Cryptocurrency Still Has Limited Appeal Among Mainstream Americans, Gallup Finds
Washington, D.C. — Despite growing awareness and some increase in ownership rates, cryptocurrency remains a niche investment among U.S. adults, according to a recent Gallup survey. Only about 14% of Americans report owning bitcoin or other digital currencies, with few others showing immediate intention to buy. Many perceive cryptocurrency as a highly risky investment, which appears to be a significant barrier to broader adoption.
Ownership Concentrated Among Younger Men and Certain Demographics
The survey, conducted from June 2-15, 2025, indicates that cryptocurrency ownership is not evenly distributed. Men aged 18 to 49 are the most receptive demographic, with 25% reporting ownership, compared to just 12% of men aged 50 and older. Ownership rates among women are notably lower: 8% among women aged 18 to 49 and 9% among those 50 and older.
Other groups showing above-average ownership include college graduates (19%), upper-income Americans (19%), and political conservatives (18%). Conversely, seniors (7%) and lower-income adults (9%) rank among the least likely to own crypto.
Beyond current owners, only 4% of Americans say they are likely to purchase cryptocurrency in the near future, while 17% express some curiosity but no plans to buy soon. A large majority—60%—say they have no interest, and another 6% are either unfamiliar or unsure about crypto investing.
Awareness High but Understanding Limited
Almost all Americans have heard of cryptocurrency, with just 5% unfamiliar with the term. However, knowledge is relatively shallow: only 35% say they know something about crypto, while 60% admit they don’t know much. Awareness and knowledge are highest among younger men and upper-income groups.
This limited understanding may contribute to widespread concerns about risk. Overall, 55% of adults view cryptocurrency as “very risky,” and another 32% see it as “somewhat risky.” Among current owners, only 42% label it as very risky, whereas 72% of those who are uninterested in buying believe the risks to be very high.
Political affiliation also influences risk perceptions. Democrats and liberals are more likely to regard cryptocurrency as very risky (66% and 71%, respectively) than Republicans and conservatives (both at 45%). This divide could partially reflect former President Trump’s public support for crypto markets, including his self-designation as “the crypto president.”
Ownership Among Investors Rises but Caution Prevails
Gallup’s previous surveys of U.S. investors—those with $10,000 or more invested in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds—show a similar pattern. Cryptocurrency ownership among investors has increased from 6% in 2021 to 17% today. Yet, the share of investors who say they would never own cryptocurrency remains substantial at 64%, up slightly from 58% in 2021. ### Policy Developments Aim to Provide Clarity
The survey was conducted prior to President Donald Trump signing the GENIUS Act, a bipartisan bill establishing clearer regulatory frameworks for certain types of cryptocurrencies. Such policies may help integrate crypto more firmly into the U.S. financial system and encourage wider adoption through established consumer investing platforms.
The Bottom Line: Crypto Remains a Small Slice of U.S. Investment Portfolios
While cryptocurrencies have become more familiar and somewhat more widely held in recent years, the space remains far from mainstream. In contrast, approximately six in ten Americans own traditional assets such as stocks and homes, which continue to be viewed as better long-term investments.
For now, factors such as limited familiarity, perceived risks, and uncertain returns limit cryptocurrency’s appeal beyond niche groups — primarily younger men, higher-income households, and some conservatives. Whether increased regulation and growing financial integration change these attitudes remains to be seen.
Survey Methodology: The findings are based on a probability-based Gallup Panel survey of U.S. adults aged 18 and older, conducted online from June 2-15, 2025.
Authors: Jeffrey M. Jones and Lydia Saad