The news: Chime is attracting higher-income customers as it expands beyond its more limited “Get Paid Early” roots, according to its Q3 2026 earnings.

Consumers earning at least $75,000 annually are Chime's fastest-growing customer segment, with more setting up direct deposits to qualify for its Chime Prime membership. 

Diversiftying ts customer base has contributed to growth across the board:

• Revenues increased 32% YoY to $718 million.
• Active members grew 20% YoY to 10.9 million.
• Average revenues per active member rose 10% to $270.
• Platform-related revenue, which includes lending products, increased 52% YoY to $274 million.
• Net income reached $44 million.

Why it matters: Chime is evolving from a banking alternative into a more comprehensive financial services provider, using direct deposits as a gateway to deeper, more profitable customer relationships.

The payoff is significant: Prime members generate more than twice the average revenues per active member, per Chime. They also spend more through Chime cards, maintain larger balances, and use more financial products.

In summer, Chime also rolled out Chime Invest to all members, introduced joint accounts, and began testing a new line of credit for Prime members. 

The strategy is also improving Chime's economics. Its lifetime customer value-to-acquisition cost ratio reached nearly 10x in Q3.

Implications for banks: Chime's move upmarket raises the stakes for traditional banks as it strengthens its lead over smaller digital-only competitors.

We forecast Chime's US accountholders will grow from 11.2 million in 2026 to 13.8 million by 2030, while competitors flatline. Its expanding product lineup and success attracting higher earners give it more opportunities to capture deposits, cross-sell products, and increase revenue per customer.