Best CD Rates in North Carolina (2026)
15 FDIC-insured certificates of deposit ranked by our editors for North Carolina residents. Top rate: 4.45% APY on Openbank 12-Month CD. Online banks consistently beat local branch rates — lock in now before rates move.
4.35% APY; 12-month. April 2026.
4.40% APY; 13-month promo. April 2026.
4.30% APY; 12-month. April 2026.
4.25% APY; 12-month. April 2026.
4.22% APY; 12-month. April 2026.
4.28% APY; 12-month. April 2026.
4.24% APY; 12-month. April 2026.
4.28% APY; 18-month. April 2026.
4.15% APY; 6-month term. April 2026.
Don't Leave Money on the Table
You're earning 4.45% — but is your emergency fund also working this hard? And do you know the full tax picture?
High-Yield Savings
Need flexibility? HYSAs earn 4–5% APY with no lock-in
Unlike CDs, high-yield savings accounts let you withdraw anytime — ideal for your emergency fund.
Savings Growth
See what 4.45% APY earns over time
Enter your deposit amount and term to see exactly how much interest you'll earn — year by year.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best CD rates in North Carolina?
Top CD rates available in North Carolina reach 4.45% APY as of Q1 2026. Online banks consistently offer higher CD rates than local branches. All listed CDs are FDIC-insured up to $250,000.
Are CDs taxed in North Carolina?
CD interest is taxed as ordinary income — federally and at the NC level. Consider placing CDs in a Roth IRA to shelter the gains.
CD vs. high-yield savings account — which is better?
CDs lock in your rate for a fixed term (3 months to 5 years) and often pay more than HYSAs. HYSAs offer instant access but variable rates. Use a CD for money you won't need for 6–12+ months; use a HYSA for your emergency fund.
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FDIC insured up to $250K per depositor · APY rates as of Q1 2026 · Early withdrawal penalties apply · Not financial advice