Top U.S. Cities Leading the Shift to Cashless Digital Payments in 2025
Upgraded Points Study: Leading Cashless Cities in the U.S.
In a compelling study released by Upgraded Points, a travel and points maximization company based in Austin, Texas, the craft of digital payments is altering the list of the best cities across the United States. As society gradually shifts away from cash, cities that champion electronic payment systems are reshaping how residents manage their finances and shop for goods and services.
The Rise of Cashless Transactions
With advancements in technology, cash is increasingly viewed as obsolete. Digital payment methods, such as Apple Pay, cryptocurrency transactions, and various contactless options, are at the forefront of this transition. Keri Stooksbury, the editor-in-chief at Upgraded Points, asserts that digital payments significantly enhance economic interactions, reflecting a broader trend in modern economies.
How the Study Was Conducted
To identify the cities making strides in digital payment acceptance, Upgraded Points analyzed the most populated 100 cities in the U.S. They assessed the prevalence of businesses across five key categories: restaurants, shopping venues, beauty and spa services, health and medical establishments, and entertainment options. The research focused on the number of businesses accepting various digital payment forms—including Apple Pay, Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies—and assigned each city a score between 0 and 100, indicating the extent of their cashless adoption. The results were adjusted for population size for equitable comparison.
Top 15 U.S. Cities to Go Cashless
1. Sarasota, Florida
2. Greenville, South Carolina
3. Honolulu, Hawaii
4. Miami, Florida
5. Daytona Beach, Florida
6. Poughkeepsie, New York
7. Fort Myers, Florida
8. New Haven, Connecticut
9. Charleston, South Carolina
10. San Francisco, California
These cities lead the cashless charge, showcasing a robust acceptance of digital payment techniques that go beyond traditional transactional methods.
Cities Leading in Apple Pay Acceptance
In the realm of businesses accepting Apple Pay, the top cities include:
- - Los Angeles – 1,131 businesses
- - New York City – 1,127 businesses
- - San Francisco – 1,068 businesses
- - Chicago – 941 businesses
- - Washington, D.C. – 791 businesses
Cryptocurrency Adoption
The digital currency landscape also finds representation in these evolving cities. For cryptocurrency, the leading cities include:
- - Phoenix – 37 businesses
- - San Francisco – 36 businesses
- - Las Vegas – 35 businesses
- - Los Angeles and New York City – 29 businesses each
Conclusion
This study shines a spotlight on how digital payment methods are not just a passing trend but are fundamentally changing the way Americans conduct financial transactions. The embrace of technologies enhancing payment efficiency among these cities is a significant indicator of future economic behaviors and consumer adaptability. In a world that grows more digital by the day, understanding where these changes are most embraced can guide both consumers and businesses in their financial journeys.
About Upgraded Points LLC
Founded in 2016 by Alex Miller, Upgraded Points LLC focuses on demystifying the complex landscape of travel and credit cards. Their research endeavors aim to assist travelers in optimizing their points and enhancing travel experiences. For further insights, visit UpgradedPoints.com.
Topics Consumer Technology）
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