Compare top banks for the Discovery Islands' most remote inhabited island
On Vancouver Island, online banking matters more than branch access. KOHO is 100% online — no fees, cash back on groceries, and works anywhere on the Island.
Get KOHO Free — Code 45ET55JSYACortes Island is one of BC's most remote permanently inhabited islands — a two-ferry journey from Campbell River through Quadra Island, placing it in the outer Discovery Islands between Vancouver Island and the BC mainland coast. Home to around 1,000 permanent residents and the renowned Hollyhock Retreat Centre, Cortes Island attracts artists, seekers, back-to-the-landers, and those seeking deep community connection and extraordinary natural beauty.
Getting to Cortes requires the Campbell River–Quadra Island ferry, then the Quadra–Cortes ferry, a total journey of about 90 minutes from Campbell River. This significant transportation barrier makes Cortes one of the most genuinely isolated communities in southern BC — and means that banking infrastructure is essentially nonexistent on the island itself. Residents bank in Campbell River, which may be a full day's journey away depending on ferry schedules.
Digital banking is not merely preferable on Cortes — it is essential. KOHO provides zero-fee banking with full digital functionality, making it the top recommendation for Cortes Island residents. No minimum balance, no transaction fees, cash back on everyday spending, and accessible anywhere there is cell or internet service. EQ Bank's high-interest savings accounts help remote island residents maximize earnings on savings that might otherwise languish in traditional accounts.
Real estate on Cortes, while remote, is no longer cheap — the island's deep desirability among seekers of authentic island living has driven prices higher. Properties range from $400,000 for basic acreage to $900,000+ for waterfront or community-adjacent homes. Cortes has limited new development, meaning resale market dynamics dominate.
Use our BC PTT calculator for exact closing costs and see best banks in BC.
| # | Institution | Type | Best For | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | KOHO | Fintech | No fees, cash back | $0 |
| 2 | EQ Bank | Online | High-interest savings | $0 |
| 3 | Island Savings Credit Union | Credit Union | Remote island, digital banking critical | $0–$5 |
| 4 | TD Canada Trust | Big 5 | Everyday banking, branches | $4–$30 |
| 5 | RBC Royal Bank | Big 5 | Full-service, mortgages | $4–$30 |
| 6 | Scotiabank | Big 5 | Scene+ rewards | $4–$27 |
Estimate your PTT for a Cortes Island home purchase. Full BC PTT guide →
No bank branches exist on Cortes Island. All banking is managed digitally via KOHO, EQ Bank, or major bank mobile apps. For in-person banking, residents travel to Campbell River.
KOHO is ideal — fully digital, no fees, no branch needed, works anywhere with internet. Use code 45ET55JSYA. EQ Bank handles savings and GICs equally well online.
PTT on $650K: $2,000 + $9,000 (on $450K at 2%) = $11,000. First-time buyer resale exemptions apply below $500K. Use the calculator above.