Bank plans 130 new branches across California

Last Updated on March 17, 2026 by The HD Post Staff

CALIFORNIA – Following its October 2025 plan to expand U.S. financial centers, BMO announced more than 130 new locations in California and about 15 in Arizona.

The move comes as banks shrink overall branch networks while targeting high-growth areas, aligning with BMO’s push for in-person, advice-driven banking in the West.

“These financial centers provide our clients more opportunity to meet face-to-face with our teams to discuss their goals for their business and personal financial lives, build trusted relationships, and receive personalized guidance that helps them make real financial progress,” BMO U.S. president Aron Levine.

BMO operates more than 220 financial centers in California. The new locations mark over 50% growth under its multi-year expansion strategy.

Western states like California and Arizona remain key targets due to population growth and increased competition among banks seeking deposits and lending opportunities.

New centers and hundreds of new jobs

As part of its broader U.S. expansion, BMO plans seven new California financial centers in 2026 across high-growth metro areas.

Planned 2026 openings include:

Greater Los Angeles: Three new financial centers
Bay Area: Two new financial centers
San Diego: Two new financial centers

Additional financial center locations will be announced later.

Across California and Arizona, BMO’s expansion marks a long-term investment in local communities and is expected to create hundreds of jobs over the next five years.

Industry shift toward financial advising

Industrywide, branches are shifting toward financial advising and relationship-based services rather than routine transactions.

BMO said the new centers will act as community banking hubs, providing in-person guidance, capital solutions, and locally tailored advice.