First Federal Bank Celebrates Recognition as One of America's Best Regional Banks for 2026

First Federal Bank Recognized Among Best Regional Banks in 2026

First Federal Bank has proudly announced its recognition as one of America's Best Regional Banks for the year 2026, according to the latest findings by Newsweek. This honor marks a significant achievement for the bank, as it is the third consecutive year that it has received this accolade, further solidifying its reputation and commitment to exceptional customer service and banking solutions.

A Legacy of Excellence

For six years, First Federal Bank has been acknowledged by Newsweek for its exemplary performance in the banking sector. Previous recognitions include being named the Best Small Bank in Florida from 2021 to 2023. These distinctions reflect the bank’s longstanding dedication to serving its communities and ensuring customer satisfaction.

The selection process involved a comprehensive evaluation conducted by Newsweek in collaboration with the research firm Plant-A Insights. This year, over 8,800 financial institutions were assessed, focusing particularly on various key financial benchmarks such as profitability, the Texas ratio, and net loans and leases. From this extensive review, more than 2,400 banks and 2,400 credit unions underwent rigorous scrutiny, resulting in a detailed survey of customer experiences spanning from July to September 2025.

The survey, which gathered feedback from over 66,000 U.S. customers, evaluated banks across 12 categories, including customer service, perks and benefits, fees, and interest rates. Additionally, data from over 70,000 participants from prior studies in 2024 and 2023 were also analyzed to gauge consistency and performance over time. The aggregate findings represent one of the largest studies of its kind, with responses from more than 140,000 individuals contributing to the rankings of the 500 highest-scoring banks and credit unions.

Commitment to Customers

John A. Medina, the President and CEO of First Federal Bank, expressed pride in this recognition, stating, “Being recognized as one of America's Best Regional Banks is a true testament to the trust our customers and communities place in First Federal Bank. By working side by side with those we serve, we're able to reach new milestones and build a stronger, more confident future, together.” This reflects the bank's deep commitment to understanding and meeting the financial needs of its customers.

At First Federal Bank, personalized financial advice and competitive interest rates are just a part of the experience. The bank also places a strong emphasis on assisting customers throughout the home buying process, making it easier for them to achieve their financial goals.

As Florida's only mutual savings bank, First Federal Bank has the unique advantage of reinvesting its profits directly back into the bank's operations. This not only promotes continuous improvement but also fosters innovation in its products and services, resulting in enhanced customer offerings and experiences.

About First Federal Bank

First Federal Bank is a community-oriented institution that provides a wide range of consumer and commercial banking solutions, services, and lending options through its network of offices across Florida’s Panhandle, North Central Florida, East Florida, and coastal South Carolina. The bank serves mortgage, SBA, and USDA customers through its lending offices across the Southeast and Midwest regions.

Headquartered in Lake City, Florida, First Federal Bank has amassed assets exceeding $4.2 billion and holds a prestigious “5-Star, Superior” financial rating from BauerFinancial, Inc. for more than two decades. In addition to recent accolades from Newsweek, the bank has been recognized for its commitment to quality banking services throughout its operational history.

For further details, interested individuals can visit First Federal Bank's website at www.ffbf.com.

Conclusion

The recognition of First Federal Bank as one of America's Best Regional Banks serves as a noteworthy example of how banks can successfully address customer needs while maintaining financial strength and commitment to innovation. As First Federal Bank continues on this trajectory, customers can look forward to an evolving banking experience marked by excellence and trust.