The SouthStar Difference

Austin's SouthStar Bank proves why community banking still matters

Real people, ready to help you.

Photo courtesy of SouthStar Bank

Choosing a bank is about more than interest rates and mobile apps. It's about finding a financial partner that understands your goals, knows your community, and is invested in your success. That's what sets SouthStar Bank apart.

Rather than operating from a distant corporate headquarters, SouthStar Bank is rooted in the communities it serves. Its bankers live, work, volunteer, and raise their families alongside the customers they serve, creating relationships built on trust, familiarity, and a genuine understanding of local needs.

Local decisions make a local difference
One of the greatest advantages of community banking is that important financial decisions are made locally.

Whether you're buying your first home, expanding a business, purchasing land, or financing a new opportunity, loan decisions are made by bankers who understand the local economy and the unique needs of the communities they serve. That local perspective allows for thoughtful, personalized solutions rather than one-size-fits-all decisions made hundreds of miles away.

A trusted partner through every stage of life
Financial needs change over time, and SouthStar Bank is committed to helping customers navigate every milestone.

From youth savings accounts that teach healthy financial habits to no-fee checking accounts, home loans, business banking, and retirement planning, the bank offers products and guidance designed to grow alongside its customers. Whether you're opening your very first account or planning for retirement, SouthStar Bank is there every step of the way.

Banking built on relationships
In today's increasingly automated world, personal service has become a rarity.

At SouthStar Bank, customers are welcomed by name, not by an account number. When they call, a real person answers the phone. Questions are answered by local bankers who know their customers and are committed to providing responsive, personalized service.

That relationship-first approach creates an experience that's difficult to find at larger financial institutions.

Investing where it matters most
Community banking extends far beyond the walls of the bank. SouthStar Bank proudly reinvests in the communities it serves by supporting local schools, PTOs, booster clubs, chambers of commerce, nonprofit organizations, and community events. Those investments help strengthen neighborhoods, support local businesses, and create opportunities for future generations.

When customers choose SouthStar Bank, they're also helping support the communities they call home.

Banking with purpose
Community banking is built on relationships, local knowledge, and a shared commitment to helping neighbors succeed. At SouthStar Bank, every account opened, every loan approved, and every community partnership reflects a simple philosophy: when local people invest in local communities, everyone benefits.

SouthStar Bank offers the personal service, local expertise, and trusted guidance to help you reach your financial goals at every stage of life. Find a location near you.

Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. All loans subject to approval. Other fees and restrictions may apply. NMLS #410624.

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Flood Response

Hill Country foundation launches new flood relief fund for 2026

People look out at flood on July 16, 2026 in Center Point, Texas

Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images

The same foundation that collected more than $60 million for the 2025 floods has launched a new fund for 2026.

Austinites looking to support Hill Country neighbors affected by floods over the past two days can turn to the same organization they did for the July 2025 floods: The Community Foundation of the Hill Country has launched a new Texas Hill Country Flood Relief Fund that is accepting donations now.

The foundation emphasizes that the two funds are distinct (last year's was called the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund), so donors should note that their contributions will specifically go toward Hill Country residents affected by the current floods. The money raised will offer emergency assistance and long-term recovery support.

Texas governor Greg Abbott confirmed that at least one person has died as a result of the flooding. Harsh weather is not over yet. The National Weather Service (NWS) has a flood watch currently active through portions of South and Central Texas (around Austin and San Antonio) until noon on Friday, July 17. Early on Thursday, July 16, the NWS also forecast a flood crest along the Guadalupe River that was higher than any since 1900.

Yesterday, July 15, the governor declared a disaster in 59 counties including Travis to help emergency services respond quickly.

Although many regional businesses, churches, and other groups organized donations for the 2025 floods, the Community Foundation was the main entity holding and distributing funds. The Kerr County Flood Relief Fund totaled more than $60 million by the end of that July.

"Our hearts break that the Texas Hill Country is once again facing catastrophic flooding. Just one year after the devastating July 2025 floods, many of our neighbors are again in harm's way," said Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country CEO Austin Dickson. "People from across Texas and around the world came together to help Kerr County begin the long road to recovery. As first responders and local and state officials continue their response efforts, the Community Foundation's role is to help ensure communities have the philanthropic resources they need to recover in the weeks, months and years ahead."