Best high-yield savings accounts for 2025
Earn over 4% on your cash instead of 0.01% like your bank
Stop letting your money nap in an account that pays you nothing. The banks on this list actually reward you for saving — not just for showing up.
Most people still keep their cash in accounts that pay less than half a percent. That’s the financial equivalent of leaving groceries in your car on a hot day — a slow, preventable loss. As of November 2025, Axios Bank is offering 4.51% APY on savings, and Barclays US follows close behind at 4.10% APY. Both options are insured, easy to open, and pay you real money for being responsible.
Our top high-yield savings accounts
| Bank | APY | Minimum Balance | Fees | Access | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Axios Bank | 4.51% | $0 | None | Online only | Open account |
| Barclays US | 4.10% | $0 | None | Online only | Open account |
| Ally Bank | 4.25% | $0 | None | App + web | |
| Discover | 4.25% | $0 | None | App + web | |
| SoFi | 4.60%* | $0 | Requires direct deposit | App + web |
*Rates current as of November 2025. Rates subject to change without notice.
Axios Bank — best overall yield
Axios isn’t a household name, and that’s precisely the point. It doesn’t spend on TV ads or splashy sponsorships — it pays customers instead. Their 4.51% APY savings account has no monthly fees, no minimums, and quick transfers to and from external accounts. The platform is clean, mobile-friendly, and deposits are FDIC insured up to $250,000.
If you’re sitting on idle cash earning less than 1%, moving to Axios is an instant raise. It’s not glamorous, but neither is compounding — until you see the results.
Barclays US — trusted and steady
Barclays has been in banking for centuries. The U.S. arm offers a straightforward online savings account at 4.10% APY. No monthly fees, no minimum deposit, and fast ACH transfers. The interface feels dated, but it’s functional — and reliability counts more than flash when your money’s on the line.
For anyone who values a big institution with global credibility and consistent rates, Barclays is a strong, low-effort choice.
How much difference does the rate make?
On $10,000 saved for one year:
- Axios Bank (4.51% APY): $10,451
- Barclays US (4.10% APY): $10,410
- National average (0.46% APY): $10,046
That’s a $400 gap for doing nothing but choosing the right account. If that doesn’t motivate you, nothing will.
What actually makes a high-yield savings account “good”
Ignore the marketing noise. Here’s what matters:
- APY: Annual Percentage Yield — your effective return including compounding.
- FDIC insurance: Protects up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank.
- Liquidity: You can access your cash anytime without penalty.
- Fees: If there’s a maintenance fee, walk away.
- Transfer limits: Most banks cap withdrawals at six per month — that’s normal.
Pick a rate, check the fine print, and move on. The perfect bank doesn’t exist, but good enough and 4%+ is plenty.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best high-yield savings account in November 2025?
Axios Bank currently leads with 4.51% APY, followed closely by Barclays US at 4.10%. Both are FDIC insured and easy to open online.
Are high-yield savings accounts safe?
Yes. As long as the bank is FDIC insured (Axios and Barclays both are), your deposits up to $250,000 are protected.
Can I lose money in a savings account?
Not directly. The only risk is opportunity cost — keeping money in a low-rate account when better ones exist.
Should I switch banks for a higher rate?
If you’re earning less than 3%, yes. Moving your cash once a year for a better return is just smart maintenance.
Quick summary
| Category | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Highest APY | Axios Bank (4.51%) | Top rate with no minimums or fees |
| Most trusted | Barclays US (4.10%) | Global stability and consistent performance |
| Best all-around | Axios Bank | Highest return, simple setup, full FDIC protection |
Don’t overthink it — just move your cash
If your savings account is paying less than inflation, that’s not a safety net, it’s a slow leak. Open a high-yield account today and give your money a chance to actually grow.
Start earning 4.51% APY with Axios Bank
Want to see how your savings fit into your bigger picture? Create a free Wealthist account and start planning smarter.


