Crypto Ownership in the U.S. Has Plateaued
Despite a surge in mainstream attention and regulatory moves like the GENIUS Act, cryptocurrency remains stuck on the fringes for most Americans. According to Gallup’s latest survey, conducted June 2–15, only 14% of U.S. adults currently own crypto—unchanged from previous years—and a mere 4% say they plan to invest soon.
These numbers land in stark contrast to recent market milestones, such as Bitcoin’s price recovery and ETF approvals. The stagnation highlights a deeper issue: while the crypto industry evolves, public perception hasn’t kept pace.
A Nation Divided by Age, Gender, and Income
Gallup’s data reveals clear demographic splits. A quarter of men under 50 own crypto, compared to just 8% of women in the same age group. Seniors remain largely disengaged, with only 7% owning digital assets.
Crypto ownership is also more common among the affluent and educated—19% of college graduates and high-income earners own crypto versus just 9% of lower-income respondents. Political leanings add another layer: 18% of conservatives report owning crypto, while only 11% of liberals do.
These divisions suggest that crypto’s reach is shaped less by universal utility and more by cultural and economic positioning.
The Knowledge Gap and the Risk Barrier
While 95% of Americans have heard of cryptocurrency, only 35% say they understand it. The knowledge gap is especially wide among women and older adults. Among men under 50, 59% report a basic grasp of crypto. That figure plummets to 22% among women over 50.
But understanding doesn’t always translate into trust. An overwhelming 87% of respondents view crypto as risky, and more than half label it “very risky.” Even among experienced investors, nearly two-thirds still consider it a speculative gamble.
Regulation Alone May Not Be Enough
The survey was conducted just before President Trump signed the bipartisan GENIUS Act, aimed at clarifying crypto rules. While regulatory clarity may encourage institutional engagement, Gallup’s data suggests it won’t be enough to change public sentiment on its own.
Until digital assets can prove broader utility and shake off their association with volatility and “tech bro” culture, widespread adoption will remain elusive.
Conclusion
Crypto has reached a recognition milestone—but not acceptance. Gallup’s findings show that deep-seated skepticism, knowledge gaps, and demographic disparities continue to limit the asset class’s reach. For now, crypto remains a high-risk play embraced by a narrow slice of Americans while the broader public stays on the sidelines.
