Relocating to the Triangle? Have you thought about where you'll be banking? 

One of the first things my husband and I had to do when we moved to the Raleigh area was find a new bank.  We had no idea what banks were available or how many branches each of the banks had - we just knew that we couldn't deposit a paycheck or write a check until we set up an account with a local bank! 

If you're relocating to the Triangle, here's a guide to local banks, along with where they are headquartered, how many branches they have, and some features of each.  This information is geared to the Chatham and Orange county areas, specifically to the towns of Pittsboro, Carrboro, and Chapel Hill, as well as communities like Silk Hope, Eli Whitney, Jordan Lake, and Farrington. 

Bank of America - 

I think everyone knows BofA - one of the largest US banks.  If you're already with them, chances are you're going to relocate without switching banks - congratulations!  What I didn't know was that Bank of America is headquartered in Charlotte, NC.  There are 4 branches in Carrboro and Chapel Hill, and over 30 branches in the Triangle Area.  If you're interested in a career with Bank of America, click here.

Capital Bank -

Capital Bank is a "younger" North Carolina bank, but has been making a name for itself.  If you're building a custom home and need a construction loan, contact Capital Bank - but they also do plenty with personal finance.  There are about 10 branches in the Triangle, including one in Pittsboro.  If you're looking for a position with a growing bank, click here.

Suntrust Bank -

Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, Suntrust bank offers nearly 1700 retail branches throughout the SouthEast.  Open a new account by the end of March, and Suntrust will donate $100 to a charity of your choice (or give you a $50 gift card).  With 5 locations in Pittsboro, 2 in Carrboro, and 11 in Chapel Hill, there are plenty of branches.  And if you're looking to relocate and need to find a new banking position, click here.   

BB&T Bank

BB&T is one of the largest banks in the Carolinas, with a huge tower in downtown Raleigh, and over 100 years of North Carolina experience.  BB&T Bank operates about 1500 branches in 11 states and Washington DC, and has 29,000 employees.  One of the perks they offer customers is a "points" system when using your debit/check card.  Two locations in Chapel Hill and about 25 in the Triangle.  For career opportunities, click here.

First Bank

With free checking, free online banking, and free bill pay, First Bank has a popular following.  First Bank even offers a Relocation Package that includes area information as well as details about construction loans, mortgage loans, and more.  First Bank began in 1935 in Troy, NC, and now has 63 branches in North Carolina.  There's a branch in Pittsboro and 10 more in the Triangle area. 

First Citizens Bank

Founded in 1898 in Johnston County, NC, First Citizens Bank has grown to cover 200 cities in North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, and Maryland.  Their subsidiary, IronStone Bank, has branches in another 9 states.  First Citizens Bank also offers free checking, free bill pay, and free online banking.  First Citizens does offer construction loans as well.  There are 5 locations in Chapel Hill, and over 40 throughout the Triangle.  If you're relocating and looking for a bank position, click here.

Harrington Bank

While still small, Harrington Bank has set itself apart in the customer service arena.  Customers are offered gourmet coffee, soft drinks, and cookies, along with the Wall Street Journal and a variety of newspapers, for the unlikely event that a wait is necessary.  Construction loans are offered.  A loyal group of Chapel Hillians swear by this bank, even though currently there are just four locations - three in Chapel Hill and one in Raleigh.  Looking for a career?  Click here - Harrington Bank is based in Chapel Hill.

Wachovia Corporation

Wachovia is the result of the joining of two original North Carolina banks, both founded in the 1800s.  Now ranked #4 in the US based on total assets, Wachovia offers banking throughout about half of the US.  Free checking is offered - but be careful, they do charge a fee to download to Quicken.  There are five Chapel Hill locations, and over 40 locations throughout the Triangle.  If you're looking for a career, click here. 

I'm sure I've missed a couple of terrific banks.  If you don't see your favorite here, let me know, and I'll add it!

And if you're relocating and looking for a new banking position, be sure to check out the career links - some of these positions never make it to Jobs.com.

Raleigh and the Triangle Area

Whether you're looking at relocating to Raleigh to start your career, to find a friendly place to raise a family, or retiring in a terrific climate, Raleigh and the Research Park Triangle has something to offer you. Great schools, Forbes rated #1 in 2007 for Businesses and Careers, lots of lakes and golf courses, top-rated cultural centers, universities, and hospitals - and all only two hours to the ocean and three hours to the mountains - it's no wonder that Raleigh is a "Best Place to Live"!

You may also be interested in these articles:

UNC Hospitals at Chapel Hill - What do they offer? How good are they? How do I get there?  

Property Taxes - How Much Am I Gonna Pay? Here's How to Figure it Out for Chatham County/Pittsboro/Siler City!

What is Silk Hope, NC? Find Out More About This Beautiful Chatham County Community

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