2025 Umpqua Bank Review

When it comes to banking, most people are looking for three things: reliability, convenience, and fair value. Umpqua Bank has built a reputation as a dependable regional bank, particularly on the West Coast. But in 2025, with digital banks offering high yields and low fees, does Umpqua still hold its own?

In this review, we’ll take an honest look at what Umpqua Bank does well, where it falls short, and who might benefit most from banking with them.

What Is Umpqua Bank?

Umpqua Bank is a community-rooted regional bank headquartered in Portland, Oregon. Founded in 1953, it now operates over 300 locations across Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, and Nevada. Following a 2023 merger with Columbia Bank, Umpqua expanded its reach but maintained its local banking feel.

Umpqua offers a full range of financial products, from checking and savings accounts to mortgages and business loans. It positions itself as a “human digital bank,” aiming to combine local service with modern tech. That blend works for some customers, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Umpqua Bank at a Glance

What Umpqua Offers

1. Checking Accounts

Umpqua’s personal checking options are fairly standard, with a focus on simplicity and accessibility. The most popular option is the Embark Checking, which is designed to keep banking straightforward.

Here’s what it offers:

• $25 minimum to open
• No monthly fee if you enroll in paperless statements
• $3/month if you opt to receive paper statements
• Up to $10/month in non-Umpqua ATM rebates (with a $2,500+ average balance)
• One free Grow Savings account
• Free debit card, mobile check deposit, Zelle integration

That said, Embark Checking does not earn interest, which might be a drawback if you’re hoping to grow your balance over time.

Umpqua also offers other checking accounts with tiered benefits, but they typically come with higher balance requirements or direct deposit minimums to avoid monthly fees. These premium accounts may offer perks like interest earnings or additional ATM rebates, but they’re better suited for those maintaining larger balances.

2. Savings and CDs

Umpqua’s savings accounts offer convenience, but the interest rates are low compared to online banks. CDs (Certificates of Deposit) may provide more competitive promotional rates if you’re willing to lock in your money for a longer term.

3. Loans and Mortgages

The bank offers:

• Fixed and adjustable-rate mortgages
• Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs)
• Personal loans
• Auto loans

Mortgage support is a standout for Umpqua, with knowledgeable loan officers and flexible options for first-time homebuyers.

4. Business Banking

Small and mid-sized businesses have access to:

• Business checking and savings accounts
• SBA loans
• Cash management tools
• Merchant services

This is where Umpqua definitely performs. Its business banking side often gets high marks for hands-on customer support and tailored solutions.

Umpqua Bank Pros and Cons

Is Umpqua Safe?

Yes. Umpqua is a member of the FDIC, which means deposits are insured up to $250,000 per depositor, per account category.

Final Thoughts: Is Umpqua Bank Right for You?

Umpqua Bank is a solid option if you live in the Pacific Northwest and value face-to-face banking and community involvement. It’s particularly well-suited for small business owners who want local support and a full-service experience.

However, if your top priority is earning high interest on your savings, avoiding fees, or banking entirely online, you may find better options elsewhere.

Bottom line: Umpqua does traditional banking well, but in 2025, you’ll want to weigh that against what you might be missing from a low-fee, high-interest online competitor.

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