Cryptocurrency Still Has Limited Main Street Appeal, Gallup Poll Finds
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Despite increased visibility and growing media attention, cryptocurrency ownership among American adults remains limited, with only about one in seven (14%) owning bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies as of mid-2025. Moreover, the majority of Americans express little interest in purchasing digital currencies in the near future, largely due to perceptions of high risk associated with these investments, according to a recent Gallup poll.
Ownership Concentrated Among Younger Men and Affluent Groups
The Gallup survey, conducted June 2-15, 2025, reveals significant demographic differences in cryptocurrency ownership. Men aged 18 to 49 are the most receptive group, with 25% reporting ownership. In contrast, ownership rates drop markedly among older men (12%) and women across age groups, with only 8% of women aged 18 to 49 and 9% of women 50 and older owning cryptocurrency.
Higher ownership levels are also seen among college graduates (19%), upper-income Americans earning more than $100,000 annually (19%), and political conservatives (18%). Conversely, seniors and lower-income adults are comparatively unlikely to own cryptocurrencies, with rates around 7-9%.
Limited Interest in Buying Cryptocurrency
In addition to current owners, just 4% of U.S. adults say they probably will buy cryptocurrency soon. Another 17% express some intrigue about the asset class but do not plan to invest immediately. However, a significant 60% announce they have no interest in buying cryptocurrencies, citing risk concerns as the main deterrent. About 6% are either unfamiliar with cryptocurrency or uncertain about purchasing it.
Ownership and Interest in Context
Gallup’s recent data marks a steady rise in cryptocurrency ownership among U.S. investors (defined as adults with at least $10,000 invested in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds), growing from 6% in 2021 to 17% today. Despite this growth, skepticism remains high: 64% of investors say they would never own cryptocurrency, an increase from 58% in 2021. This highlights that cryptocurrency is still far from being a mainstream investment.
Awareness and Perception of Risk
While virtually all Americans (95%) have at least heard of cryptocurrency, only about a third (35%) report knowing something about it. Familiarity is highest among younger men (59%) and upper-income individuals (45%). Nevertheless, concerns about risk are widespread, with 55% describing cryptocurrency as “very risky” and another 32% labeling it “somewhat risky.” Among current owners, 42% consider it very risky, compared to 72% of those not interested in buying.
Political affiliations also influence risk perceptions. Democrats and liberals are more likely to view cryptocurrency as very risky (66% and 71%, respectively) than Republicans and conservatives (both 45%), possibly reflecting differing public narratives around cryptocurrency regulation and promotion.
Regulatory Developments and Future Outlook
The poll was conducted prior to President Donald Trump’s signing of the GENIUS Act, a bipartisan law created to establish a regulatory framework for some types of cryptocurrencies. This development may lead to clearer rules and greater integration of cryptocurrencies into the U.S. financial system. However, according to Gallup’s analysis, factors such as limited familiarity and concerns about investment returns continue to hinder widespread adoption.
Still, cryptocurrency remains a niche asset relative to established investments like stocks and real estate — each owned by about six in ten Americans, according to Gallup’s latest estimates. Reflecting this, only 4% of respondents named cryptocurrency as the best long-term investment, underscoring public caution.
Conclusion
Gallup’s research illustrates that while cryptocurrency ownership has grown steadily since 2021, it remains a marginal component of the American investment landscape. Interest is mostly confined to younger men, higher-income earners, and politically conservative individuals. For most Americans, concerns about risk and a lack of deep understanding mean cryptocurrency has yet to achieve “main street” appeal or become a routine investment choice. Future regulatory clarity and enhanced consumer education may change this dynamic, but for now, cryptocurrency’s broader mainstream adoption faces significant hurdles.
This article is based on the Gallup survey of U.S. adults conducted June 2-15, 2025, using the probability-based Gallup Panel.