Nearly 40% of merchants in the United States now accept cryptocurrency at checkout, reflecting growing consumer demand for digital payment alternatives. A recent survey of 619 payment-strategy decision-makers, conducted in October, found that crypto is moving beyond early testing and becoming part of routine business operations.
According to the findings, almost 90% of merchants reported receiving customer inquiries about crypto payments, signaling strong interest from shoppers. Additionally, 84% of merchants believe crypto payments will become mainstream within the next five years, underscoring confidence in long-term adoption.
Customer Demand Drives Adoption Across Key Industries
Crypto acceptance is strongest among large enterprises, though adoption is also growing among small and midsized businesses, with 32% of midsize firms and 34% of small companies currently supporting crypto transactions. Several major U.S. retailers have already integrated crypto as a payment option.
Merchants cited benefits such as faster settlement, lower transaction costs, and greater payment flexibility. Among businesses already accepting crypto, these payments account for 26% of total sales, showing that customers actively use crypto when given the choice.
Younger Generations Lead Crypto Usage
Millennials and Gen Z consumers have emerged as the most crypto-savvy shoppers, pushing adoption forward. Industry uptake is highest in hospitality and travel, digital goods, and gaming.
Despite rising interest, merchants noted that simpler infrastructure is critical. Nearly 90% said they would adopt crypto if it were as easy to use as traditional card payments, highlighting usability as the next major hurdle for wider adoption.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.