Why Choose a Community Bank
When deciding where to keep your money, the conversation often circles around credit unions and banks. At Range Bank, we believe the choice is about more than rates or fees- it's about values, impact, and the future of your community. Since 1887, we've been proud to serve the Upper Peninsula and Northern Wisconsin, helping families, small businesses, and neighborhoods thrive.
What Makes Range Bank Different
- Locally Owned, Locally Operated. Range Bank is deeply rooted in the communities we serve. Loan decisions aren't made in a distant headquarters - they're made by people who understand the local housing market, the realities of small-town businesses, and the unique needs of families here in the U.P.
- Investing Back Into the Community. As a community bank, we pay federal, state, and local taxes. Those dollars flow back into schools, roads, public safety, and programs that strengthen the region. Every account opened and every loan written adds to the economic strength of the area.
- Relationships Over Transactions. At Range Bank, we believe banking is about people, not just numbers. Our customers often work with the same banker across generations, through milestones like buying a first home, saving for college, or starting a business.
- Modern Tools, Personal Touch. From mobile apps and online bill pay to person-to-person payments, Range bank offers the same digital convenience as national players - with the added bonus of personal guidance when you want it.
Where Credit Unions Fit In
Credit unions are member-owned cooperatives, and they don't pay income taxes. That can sometimes mean lower fees or slightly better loan rates. Membership is often tied to where you live, work, or go to school.
Credit unions serve an important role in the financial landscape - but because they don't pay taxes, they don't directly fund local infrastructure the way community banks do.
Clearing Up Common Myths
- Myth: Credit unions always have better rates.
- Facts: Community banks like Range Bank compete directly - often matching or beating rates - and offer broader lending programs like SBA loans, mortgages, and business lines of credit.
- Myth: Community banks are too small to offer modern tools.
- Fact: Range Bank provides secure digital banking, mobile deposits, bill pay, and more - while still giving you real people to talk to when you need it.
- Myth: Credit unions are the only "community-focused" option.
- Fact: Community banks reinvest profits into sponsorships, charitable donations, and taxes that directly support schools, parks, and infrastructure.
Why Banking Local Sparks Growth
For families and businesses, the difference comes down to impact:
- Community Investment. Range Bank sponsors local events, supports nonprofits, and invests in programs that make neighborhoods stronger.
- Small Business Focus. Entrepreneurs count on Range Bank for lending that reflects seasonal cycles and hometown realities. Those businesses create jobs and fuel growth close to home.
- Stability and Trust. Generations have turned to Range Bank to navigate economic ups and downs. That steady, long-term approach builds confidence and connection that lasts.
The Ripple Effect of Banking Local
Choosing a financial institution isn't only about rates or fees. It's about values, relationships, and the ripple effect of your dollars. With Range Bank, your money works for you and strengthens your schools, your main street, and your town.
Community Owned. Community Strong. Banking Local Sparks Community Growth.
More Resources
Why local decisions matter for your money
Financial reset: 5 steps to start 2026 off strong
Disclaimer
While we hope you will find this content helpful, it is meant to be just a starting point. Your next step should be to consult with a qualified, licensed professional who can offer guidance tailored to your specific situation. Nothing in this article, nor in any related materials, should be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Additionally, although we have made sincere efforts to ensure that the information provided was accurate at the time of preparation, we cannot guarantee its current accuracy.
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