Survey Reveals Americans' Concerns About Owning Bitcoin

A new national survey by the Bitcoin Policy Institute (BPI), Cygnal, and Neighborhood Bitcoin has shed light on how everyday Americans perceive Bitcoin. Conducted from March to June 2026, the research involved a national segmentation survey of 1,516 registered voters, eight in-person focus groups with non-owners, and a message-validation survey of 1,000 registered voters.

The study found that 94% of respondents had heard of Bitcoin, while 61% expressed interest in owning it. However, when asked about trusting the dollar to retain its value over time, only 26% were confident.

The research identified three phases: a segmentation survey, focus groups, and message-validation surveys. It found that effective messages addressed concerns rather than reciting Bitcoin's general merits. Top-performing themes included control, proven performance, security and access, and ease of use.

A majority of respondents (55%) were unsure whether Bitcoin can be purchased through major U.S. brokerages. When people's concerns were addressed directly, interest in Bitcoin rose significantly, indicating a need for clarity around safety, control, and where to start.