader context of credit union performance. The industry has experienced significant transformation, with total assets increasing from $1.64 trillion in March 2020 to $2.38 trillion by the second quarter of 2025—representing an impressive 45% growth over five years.
Currently, there are 4,411 federally insured credit unions serving approximately 143.8 million members across the United States. This membership base has grown by 2.8 million members over the past year alone, demonstrating continued consumer confidence in the credit union model.
Key Industry Metrics for 2025
- Total Loans Outstanding: $1.68 trillion (3.9% year-over-year growth)
- Total Deposits: $2.02 trillion (4.5% year-over-year growth)
- Net Worth Ratio: 11.11% (up from 10.84% in 2024)
- Net Income: $17.7 billion annualized (13.2% increase from 2024)
These figures underscore the financial stability and growth trajectory of credit unions nationwide. Moreover, credit unions continue to expand their physical presence, adding branches while traditional banks consistently close locations.
Assets vs. Deposits: What’s the Difference?
When evaluating credit union size and strength, two terms frequently appear: assets and deposits. Understanding the distinction between these metrics is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Deposits represent the total amount of money that members have placed into various accounts, including:
- Checking accounts
- Savings accounts
- Money market accounts
- Certificate of deposit (CD) accounts
Assets encompass a broader financial picture, including:
- All member deposits
- Outstanding loans to members
- Investment portfolios
- Physical property and equipment
- Cash reserves
Throughout this article, credit unions are ranked by their total assets, which provides the most comprehensive measure of an institution’s size, financial capacity, and lending power.
The 10 Largest Credit Unions in America (2025 Rankings)
The following rankings reflect the most current data available from the NCUA as of the second quarter of 2025. These institutions collectively manage over $440 billion in assets and serve more than 28 million members nationwide.
1. Navy Federal Credit Union
Assets: $190 billion
Headquarters: Vienna, Virginia
Members: 14.5 million
Deposits: Over $160 billion
Branch Network: 300+ branches
Navy Federal Credit Union maintains its position as the undisputed leader in the credit union industry by a considerable margin. With assets nearly three times larger than the second-ranked institution, Navy Federal serves the largest membership base of any credit union in the nation.
Founded in 1933, Navy Federal has grown exponentially by focusing exclusively on serving the military community. The credit union offers a comprehensive suite of financial products, including high-yield savings accounts, competitive mortgage rates, no-fee checking accounts, and specialized products designed for military life, such as deployment-related benefits and military pay advances.
Membership Eligibility:
- Active duty members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, or Coast Guard
- Department of Defense civilian employees
- National Guard members
- Veterans and retirees
- Family members and household relatives of current members
Navy Federal’s commitment to the military community extends beyond basic banking services. The institution provides financial counseling, deployment preparation assistance, and specialized support for military families facing unique financial challenges. Their digital banking platform consistently ranks among the most user-friendly in the industry, offering seamless account management, mobile check deposit, and real-time transaction monitoring. For more details on how Navy Federal compares to other financial institutions, check out our comprehensive credit union comparison guide.
2. State Employees’ Credit Union
Assets: $55.3 billion
Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina
Members: 2.8 million
Deposits: Nearly $50 billion
Branch Network: 260+ branches (all in North Carolina)
Chartered in 1937, State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) holds the distinction of being the second-largest credit union in the United States and the largest state-chartered credit union. Despite its regional focus, SECU’s membership base rivals that of many national financial institutions.
The credit union operates exclusively within North Carolina, maintaining an extensive branch network that provides convenient access for members throughout the state. SECU is known for its community-focused approach, offering competitive rates on savings products and maintaining lower fees compared to many traditional banks.
Membership Eligibility:
- North Carolina state government employees
- Public school employees in North Carolina
- University of North Carolina system employees
- Community college employees in North Carolina
- National Guard members stationed in North Carolina
- Family members of current members
SECU distinguishes itself through community involvement and member-focused initiatives. The credit union operates on a philosophy of “People Helping People,” which translates into tangible benefits such as no-fee checking accounts, competitive loan rates, and extensive financial education resources. Additionally, SECU maintains a strong commitment to financial literacy, offering free workshops and counseling services to members throughout North Carolina.
3. SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union
Assets: $33.4 billion
Headquarters: Tustin, California
Members: 1.4 million
Deposits: Over $28 billion
Branch Network: 70 branches
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union climbed from fourth place in 2024 to claim the third spot in 2025, demonstrating impressive growth and operational efficiency. This California-based institution specializes in serving the educational community, offering tailored products and services that address the unique financial needs of educators and school employees.
Founded in 1934 during the Great Depression, SchoolsFirst has maintained its focus on serving those who educate California’s students. The credit union offers competitive mortgage rates, specialized educator loans, and financial products designed around the academic calendar.
Membership Eligibility:
- Current or retired California school district employees
- Current or retired charter school employees in California
- College students enrolled in eligible California education programs with student teaching requirements
- Employees of companies primarily offering services to California schools
- Family members of current members
SchoolsFirst stands out for its educator-focused approach, offering summer pay programs that help teachers manage income during school breaks, specialized loan products for continuing education, and robust financial wellness programs designed specifically for education professionals. The credit union also provides extensive scholarship programs for members and their families, reinforcing its commitment to the education community.
4. Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed)
Assets: $30.5 billion
Headquarters: McLean, Virginia
Members: 2.8 million
Deposits: $27 billion
Branch Network: 39 branches nationwide
Although Pentagon Federal Credit Union dropped from third to fourth place in the 2025 rankings, it maintains a strong position within the industry. PenFed distinguishes itself through its open membership policy—unlike many credit unions with restrictive eligibility requirements, PenFed welcomes anyone who wants to join.
Despite having fewer physical branches compared to other top-10 credit unions, PenFed has invested heavily in digital banking infrastructure, providing members with comprehensive online and mobile banking services. The credit union is particularly well-regarded for its competitive auto loan rates, cashback credit card offerings, and high-yield savings accounts.
Membership Eligibility:
- Open to everyone (no restrictions)
PenFed’s universal membership approach has enabled it to compete effectively with both traditional banks and more restrictive credit unions. The institution offers a full spectrum of financial products, including mortgages, personal loans, auto loans, credit cards, and investment services. PenFed’s credit cards are especially popular, featuring competitive rewards programs and no foreign transaction fees—making them attractive options for international travelers.
The credit union also maintains strong ties to the military community, despite its open membership policy. PenFed offers specialized products for service members and continues to support military-focused charitable initiatives and programs.
5. Boeing Employees Credit Union (BECU)
Assets: $29.4 billion
Headquarters: Tukwila, Washington
Members: 1.5 million
Deposits: Over $25 billion
Branch Network: Multiple locations across Washington state
BECU maintains its fifth-place ranking for the second consecutive year, cementing its position as Washington state’s largest credit union. Originally founded to serve Boeing employees, BECU has significantly expanded its membership eligibility over the years to serve a broader Washington state community.
The credit union has evolved from its employee-focused origins into a full-service financial institution offering comprehensive banking products, investment services, and insurance products. BECU is particularly known for its technology-forward approach, consistently introducing innovative digital banking features ahead of industry trends.
Membership Eligibility:
- Washington state residents
- Those who work in Washington state
- Students attending school in Washington state
- Residents of select counties in Oregon, Idaho, and South Carolina
- Employees or retirees of Boeing and other partner companies
- Family members of current members
BECU offers an extensive array of financial products, including checking and savings accounts, mortgages, home equity loans, auto loans, personal loans, credit cards, and business banking services. The credit union is particularly competitive in the mortgage market, offering various loan programs including first-time homebuyer assistance and renovation loans.
Additionally, BECU provides members with access to financial advisors, investment services through BECU Investment Services, and comprehensive insurance products. The credit union’s community focus is evident through its extensive financial education programs, community partnerships, and philanthropic initiatives throughout the Pacific Northwest.
6. America First Credit Union
Assets: $22.5 billion
Headquarters: Riverdale, Utah
Members: 1.4 million
Deposits: Over $19 billion
Branch Network: Extensive presence in Utah with expansion across multiple states
Founded in 1939, America First Credit Union has moved up from seventh place in 2024 to sixth place in 2025, demonstrating consistent growth and effective member service strategies. The credit union maintains its strongest presence in Utah while expanding services to members in several other western and southwestern states.
America First is known for its competitive loan rates, particularly for auto loans and mortgages, and maintains a strong commitment to community involvement. The credit union sponsors numerous community events, provides extensive scholarship programs, and supports local charitable organizations throughout its service area.
Membership Eligibility:
- Residents who live, work, worship, or attend school in Salt Lake, Utah, and Juab Counties
- Residents of designated portions of Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Idaho, and Oregon
- Employees of select partner organizations
- Family members of current members
America First offers comprehensive financial services including multiple checking account options (many with no monthly fees), competitive savings rates, mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, credit cards, business banking, and investment services. The credit union has invested significantly in digital banking technology, providing members with a robust mobile app featuring mobile deposit, account management, and person-to-person payment capabilities.
7. Mountain America Credit Union
Assets: $21.2 billion
Headquarters: Sandy, Utah
Members: 1.3 million
Deposits: Nearly $19 billion
Branch Network: 100+ branches across six states
Mountain America Credit Union made an impressive leap from ninth place in 2024 to seventh place in 2025, reflecting strong operational performance and member growth. The credit union maintains a significant presence throughout the western United States, with branches in Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, and Montana.
Mountain America differentiates itself through competitive rates, low fees, and extensive member benefits. The credit union is particularly well-regarded for its mortgage products, auto loans, and credit card offerings. Additionally, Mountain America provides members with free financial counseling, extensive educational resources, and innovative digital banking tools.
Membership Eligibility:
- Residents of select areas in Utah (primary eligibility)
- Family members and household members of current members
- Employees and volunteers of select partner organizations across the service area
Mountain America offers a comprehensive suite of financial products including multiple checking and savings account options, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, mortgages, home equity loans, auto loans, personal loans, student loans, credit cards, and business banking services. The credit union’s Perks program rewards members with exclusive discounts and benefits at local and national retailers, entertainment venues, and service providers.
The institution maintains a strong commitment to financial education, offering free financial literacy workshops, one-on-one counseling, and extensive online educational resources. Mountain America also actively supports community organizations throughout its service area, focusing particularly on education, youth development, and financial literacy initiatives.
8. Golden 1 Credit Union
Assets: $20.3 billion
Headquarters: Sacramento, California
Members: 1.1 million
Deposits: Over $18 billion
Branch Network: 63 branches throughout California
Golden 1 Credit Union, chartered in 1933, dropped from sixth place in 2024 to eighth place in 2025, though it remains a significant player in the California financial services market. The credit union serves more than one million members across California, offering competitive rates and comprehensive financial products.
Golden 1 is particularly known for its strong community presence in California, maintaining naming rights to the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento (home of the NBA’s Sacramento Kings) and supporting numerous community initiatives throughout the state. The credit union emphasizes personalized service, competitive rates, and member-focused benefits.
Membership Eligibility:
- Anyone who lives or works in California
- Family members or domestic partners of current members
- Members of Select Employee Groups (even if residing outside California)
Golden 1 provides comprehensive financial services including checking and savings accounts, money market accounts, CDs, mortgages, home equity loans, auto loans, personal loans, student loans, credit cards, and business banking services. The credit union offers several no-fee checking account options and competitive savings rates that often exceed those offered by traditional banks.
Additionally, Golden 1 has invested heavily in digital banking capabilities, offering a full-featured mobile app with remote deposit, bill pay, account alerts, and budgeting tools. The credit union also provides members with access to an extensive ATM network throughout California and nationwide through CO-OP Network partnerships.
9. Alliant Credit Union
Assets: $19.6 billion
Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
Members: 900,000
Deposits: Over $16 billion
Branch Network: Online-only (no physical branches)
Alliant Credit Union moved down one position from eighth in 2024 to ninth in 2025. However, the credit union continues to distinguish itself as a leading digital-first financial institution. Unlike traditional credit unions with extensive branch networks, Alliant operates entirely online, allowing it to offer highly competitive rates by maintaining lower operational costs.
Alliant is consistently ranked among the best online banks and credit unions for its high-yield savings accounts, competitive checking account rates, and low-fee structure. The credit union’s digital-only approach appeals particularly to tech-savvy consumers who prefer managing finances remotely and value higher interest rates over physical branch access.
Membership Eligibility:
- Current or retired employees of partner companies and organizations
- Residents or workers in communities near Alliant’s Chicago headquarters
- Anyone willing to become an Alliant Credit Union Foundation digital inclusion advocate through a $5 donation (which Alliant makes on the member’s behalf)
The third eligibility option effectively makes Alliant accessible to anyone nationwide, though it requires a nominal donation. This approach allows Alliant to maintain its credit union structure while serving a broad membership base.
Alliant offers high-yield savings accounts, competitive checking accounts (including interest-bearing options), money market accounts, CDs, mortgages, home equity loans, auto loans, personal loans, and credit cards. The credit union is particularly known for its High-Rate Checking account, which offers competitive APYs with reasonable qualification requirements, and its Supplemental Savings account, which typically offers above-average interest rates. To compare Alliant’s savings rates with other top credit unions, visit our guide to the best high-yield savings accounts.
The digital-first approach extends to comprehensive online and mobile banking capabilities, including mobile check deposit, bill pay, Zelle integration, and advanced security features. Alliant also provides members with access to over 80,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide through the Allpoint network.
10. Suncoast Credit Union
Assets: $18.7 billion
Headquarters: Tampa, Florida
Members: 1.2 million
Deposits: Over $16 billion
Branch Network: Extensive Florida presence
Suncoast Credit Union rounds out the top 10, maintaining its position as Florida’s largest credit union. Founded in 1934, Suncoast has grown significantly over its nine-decade history, now serving more than 1.2 million members primarily throughout Florida.
The credit union is known for its community involvement, competitive financial products, and comprehensive member services. Suncoast maintains numerous branches throughout Florida, providing convenient access for members while also offering robust digital banking options.
Membership Eligibility:
- Residents who live, work, attend school, or participate in religious activities in counties served by Suncoast
- Alumni of Florida College
- Employees of select partner organizations
- Family members of current members
Suncoast offers a full range of financial products including checking and savings accounts, money market accounts, CDs, mortgages, home equity loans, auto loans, personal loans, student loans, credit cards, and business banking services. The credit union provides multiple checking account options, including accounts specifically designed for students, seniors, and those seeking premium benefits.
Suncoast differentiates itself through extensive community involvement and member education initiatives. The credit union operates several financial education centers throughout Florida, offering free workshops on budgeting, credit management, homebuying, retirement planning, and other financial topics. Additionally, Suncoast maintains strong partnerships with local schools, providing financial literacy programs for students and scholarship opportunities.
Why Choose a Credit Union Over a Traditional Bank?
While this article focuses on the largest credit unions, it’s worth understanding the fundamental differences between credit unions and traditional banks, and why millions of Americans choose credit unions for their financial needs.
Member Ownership Structure
Unlike banks, which are owned by shareholders seeking profit, credit unions operate as not-for-profit cooperatives owned by their members. This fundamental difference means that credit unions exist to serve member interests rather than maximize shareholder returns. Profits are typically reinvested in the form of:
- Higher interest rates on savings accounts and CDs
- Lower interest rates on loans and credit cards
- Reduced or eliminated fees
- Enhanced services and products
- Community investment and member education programs
Competitive Rates and Lower Fees
According to recent industry data, credit unions typically offer:
- Higher savings rates: Credit union savings accounts often provide interest rates 0.10% to 0.25% higher than traditional banks
- Lower loan rates: Auto loans and mortgages at credit unions typically feature rates 0.25% to 1% lower than bank alternatives
- Fewer fees: Many credit unions offer free checking accounts with no monthly maintenance fees, no minimum balance requirements, and no overdraft fees (or significantly lower overdraft fees than banks)
For detailed comparisons of current rates and fees, explore our comprehensive banking comparison tools.
Personalized Service and Community Focus
Credit unions generally maintain a stronger focus on personalized service and community involvement. With membership based on common bonds (geographic area, employer, organization), credit unions tend to develop closer relationships with members and maintain deeper ties to their communities.
Federal Insurance Protection
Despite being not-for-profit organizations, credit unions offer the same level of deposit insurance protection as traditional banks. The National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government, insures deposits up to $250,000 per depositor, per insured credit union, for each account ownership category—identical to FDIC coverage at banks. Learn more about how NCUA insurance protects your deposits in our detailed guide.
How to Choose the Right Credit Union
Selecting a credit union requires evaluating several factors beyond simply size and asset holdings. Consider the following criteria when determining which credit union best serves your financial needs:
1. Membership Eligibility
First and foremost, verify that you qualify for membership. While some credit unions like PenFed maintain open membership, others have specific eligibility requirements based on:
- Geographic location (where you live, work, or attend school)
- Employment (current or former employer)
- Military affiliation
- Professional or organizational membership
- Family relationships to current members
2. Product Offerings and Services
Evaluate whether the credit union offers the specific products and services you need:
- Checking and savings accounts with competitive rates
- Mortgage and home equity products
- Auto loans with favorable terms
- Credit cards with rewards and low rates
- Business banking services (if applicable)
- Investment and retirement planning services
- Insurance products
3. Branch and ATM Access
Consider how you prefer to conduct banking:
- Extensive branch network: Important if you value in-person service and regularly need to visit a branch
- Digital banking: Essential for those who prefer managing finances online or through mobile apps
- ATM access: Verify the credit union provides access to a large ATM network, ideally with fee reimbursements for out-of-network usage
4. Digital Banking Capabilities
In 2025, robust digital banking is no longer optional—it’s essential. Evaluate:
- Mobile app functionality and user reviews
- Online account management capabilities
- Mobile check deposit availability
- Digital payment options (Zelle, Venmo integration)
- Account alerts and monitoring features
- Security measures and fraud protection
5. Customer Service Quality
Research the credit union’s reputation for member service:
- Read member reviews on independent platforms
- Check Better Business Bureau ratings
- Evaluate responsiveness through test inquiries
- Assess availability (extended hours, 24/7 support)
6. Financial Strength and Stability
While all credit unions on this list demonstrate strong financial positions, smaller credit unions require additional scrutiny:
- Review the credit union’s net worth ratio (above 10% is considered healthy)
- Check NCUA ratings and examination reports
- Evaluate asset growth trends
- Assess loan-to-share ratios
Credit Union Industry Trends in 2025
Understanding current industry trends provides context for evaluating credit unions and anticipating future developments:
Continued Consolidation
The number of federally insured credit unions has steadily declined from 4,572 in the first quarter of 2024 to 4,411 by the first quarter of 2025. This consolidation results primarily from mergers, as smaller credit unions combine with larger institutions to achieve operational efficiencies, expand service offerings, and compete more effectively with large banks.
Digital Transformation Acceleration
Credit unions continue investing heavily in digital banking infrastructure. According to industry analysis, digital transformation initiatives focus on:
- Enhanced mobile banking apps with expanded functionality
- AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants
- Advanced fraud detection and cybersecurity measures
- Personalized financial management tools
- Seamless digital account opening processes
Commercial and Business Lending Growth
While historically focused on consumer lending, credit unions have significantly expanded commercial lending portfolios. Commercial loans secured by real estate and non-real estate assets increased by $33 billion from year-end 2022 through the first quarter of 2025, reflecting strategic diversification efforts and response to small business demand for alternative lending sources.
Focus on Financial Wellness
Credit unions increasingly emphasize comprehensive financial wellness programs, moving beyond traditional banking services to offer:
- Free financial counseling and coaching
- Extensive educational resources and workshops
- Budgeting and savings tools
- Debt management assistance
- Retirement planning services
Sustainable and Socially Responsible Banking
Many credit unions now offer products and initiatives focused on environmental sustainability and social responsibility, including:
- Green auto loans for electric and hybrid vehicles
- Energy-efficient mortgage programs
- Community development lending
- Support for underserved populations
- Partnerships with local nonprofit organizations
Frequently Asked Questions About Large Credit Unions
Can anyone join one of these large credit unions?
Membership eligibility varies significantly. Pentagon Federal Credit Union maintains open membership available to anyone, while others have specific requirements based on geographic location, employment, military affiliation, or family relationships. However, many large credit unions have broadened eligibility criteria over time, making membership more accessible.
Are large credit unions safer than small ones?
Size doesn’t necessarily correlate with safety, as all federally insured credit unions benefit from NCUSIF insurance protection. However, larger credit unions often demonstrate stronger financial metrics, including higher net worth ratios, more diversified loan portfolios, and greater operational resources. Regardless of size, always verify that a credit union carries federal insurance through the NCUA.
Do large credit unions offer better rates than smaller ones?
Not necessarily. While large credit unions leverage economies of scale to offer competitive rates, many smaller credit unions provide equally attractive—or sometimes better—rates due to their not-for-profit structure and focus on returning value to members. Compare specific rates across multiple institutions rather than assuming size determines competitiveness.
Can I access my account if I travel or move outside the credit union’s primary service area?
Absolutely. All major credit unions offer comprehensive online and mobile banking, allowing account access from anywhere with internet connectivity. Additionally, credit unions participate in shared branching networks, enabling members to conduct transactions at thousands of participating credit union branches nationwide. Most credit unions also provide access to extensive ATM networks through partnerships with CO-OP Network, Allpoint, or other ATM networks.
How do credit unions make money if they’re not-for-profit?
Credit unions generate revenue primarily through interest income on loans and investments, along with various service fees. However, unlike banks that distribute profits to shareholders, credit unions reinvest earnings into the institution to provide better rates, lower fees, enhanced services, and community programs that benefit members.
Making Your Decision
The largest credit unions in America offer compelling alternatives to traditional banking, combining financial strength with member-focused service and competitive products. Whether you prioritize extensive branch networks, cutting-edge digital banking, specialized military services, or community-focused institutions, the top 10 credit unions provide diverse options to meet varied financial needs.
When evaluating potential credit unions, look beyond asset size to consider factors that directly impact your banking experience: product offerings, accessibility, digital capabilities, customer service, and alignment with your financial goals. Additionally, don’t limit your search exclusively to the largest institutions—many smaller credit unions offer exceptional service and competitive products that might better serve your specific needs.
The credit union industry’s strong performance in 2025, with growing assets, expanding membership, and healthy financial metrics, underscores the viability and resilience of the credit union model. As traditional banks continue closing branches and implementing new fees, credit unions represent an increasingly attractive alternative for consumers seeking relationship-based banking with competitive rates and member-focused service.
For more information about specific credit unions, eligibility requirements, and current product offerings, visit the individual credit union websites or consult the National Credit Union Administration’s credit union locator tool to find institutions that serve your area. Additionally, explore our credit union membership guide for step-by-step instructions on joining a credit union.