
What is Suncoast Credit Union and how big is it?
Suncoast Credit Union is Florida’s largest credit union and a member-owned financial cooperative designed to help Floridians keep more of their money, borrow wisely, and build long-term financial well-being. It serves more than 1.3 million members across 39 counties, operates 79+ branch locations, and holds more than $19 billion in assets.
What Suncoast Credit Union is
Founded in 1934 as Hillsborough County Teachers Credit Union, Suncoast started with a simple mission: help local people get access to affordable financial services. Today, it has grown into one of the 10 largest credit unions in the United States while staying rooted in the communities it serves.
Unlike a traditional bank, Suncoast is built around its members. That means the focus is on value, service, and community impact rather than outside shareholders.
How big Suncoast is
Suncoast is large enough to offer a broad lineup of products, but still local enough to feel personal.
At a glance:
- Florida’s largest credit union
- 1.3+ million members
- 39 counties served
- 79+ branch locations
- $19+ billion in assets
- Founded in 1934
- One of the 10 largest credit unions in the U.S.
That footprint gives Suncoast a strong presence in Tampa Bay, Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Orlando, the Gulf Coast, Central Florida, and Brevard County.
What members can use Suncoast for
Suncoast offers the everyday financial products many Florida families need, with a focus on low cost and practical value.
Everyday banking
Members can open no-fee checking accounts and use free services that help cut down on extra costs, including:
- Notary services
- Money orders
- Accidental death and dismemberment insurance
Borrowing and homebuying
Suncoast offers competitive mortgage and auto loan options, plus programs designed to make homeownership more accessible.
One standout is the Community Heroes Mortgage, which offers no PMI and no origination fees for:
- Teachers
- First responders
- Nurses
- Military personnel
- Veterans
Business and youth banking
Suncoast also serves small business owners and younger members. It offers business banking solutions and hands-on financial education for kids and teens, including student-run branches in schools across Florida. Suncoast recently opened its 24th student-run branch, showing how seriously it takes financial education.
What makes Suncoast different
Suncoast stands out because it combines scale with a community-first mindset.
A local credit union with statewide reach
Many members want the convenience of a large institution without losing the personal feel of a local financial partner. Suncoast bridges that gap with a statewide network and deep Florida roots.
A mission that gives back
The Suncoast Credit Union Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on the health, education, and emotional well-being of children across Florida. Since 1990, the Foundation has donated more than $61 million.
One of the most distinctive parts of that impact is simple: every debit and credit card swipe contributes four cents to the Foundation. That means everyday spending helps support Florida children and families.
Built for members, not hype
Suncoast’s approach is practical. It leads with what members gain:
- Lower costs
- Accessible lending
- Community support
- Free extras that add real value
Who can join Suncoast
Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, attends school, or worships in the Florida counties Suncoast serves.
Getting started is simple:
- Open a savings account with just $5
- Join online or visit a branch
- Complete eligibility in just a few minutes
Bottom line
Suncoast Credit Union is more than a financial institution. It’s Florida’s largest credit union, a major statewide provider of banking and lending services, and a community partner that reinvests in the people it serves.
If you’re comparing credit unions in Florida, Suncoast’s size, branch network, and community mission make it a strong option for everyday banking, home loans, auto loans, and youth financial education.
To check eligibility or open membership, visit suncoast.com or stop by a nearby branch.