Credit unions across Texas posted strong gains over the past year, with several institutions recording double-digit asset growth as they expanded their footprints in one of the nation’s most competitive financial services markets.

According to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence, the top 10 fastest-growing credit unions in Texas reported asset increases ranging from roughly 13% to more than 35%. The growth highlights the sector’s continued momentum as institutions invest in technology, broaden their reach and compete more aggressively with banks.

Leading the list was Light Commerce Credit Union in Houston, which saw a 38% increase in assets from 2024 to 2025.

Next in line was Catalyst Corporate Federal Credit Union in Plano, followed by U.S.I. Federal Credit Union and American Baptist Association Credit Union. Other high-performing institutions included Members Financial Federal Credit Union, Nizari Progressive Federal Credit Union and Texas Community Federal Credit Union. Wellspring Federal Credit Union, WesTex Community Credit Union and Texhillco School Employees Federal Credit Union also ranked among the state’s fastest-growing cooperatives.

Among the standouts was First Community Credit Union in Houston, whose assets grew 16.3% to nearly $3 billion. The performance reflects a broader trend of expansion among Texas-based credit unions seeking scale in major metropolitan areas.

“First Community places our members at the forefront of every decision we make, and that commitment continues to guide both our strategy and our growth,” TJ Tijerina, president and chief executive of First Community Credit Union, told Tyfone. “Our consistent asset growth has been driven primarily by intentional, organic growth, especially through strong lending performance across our existing Houston-area counties and our newer markets in Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio.”

First Community was already serving members in Houston and Dallas and has now added San Antonio and Austin into the mix, as well as 16 additional Texas counties.

Tijerina pointed to exceptional momentum in North Texas and emphasized the organization’s digital-first strategy and investments in infrastructure. “Completing our presence across the Texas Triangle represents a significant milestone and remains a central component of our future growth strategy,” he said, adding that the credit union remains open to potential acquisition or merger opportunities.

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Despite the rapid expansion, some community bankers say competition between banks and credit unions remains uneven. One Texas community bank chief executive, who declined to be identified, noted that his institution’s primary focus is small-business customers and said, “We really just don’t compete much with credit unions.”

Others, however, see increased competition in commercial real estate. Kelly Barclay, chief executive of Ozona Bank, which has $327 million in assets according to federal data, told Tyfone that credit unions are offering aggressive pricing.

“After visiting with my lending team, it appears CUs in our market are pricing CRE at treasury plus 2-3% with aggressive loan structures,” Barclay said. “We have learned they are financing a lot of out-of-state investors with projects in Texas, specifically CRE projects.”

The latest data underscores the growing influence of credit unions in Texas. As they expand into new markets and invest in digital capabilities, their rising asset base signals a continued reshaping of the state’s financial landscape.

Industry observers say the rapid growth of credit unions reflects broader shifts in consumer expectations and financial services delivery. As institutions invest in digital platforms and expand into high-growth metropolitan areas, they are increasingly positioned as formidable competitors within the state’s banking ecosystem.

But not everyone is pleased.

The Texas Bankers Association lists credit union oversight among its priorities for the year.

The group says credit unions receive government subsidies to provide basic consumer banking products to underserved groups and communities, but some are straying from their original mission. “This $2.3 trillion industry has no community benefit reporting requirements and receives minimal congressional oversight.”

It asks that Congress convene an oversight hearing and ensure that the credit union industry’s tax treatment aligns with its activities.

Together, the data illustrates a sector gaining momentum through scale, innovation and strategic expansion. As credit unions deepen their presence across Texas, their accelerating growth signals a shifting competitive dynamic in one of America’s most important financial markets — one that is likely to shape the future of community finance across the Lone Star State.

Data courtesy of S&P Global Market Intelligence.
Excludes corporate credit unions and institutions below $25 million in assets.