United Community Bank named one of America’s Best Regional Banks by Newsweek

CHATHAM, Ill. — United Community Bank recently was recognized as one of America’s Best Regional Banks by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group for the second year in a row.

This recognition considers a financial institution’s credit quality, profitability and net loans and leases, in combination with a comprehensive survey of more than 71,000 people and more than 845,000 reviews of regional banks and credit unions nationwide. More than 1.9 million social media reviews and 129 million app store reviews were gathered to assist with the scoring.

In a press release, Robert A. Narmont, chairman of United Community Bank, said, “We are honored to again be named among the nation’s top regional banks for 2025. This award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to financial excellence and the confidence of our customers and communities. We are privileged to serve as their trusted financial partner.”

Nancy Cooper, Global editor-in-chief of Newsweek, emphasized the role of regional banks.

“Regional banks and credit unions are the financial backbone of communities nationwide,” she said. “They serve as vital engines at the local level as they support small businesses fund projects and ensure easy access to essential banking services. With intimate knowledge of local economies, these banks often form strong bonds with customers, enabling them to better meet their needs. Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group are proud to honor organizations like United Community Bank positively impacting their communities.”

United Community Bank continues to maintain its five-star rating from Bauer Financial, solidifying its position as one of the nation’s strongest financial institutions. Additionally, UCB has been consistently recognized as “Best Bank” by readers and listeners of numerous community publications and radio stations.

“These recognitions are deeply meaningful to our entire team,” Allen Schmale, president of United Community Bank, said. “They reflect not only our past successes but also inspire us to continue delivering unparalleled banking services to our communities. We thank our customers and communities for their steadfast trust and support.”

For more than a century, UCB and its family of United Community Banks have been dedicated to building lasting relationships, offering innovative financial solutions and empowering the communities they serve.

United Community Bank, headquartered in Chatham, is an employee-owned regional bank holding company with roots dating back to 1907. United Community Banks are United Community Bank, Marine Bank & Trust, Brown County State Bank, Farmers State Bank of Camp Point, and Liberty Bank in Illinois, Mercantile Bank in Illinois and Missouri, and United Commonwealth Bank in Naples, Fla.

To visit all United banks online, visit ucbbanks.com.