Top 10 Best Commercial Banks in Kenya for June 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Kenya’s banking sector is a cornerstone of the country’s economic growth, offering a wide array of financial products and services to individuals, small businesses, and corporations. As of June 2025, the sector remains vibrant, driven by robust digital banking solutions, competitive interest rates, and a focus on financial inclusion. With 39 licensed commercial banks regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), choosing the right bank can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide ranks the top 10 commercial banks in Kenya for June 2025 based on recent financial performance, customer reviews, online banking services, branch networks, fees, interest rates, loan offerings, savings accounts, and mobile banking apps. Whether you’re seeking affordable loans, high-yield savings, or seamless digital banking, this article provides everything you need to make an informed decision.

Why Choosing the Right Bank Matters in 2025

The Kenyan financial sector has evolved significantly, with banks adopting cutting-edge technologies and customer-centric services to stay competitive. The CBK’s monetary policies, including a recent easing that lowered average lending rates to 16.89% in December 2024, have made banking more accessible. However, factors like fees, branch accessibility, and digital banking capabilities vary widely. Selecting a bank that aligns with your financial goals—whether it’s securing a low-interest loan, maximizing savings returns, or enjoying seamless mobile banking—can significantly impact your financial well-being.

Key Factors for Evaluating Banks

To rank the top 10 commercial banks, we considered:

Financial Performance: Stability, profitability, and non-performing loan ratios.
Customer Reviews: Feedback on service quality, responsiveness, and user experience.
Online Banking Services: Ease of use, features, and security of digital platforms.
Branch and ATM Network: Accessibility across Kenya’s urban and rural areas.
Fees and Charges: Transparency and affordability of account maintenance and transaction fees.
Interest Rates: Competitive rates for loans and savings accounts.
Mobile Banking Apps: Functionality, user ratings, and integration with mobile money services like M-Pesa.
Product Offerings: Diversity of loans, savings accounts, and specialized financial products.

Top 10 Commercial Banks in Kenya for June 2025

1. Co-operative Bank of Kenya

Overview: Crowned the best bank in the 2022 Sustainable Finance Initiative (SFI) Catalyst Awards, Co-operative Bank continues to lead in 2025 with its innovative products and customer-focused services.

Financial Performance: Strong balance sheet with a low non-performing loan (NPL) ratio of 14.5% in 2024, reflecting prudent lending practices.
Customer Reviews: Highly rated for excellent customer service and quick loan processing.
Online Banking: Robust internet banking platform with real-time transaction capabilities.
Branch Network: Over 150 branches and 600+ ATMs nationwide, ensuring wide accessibility.
Fees: No monthly maintenance fees on basic savings accounts; competitive transaction fees.
Interest Rates: Personal loans at 14.5% p.a., savings accounts up to 4.5% APY.
Mobile Banking: M-Co-op Cash app integrates seamlessly with M-Pesa, offering instant loans and bill payments.
Why It Stands Out: Known for affordable personal and business loans, plus a strong focus on cooperative societies and SMEs.

2. Equity Bank

Overview: A powerhouse in financial inclusion, Equity Bank secured second place in the 2022 SFI Awards and remains a top choice for its extensive reach and digital innovation.

Financial Performance: Stable with a 14.39% lending rate and a growing deposit base.
Customer Reviews: Praised for accessibility in rural areas and responsive support.
Online Banking: Eazzy Banking platform offers comprehensive services, from fund transfers to investment tracking.
Branch Network: Over 190 branches and 6000+ agency banking outlets.
Fees: Minimal fees on savings accounts; Eazzy Loans have no origination fees.
Interest Rates: Business loans at 14-18% p.a.; savings accounts up to 4.25% APY.
Mobile Banking: Eazzy App is user-friendly, with features like instant loan approvals and M-Pesa integration.
Why It Stands Out: Unmatched agency banking network and tailored products for MSMEs.

3. KCB Bank Kenya

Overview: KCB Bank is a regional giant with a strong presence in Kenya, offering competitive rates and a wide product range.

Financial Performance: Solid profitability with an NPL ratio of 16.2% in 2024.
Customer Reviews: Appreciated for reliability and extensive branch network.
Online Banking: KCB i-Bank provides secure, user-friendly access to accounts and loans.
Branch Network: 200+ branches and 400+ ATMs across Kenya.
Fees: Low maintenance fees on savings accounts; some transaction fees apply.
Interest Rates: Loans at 14.6% p.a.; savings accounts up to 4.3% APY.
Mobile Banking: KCB Mobile App supports instant loans, investments, and bill payments.
Why It Stands Out: Competitive mortgage rates (8.5-14%) and green financing options.

4. NCBA Bank

Overview: Formed from the merger of NIC and CBA, NCBA Bank excels in flexible loan products and digital banking.

Financial Performance: Resilient with a 15.34% lending rate and strong liquidity.
Customer Reviews: Positive feedback on loan flexibility and customer support.
Online Banking: Loop platform offers seamless digital banking for individuals and businesses.
Branch Network: 80+ branches and 200+ ATMs.
Fees: No fees on digital transactions; some accounts have monthly charges.
Interest Rates: Unsecured personal loans at 15.34% p.a.; savings up to 4.2% APY.
Mobile Banking: Loop App is highly rated for its sleek interface and M-Pesa integration.
Why It Stands Out: Flexible unsecured loans and a modern digital banking experience.

5. Standard Chartered Bank

Overview: A global brand with a strong local presence, Standard Chartered is ideal for salaried clients and premium banking.

Financial Performance: Low NPL ratio and high operational efficiency.
Customer Reviews: Lauded for premium services and efficient operations.
Online Banking: SC Mobile Banking offers robust features for wealth management.
Branch Network: 30+ branches and 100+ ATMs, concentrated in urban areas.
Fees: Higher fees for premium accounts; waived for high-balance clients.
Interest Rates: Loans at 15.28% p.a.; savings accounts up to 4% APY.
Mobile Banking: SC Mobile App is secure and feature-rich, with real-time alerts.
Why It Stands Out: Low rates for salaried clients and strong wealth management services.

6. Absa Bank Kenya

Overview: Rebranded from Barclays, Absa combines global expertise with local innovation.

Financial Performance: Stable with competitive growth in deposits.
Customer Reviews: Good ratings for digital services and loan accessibility.
Online Banking: Absa Online Banking is intuitive, with strong security features.
Branch Network: 80+ branches and 200+ ATMs.
Fees: Competitive, with fee waivers for maintaining minimum balances.
Interest Rates: Personal loans at 15-18% p.a.; savings up to 4.1% APY.
Mobile Banking: Absa Mobile App supports instant loans and investments.
Why It Stands Out: Strong focus on digital transformation and SME financing.

7. Diamond Trust Bank (DTB)

Overview: DTB is known for its business banking solutions and growing digital presence.

Financial Performance: Steady growth with a focus on SME lending.
Customer Reviews: Positive for business loan flexibility and customer service.
Online Banking: DTB Online offers reliable transaction and loan management tools.
Branch Network: 60+ branches and 150+ ATMs.
Fees: Moderate fees; some accounts offer fee waivers.
Interest Rates: Business loans at 14-18% p.a.; savings up to 4% APY.
Mobile Banking: DTB Mobile App is user-friendly, with M-Pesa integration.
Why It Stands Out: Tailored business loans and a strong East African presence.

8. I&M Bank

Overview: I&M Bank is a leader in green financing and premium banking services.

Financial Performance: Strong liquidity and low NPL ratio.
Customer Reviews: High satisfaction for personalized services.
Online Banking: I&M Net Banking is secure and feature-rich.
Branch Network: 50+ branches and 100+ ATMs.
Fees: Competitive, with no fees on select digital transactions.
Interest Rates: Loans at 14-17% p.a.; savings up to 4.2% APY.
Mobile Banking: I&M Mobile App offers seamless transactions and loan access.
Why It Stands Out: Concessional rates for green financing and excellent wealth management.

9. Stanbic Bank Kenya

Overview: A subsidiary of Standard Bank Group, Stanbic excels in corporate and retail banking.

Financial Performance: Robust with a focus on corporate clients.
Customer Reviews: Praised for professional service and digital tools.
Online Banking: Stanbic Online Banking supports complex financial needs.
Branch Network: 40+ branches and 100+ ATMs.
Fees: Higher for premium accounts; some fee waivers available.
Interest Rates: Loans at 15-18% p.a.; savings up to 4% APY.
Mobile Banking: Stanbic Mobile App is reliable and feature-packed.
Why It Stands Out: Strong corporate banking and investment services.

10. Family Bank

Overview: A leader in financial inclusion, Family Bank caters to individuals and SMEs.

Financial Performance: Growing steadily with a focus on microfinance.
Customer Reviews: Appreciated for accessibility and affordable products.
Online Banking: Family Bank Online is simple and effective.
Branch Network: 70+ branches and 150+ ATMs.
Fees: Low fees on savings accounts; competitive transaction costs.
Interest Rates: Loans at 14-18% p.a.; savings up to 4.1% APY.
Mobile Banking: PesaPap App is popular for its simplicity and M-Pesa integration.
Why It Stands Out: Affordable products and a strong focus on underserved communities.

Trends Shaping Kenya’s Banking Sector in 2025

Digital Transformation

Kenya’s banks are prioritizing digital solutions to meet the demands of 216.8 million projected digital banking users globally by 2025. Mobile apps like M-Co-op Cash, Eazzy App, and Loop are integrating with M-Pesa and Airtel Money for seamless transactions. Security remains a priority, with banks investing in biometric authentication and real-time fraud detection.

Financial Inclusion

Banks like Equity and Family Bank are expanding agency banking to reach rural areas, supporting CBK’s goal of universal financial access. The Kenya Bankers Association (KBA) has pledged Ksh 150 billion annually for MSME loans, boosting small business growth.

Competitive Interest Rates

The CBK’s easing policy has reduced average lending rates to 15-16% by mid-2025, making loans more affordable. Savings rates have also risen to 4.25%, benefiting depositors.

Sustainability and Green Financing

Banks like I&M and KCB are leading in green financing, offering concessional rates for eco-friendly projects. This aligns with global trends toward sustainable finance.

How to Choose the Right Bank for You

Selecting a bank depends on your financial needs:

For Low-Cost Loans: Co-operative Bank and KCB offer competitive rates (14.5-14.6% p.a.).
For Digital Banking: NCBA’s Loop and Equity’s Eazzy App are top-rated.
For SMEs: Equity and DTB provide tailored business loans and flexible terms.
For Savings: Co-operative and Equity offer high-yield savings accounts (up to 4.5% APY).
For Premium Services: Standard Chartered and Stanbic cater to high-net-worth clients.

Tips for Comparing Banks

Assess Fees: Look for banks with low or no monthly maintenance fees.
Check Accessibility: Ensure the bank has branches or ATMs near you or robust digital options.
Compare Rates: Evaluate loan and savings rates to maximize returns or minimize costs.
Read Reviews: Check customer feedback on platforms like X for real-world insights.
Test Mobile Apps: Download and explore apps for user-friendliness and features.

Challenges Facing Kenyan Banks in 2025

Despite their strengths, Kenyan banks face challenges:

High NPL Ratios: The average NPL ratio of 16.5% in 2024 indicates credit risk.
Digital Security: Rising cyber threats require continuous investment in security.
Regulatory Pressure: CBK’s push for lower lending rates may squeeze profit margins.
Competition from Fintechs: Mobile money platforms like M-Pesa challenge traditional banking models.

Kenya’s banking sector in June 2025 offers diverse options for consumers, from digital-first banks like NCBA to inclusive giants like Equity. Co-operative Bank leads with its innovative products and affordability, while Equity and KCB excel in accessibility and competitive rates. By evaluating factors like fees, interest rates, and digital capabilities, you can choose a bank that aligns with your financial goals. Stay informed about CBK policies and emerging trends to make the most of Kenya’s dynamic financial landscape.