This trend underscores the evolving landscape of investing in cryptocurrency, where potential volatility is met with an increasing appetite for opportunity. Our new survey dives deeper into this landscape, uncovering how U.S. crypto investors navigate this environment today — and their plans for the future.

Our survey reveals that most U.S. crypto holders (36%) believe cryptocurrency holds greater growth potential over traditional investments like stocks (34%), bonds (13%) and real estate (17%). 

However, when it comes to investing decisions, it’s also clear that the type of crypto investment matters deeply. For example, 70% of survey respondents indicated they prefer established coins like Bitcoin. By comparison, only 12% said they prefer memecoins (like Dogecoin), and 17% said emerging coins (like Solana). 

This finding could suggest a focus on longevity as investors prioritize coins with a longer history and a larger market cap. Many in the crypto market feel these coins are more resilient during periods of negative sentiment.

This suggests a strong comfort level with crypto as a potential investment, even when compared to other established asset classes. 

It also indicates a maturing cryptocurrency investor. While some may be chasing the next big thing, a significant portion sees crypto as a viable option for opportunistic investing, potentially alongside traditional assets like stocks.

A significant portion of those already investing in cryptocurrency express strong interest in continuing those investments in 2025. This includes approximately 73% of respondents who indicated a likelihood to invest (45% “Very Likely” and 29% "Somewhat Likely") in cryptocurrency within the next year. 

Those who indicated a higher household income were more likely to express interest in investing. This includes 82% of respondents with a household income of $175,000-$200,00+, indicating that they’re at least somewhat likely to invest in crypto in the next year. 

On the other end of the financial spectrum, over half (59%) of those in the lower-income categories ($0-$24,999) also plan to continue their investments. 

Questi investimenti continui, in aggiunta alla preferenza generale per le crypto rispetto agli altri investimenti tradizionali di cui sopra, sembra suggerire un certo livello di comfort e fiducia costante nel mercato delle criptovalute.

Indipendentemente dalla fascia di reddito, gli intervistati hanno dichiarato che le crypto consolidate offrono opzioni di investimento più interessanti, indicando che la valutazione del rischio costituisce una priorità per tutti.

While data highlights a growing interest in crypto across income levels, there are still hurdles to wider adoption. Nearly a third of respondents (31%) said positive price movement would increase their interest. 

Other key drivers of crypto adoption include: 

• Adoption by familiar institutions and enterprises (22%) 

• The passage of clear crypto regulations (21%)

• Endorsements by someone they trust (15%) 

• Negative price movement (8%)

Many respondents shared that seeing established institutions adopt crypto would increase their interest level and help validate the legitimacy of cryptocurrency. Similarly, the desire for increased crypto regulations highlights the importance of transparency among crypto entities and could also serve as a confidence booster among investors who are asking themselves, “Is cryptocurrency safe?” Without a defined framework, some may be hesitant to enter the crypto market due to concerns about potential legal ramifications or unexpected changes in regulations.

Our survey data revealed a surprising trend: Middle-aged adults (45-60) were the most likely (69%) to have invested in cryptocurrency. While younger generations are known for their digital fluency and openness to new technologies, it seems middle-aged adults are showing significant interest in cryptocurrency. 

We asked 2,191 U.S. residents over 18 years old if they had purchased crypto in the past. The following percentages show how many respondents in each age group said yes, they have purchased crypto. 

• 55% of respondents 18-29 years old 

• 49% of respondents 30-44 years old 

• 69% of respondents 45-60 years old 

• 20% of respondents older than 60

The data could suggest that middle-aged adults represent more seasoned investors who are likely less intimidated by potential market volatility. This ties back to our first point, which indicates an actively maturing crypto user.  

This speculation isn't to say younger generations are entirely out of the game. They still represent a significant portion of crypto investors. However, this new data suggests a broad range of demographics embracing crypto as an investment or even as the future of finance.

To gather these insights, we partnered with SurveyMonkey Audience to conduct a two-part survey of U.S. residents over 18 years old. An initial screening question (question one) allowed us to gather demographic data from a total of 2,191 respondents. This data is representative of the U.S. population over 18. Subsequent survey questions focused specifically on U.S. cryptocurrency holders, resulting in a more targeted sample of 1,146 respondents. The survey was completed on June 6, 2024, and the results have a 95% confidence level with a +/- 3% margin of error.           

For the purposes of this article, all mentions of "lower-income" refer to households falling within the 20th percentile or below the U.S. median income. All mentions of “higher-income” refer to households falling within the top 90th percentile. Income percentiles are calculated according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2022 Income in the United States report.

All of this data could indicate a maturing crypto market with a growing number of investors who are confident in their choices. 

Are you ready to explore the exciting world of crypto? Head to Kraken to start your crypto journey, or visit our educational resources to learn more.