California Bank & Trust (CB&T), a leading financial institution in California, has once again been voted Best Bank in San Diego for the 16th consecutive year, and Best Commercial Bank for the 13th year in a row, in the 2026 San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll.
Since opening its doors in 1952, CB&T has built a legacy of serving California businesses, families and individuals with relationship-focused banking and personalized financial solutions. The bank combines local decision-making with the resources of a larger financial institution to help clients meet their goals, while also investing in the community it serves.
In San Diego, that commitment is reflected in CB&T’s role as a founding partner and the Official Bank of San Diego FC (SDFC), the region’s first Major League Soccer club. Through the partnership, CB&T continues to support programs that promote financial literacy, small business development and youth leadership, including SDFC’s Right to Dream Academy. In 2025, CB&T’s inaugural Drive the Dream Golf Tournament raised $75,000 for the academy’s scholarship fund, further underscoring the bank’s commitment to expanding access to educational and athletic opportunities for youth across the region. CB&T also teamed up with San Diego Surf to help broaden youth sports opportunities throughout the community.
“Being named Best Bank in San Diego reinforces how our teams show up for clients every day,” said CB&T President and CEO Eric Ellingsen. “We focus on delivering practical banking solutions and local insight to give our clients an exceptional banking experience.”
Each year, winners of the Readers Poll are chosen by readers of The San Diego Union-Tribune. Operating as San Diego’s largest media company and longest-running business, the San Diego Union-Tribune reaches more than 96% of the county’s households each week.
As a division of Zions Bancorporation, N.A., CB&T has also been recognized by Crisil Coalition Greenwich, a leader in the global financial services industry, for the past 17 years. This year, the bank received 15 Best Bank Awards for serving middle market and small business clients. CB&T is proud to be recognized for its high-ranking customer service and banking solutions, especially by such esteemed institutions.
To learn more about CB&T’s commitment to empowering California’s communities, visit calbanktrust.com. In addition, connect with CB&T on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About California Bank & Trust (CB&T): Headquartered in San Diego, California Bank & Trust has been helping California families and businesses thrive for over 70 years. With local decision-making backed by regional strength, CB&T’s knowledgeable bankers provide personalized solutions that go beyond what traditional banks offer.
CB&T has earned consistent recognition, including being voted:
• “Best Bank” by San Diego Union-Tribune readers for 16 consecutive years
• “Best Commercial Bank” for 13 years running
• “Best Bank” in The Orange County Register and Sacramento Bee readership polls
CB&T is a division of Zions Bancorporation, N.A. (NASDAQ: ZION) and has been recognized for its excellence in Middle-Market and Small Business banking by Coalition Greenwich Best Bank Awards.
Media Contact:
Sarah Bilyeu
California Bank & Trust
sarah.bilyeu@calbt.com
(619) 252-9111