(877) 538-2860
Cash Is Still Part of How America Pays
Digital payments continue to grow, but current Federal Reserve research shows that consumers still carry, use and expect to keep using cash. For many businesses, convenient cash access remains a relevant customer amenity.
What Current Federal Reserve Data Shows
These findings come from the Federal Reserve’s 2026 Diary of Consumer Payment Choice, which reports on consumer behavior during 2025.
Used Cash Recently
Four out of five consumers used cash during the 30 days covered by the survey.
Plan to Keep Using It
Nine in ten consumers said they expect to continue using cash in the future.
Carried Cash
Most consumers carried cash in a pocket, purse or wallet during the survey period.
Average Carried
The average amount carried by consumers who held cash for everyday use.
Source: Federal Reserve Financial Services — 2026 Diary of Consumer Payment Choice
What These Numbers Mean for Businesses
The opportunity is not about replacing digital payments. It is about giving customers another dependable way to access and use their money.
Payment Choice Still Matters
Customers use different payment methods in different situations. On-site cash access lets your location serve people who prefer or need cash at that moment.
Convenience Supports the Visit
An ATM can keep customers from leaving the property to find cash, helping preserve the visit and the opportunity to complete an intended purchase.
Each Withdrawal Can Create Value
For an ATM owner, approved withdrawals may generate surcharge revenue while also making cash immediately available for on-site spending.
ATMs Serve a Broad Range of Consumers
The FDIC estimated that 19 million U.S. households were underbanked in 2023. These households had a bank account but also used nonbank financial services. Convenient cash access can remain especially meaningful for consumers managing money across different channels.
Source: FDIC 2023 National Survey of Unbanked and Underbanked Households
Four Factors That Shape ATM Performance
No statistic can guarantee transaction volume. A realistic evaluation should focus on the location itself and how customers use it.
Customer Traffic
How many people visit and how long they remain on-site.
Cash Demand
Whether purchases, tips or services commonly involve cash.
Placement
Visibility, accessibility, lighting, power and connectivity.
Program Fit
Ownership, partnership or qualified full-service placement.
Could an ATM Work at Your Location?
Estimate the potential opportunity based on your expected traffic and surcharge, or start with Ocean ATM’s recommended Genmega G2500 for independent businesses.
