PayPal Latest Survey: Nearly 40% of US Merchants Support Crypto Payments, Young Consumers Become Key Drivers

January 28 News, American merchants’ acceptance of cryptocurrency payments is steadily increasing. The latest survey jointly released by PayPal and the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA) shows that approximately 39% of American merchants have now integrated cryptocurrencies into their payment options. This change is not just conceptual but driven by genuine consumer demand.

The survey indicates a significant increase in merchant interest in cryptocurrencies. About 88% of respondents said they have been asked by customers whether they support cryptocurrency payments, with 69% reporting that such inquiries occur at least once a month. Notably, 84% of business leaders believe that cryptocurrency payments will become mainstream within the next five years, reflecting the business community’s recognition of the long-term prospects of digital assets.

In terms of company size, large corporations are leading the way. Among companies with annual revenues exceeding $500 million, about half already support cryptocurrencies. The proportions for small and medium-sized enterprises are 34% and 32%, respectively. In industry distribution, travel and hospitality, gaming and digital content, and high-end retail are the main driving forces. These sectors often have a high proportion of online transactions and a user base more familiar with new technologies, leading to faster adoption.

For merchants already accepting cryptocurrency payments, this is not an edge case. The report shows that some companies’ cryptocurrency-related revenue accounts for more than a quarter of their total sales. Seventy-two percent of merchants said that sales from cryptocurrencies have continued to grow over the past year, which is also a key reason they choose to retain this payment method.

Of course, obstacles remain. About 90% of merchants admit that if the process of integrating cryptocurrency payments could be as simple as credit cards, they would adopt it immediately. Payment tool integration, settlement efficiency, and regulatory clarity are still the most concerning issues for businesses. Meanwhile, payment speed, customer acquisition, and privacy protection have become the most attractive advantages of cryptocurrencies.

This survey was completed in October 2025, covering approximately 619 payment decision-makers in the retail, travel, and digital goods industries, and the results were announced at the end of January 2026. As tools continue to mature and regulations gradually clarify, American merchants’ acceptance of cryptocurrency payments still has room for further expansion.