Even though cryptocurrencies are becoming more accessible than ever, the vast majority of Americans still remain wary of this asset class.
Only 14% of U.S. adults own cryptocurrencies, according to a new Gallup poll conducted in mid-June. While that’s an eightfold increase from 2018, it still represents only a small fraction of investors.
The survey results reveal deep skepticism among Americans toward cryptocurrencies. Sixty percent of respondents stated they had no interest in purchasing cryptocurrencies, while only 17% expressed curiosity about these assets. Only 4% plan to purchase cryptocurrencies in the near future.
Gallup found that 55% of investors with over $10,000 in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds consider crypto “too risky.” Despite this, ownership among this group has risen to 17% from 2% in 2018.
The ongoing cautious approach to crypto hasn’t changed in recent years, despite clearer US regulations and a crypto-friendly president in office. Cryptocurrencies, which entered the mainstream with their 2021 surge, were subsequently eroded by a sharp decline, major bankruptcies like FTX, and various scams that eroded investor confidence.
Demographically, crypto ownership is most prevalent among men aged 18-49. This rate is significantly lower among women and older age groups. While college graduates and high-income individuals are showing greater interest in crypto, the elderly and lower-income groups are largely excluded.
There’s also a continuing lack of knowledge about cryptocurrencies. While nearly all survey participants said they’d heard of them, only 35% said they knew how they worked. The highest levels of knowledge in this area are concentrated among young men and wealthy individuals.
Even among those who claim to understand crypto, the vast majority still label the asset class as “risky.” The perception of it as “very risky” has risen from 60% in 2021 to 64% by 2025.
According to Gallup, one in seven adults in the US owns crypto, while about one in six owns stocks or real estate. Only 4% consider crypto the best long-term investment.
*This is not investment advice.