Cryptocurrencies Remain ‘Risky’ to Most US Investors Despite Eightfold Growth Since 2018: Gallup Survey

TL;DR

• Only 14% of US adults own cryptocurrencies, per the latest Gallup poll.
  
• 60% of Americans say they have no interest in buying crypto; just 4% plan to buy soon.
  
• Despite rising ownership, 64% of US investors classify crypto as “very risky.”
  
• Crypto ownership is skewed toward young men and high-income earners; women, older adults, and low-income groups remain underrepresented.
  
• Knowledge gaps persist: only 35% of respondents say they truly understand cryptocurrencies.
  

Rising Cryptocurrency Ownership But Persistent Skepticism

Cryptocurrency ownership among Americans has grown notably since 2018, rising from 2% to 14%, yet the majority remain wary. The recent Gallup survey conducted in mid-June 2025 reveals that while ownership rates have increased eightfold, most U.S. adults are reluctant to invest in digital assets.

The poll showed that 60% of respondents have no interest in acquiring cryptocurrencies, and only 4% plan to buy them soon. Interest is higher among younger adults and high earners, but significantly lower among women, seniors, and low-income households.

Demographic and Knowledge Divide

Ownership is heavily skewed:

• 1 in 4 men aged 18–49 owns crypto, versus a much lower percentage among women and older adults.
  
• College graduates and wealthier households report higher participation rates.
  
• Seniors and low-income Americans remain mostly absent from the market.
  

Despite near-universal awareness—almost all respondents had heard of cryptocurrencies—only 35% claimed to truly understand how they work. Understanding was highest among younger, wealthier men.

Perception of Risk Remains High Among Investors

Among U.S. investors holding $10,000+ in traditional assets like stocks or bonds, 55% classify cryptocurrency as “very risky.” This perception has increased from 60% in 2021 to 64% in 2025.

Past volatility and high-profile failures like the FTX bankruptcy and various scams have contributed to cautious retail sentiment. Though institutional entry into crypto markets has increased legitimacy, many retail investors remain hesitant after significant losses during the crypto winter.

Ownership Compared to Other Assets

According to the survey:

• Roughly 1 in 7 Americans owns cryptocurrency.
  
• Nearly 6 in 10 own stocks or real estate.
  
• Only 4% view crypto as the best long-term investment, highlighting widespread skepticism about its stability and growth prospects.
  

Cryptocurrency Ownership & Perception in the U.S.

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