Banking charges for a sample customer can range from zero up to €112 per year, according a new report from the financial services regulator IFSRA.
The survey shows a wide variance of charges between the different banks and was published to coincide with the introduction of new banking rules to make it easier for customers to switch banks.
The survey takes a customer with an average balance of €50 at the end of each month who makes regular ATM withdrawals, uses a laser card for shopping and uses a cheque book, and has standing orders and direct debits. The customer also makes a number of Internet banking transactions.
On this basis the Ulster Bank U First Account is the most expensive, costing €112 per annum, with similar usage resulting in no charges from National Irish Bank's Freebank Account and the Permanent TSB Switch account.
Bank of Ireland's Pay As You Go account is the second most expensive at €85.96 per year, followed by AIB's Personal Bank Account Plus at €80.90.
The Ulster Bank Current account resulted in €66.90 worth of charges for the same usage while the Bank of Ireland Flat Fee account has an annual charge of €45.60.
The survey was produced to help customers compare costs based on their needs and to assist them in finding the cheapest account.
IFSRA suggests that customers wishing to move banks contact their new bank and ask for a "switching pack" that will provide a step by step guide of what to do.
Getting a new account up and running will take about 10 days following approval from the new bank, according to IFSRA.
However, the report notes that because banks have to levy a stamp duty charge of €10 on each ATM and laser card even if issued for only part of a year, customers may end up paying these charges twice in one year if they move banks. In some cases the new bank may offer to cover these charges.
This is going to change on January 1st, next year when each card will only be charged stamp duty once in any tax year.
IFSRA recommends that customers look at the levels of service such as the availability of Internet and telephone banking - which can cut costs - when considering moving to a new bank.