Desert Financial Credit Union Recognized in Forbes Best-In-State List for Arizona

What's Happening?

Desert Financial Credit Union has been acknowledged on the Forbes list of Best-In-State Credit Unions for 2025, marking its seventh consecutive year in the top five for Arizona. This recognition is based on a survey conducted by market research firm Statista, which involved over 26,000 U.S. residents. Participants evaluated credit unions on various criteria such as trust, financial advice, customer service, digital services, and branch services. The survey responses contributed to 80% of the scoring, while the remaining 20% was derived from an analysis of more than 500,000 publicly available reviews and ratings collected between February 2022 and March 2025. Desert Financial CEO Jeff Meshey expressed pride in the recognition, emphasizing the credit union's commitment to member trust and community service.

Why It's Important?

The inclusion of Desert Financial Credit Union in Forbes' list highlights the institution's strong reputation and reliability in the financial sector, particularly in Arizona. This recognition can enhance the credit union's credibility and attract more members, thereby potentially increasing its market share. As a not-for-profit cooperative, Desert Financial's success is shared with its members, evidenced by the $16 million in dividends distributed in 2025. The credit union's partnerships with prominent organizations like Arizona State University and the Arizona Cardinals further solidify its position as a key player in the local economy. Such accolades can influence consumer choices, driving more individuals towards credit unions as viable alternatives to traditional banks.

What's Next?

Desert Financial Credit Union is likely to continue its efforts to maintain high standards in customer service and community engagement, aiming to secure its position in future rankings. The credit union may leverage this recognition to expand its membership base and enhance its service offerings. Additionally, ongoing partnerships with local institutions could lead to new initiatives that further integrate the credit union into the community. As the financial landscape evolves, Desert Financial may also focus on advancing its digital services to meet the growing demand for online banking solutions.