Gen Z Ditches Cash: More Than Half Prefer Digital Payments

According to a recent Cash App-Harris Poll survey, over 50% of Gen Zers only use cash when absolutely necessary, with nearly a third of respondents labeling people who pay with cash as "out of touch" or "cringe." The survey, which polled over 2,000 U.S. adults from September 25-29, highlights the growing trend of digital payments among younger generations. The results of the survey are not surprising, given the increasing popularity of digital payment methods. In 2025, cash ranked as the third-most-used payment method, behind credit and debit cards, according to the Federal Reserve's Financial Services 2025 Diary of Consumer Payment Choice. This shift away from cash is particularly pronounced among Gen Zers, who are more likely to use digital payment methods due to their comfort with technology and the convenience of contactless transactions. "It's not that cash is bad, it's just that there's really no advantage to using it," said a 22-year-old respondent to the survey. "I don't see the point in carrying around a wallet when I can just use my phone to pay." The trend towards digital payments is not limited to Gen Zers, but they are leading the charge. A 2024 Gen Z Reddit forum revealed that some members of the community are so opposed to using cash that they will forgo shopping at stores that only accept cash. "I don't carry my wallet with me anymore and just carry my ID," wrote one user. The shift away from cash has significant implications for businesses, particularly those that rely heavily on cash transactions. As more consumers turn to digital payment methods, businesses will need to adapt to meet the changing needs of their customers. The Cash App-Harris Poll survey provides valuable insights into the preferences and behaviors of Gen Zers, a demographic that is increasingly influential in the market. As the trend towards digital payments continues to grow, businesses will need to stay ahead of the curve to remain competitive. The survey's findings suggest that the use of cash is becoming increasingly stigmatized among younger generations, with many viewing it as a relic of the past. As digital payment methods continue to evolve and improve, it is likely that the use of cash will continue to decline.