As Bitcoin adoption grows, some cities are embracing the technology as hubs for Bitcoiner-friendly businesses, events, and lifestyles.
This is an opinion editorial by Jenna Hall, content marketing specialist at residential real estate agency Redfin.
Bitcoin has taken the world by storm since its inception in 2009. In fact, roughly 46 million Americans own bitcoin. And as its popularity continues to grow, so does the desire of its adopters to use it in their daily lives.
As a result, various cities in the United States have become hotspots for Bitcoin enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and investors. Take a look at five cities that are leading the way in Bitcoin adoption and innovation, and what makes them such attractive destinations for Bitcoiners.
Seattle, Wash.
Washington state has a long history with Bitcoin and blockchain technology. In 2018, Wenatchee, a small town three hours east of Seattle, became an epicenter of bitcoin mining in the U.S. Since then, Washington cities like Seattle have seen a dramatic increase in both individuals and businesses interested in using digital currencies.
Seattleites can buy and sell their digital assets at any of the 202 Bitcoin ATMs in the city. Speaking of buying and selling, the state of Washington does not tax buying bitcoin — a unique perk for in-state Bitcoin enthusiasts.
Los Angeles California
As a major center of technology and innovation, Los Angeles has a growing number of companies and individuals experimenting with bitcoin and other digital currencies. Some people have even been able to successfully pay the rent for their apartments in los angeles using bitcoin.
The city has really embraced the use of blockchain technology, with many boutiques, restaurants, toy stores, florists, and other businesses accepting bitcoin as a form of payment. In 2021, the iconic Staples Center was Renowned Crypto.com Arenafurther consolidating the relationship that bitcoin and other digital currencies have with the city of Los Angeles.
Miami Florida
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez has made it clear that he is a proponent of digital currencies and wants to make Miami the “crypto capital.” In fact, in 2021, Mayor Suárez became the first US politician to officially take his municipal salary in bitcoins and, in a recent interviewhe said he still gets paid this way.
Every year, the city of Miami hosts various events and conferences for blockchain enthusiasts to attend, including the upcoming Bitcoin Conference 2023, the world’s largest Bitcoin conference. There is also a great opportunity to use bitcoin in everyday life there, since the city has around 886 Bitcoin ATMs and numerous shops, businesses and restaurants that accept bitcoin.
New York City, New York
With its prominence in both the financial and technological worlds, New York City is a top destination for both Bitcoin users and blockchain companies. The city’s position as a cryptocurrency hub was cemented in 2015 when the New York State Department of Financial Services introduced a licensing framework for virtual currency businesses, though many Bitcoin advocates have seen it as antagonistic to innovation.
Still the people living in new york have access to more 179 Bitcoin ATMs and Consensus, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency events, opened in the city in 2015. The city’s mayor, Eric Adams, has said that he would like New York to become a “Bitcoin hub.” , taking up the mantle of miami
San francisco California
Given that San Francisco is one of the biggest tech capitals in the world, it probably comes as no surprise that it’s also one of the top cities to live for Bitcoin users. The city is home to many well-known cryptocurrency exchanges that make buying and selling bitcoins possible, including Binance.US and coin base.
St Francis and Saint Joseph areas count 474 bitcoin ATMs and have a wide variety of businesses, restaurants, retail stores, nightclubs, hotels and bitcoin accepting property managers. The city also hosts many blockchain conferences and events, including the annual San Francisco Blockchain Week, when blockchain companies and enthusiasts come together from around the world to discuss the future of digital currencies.
The world of Bitcoin is constantly changing and evolving, as are the cities that adopt it. From New York to San Francisco and beyond, each of the country’s Bitcoin hotspots has something unique to offer. Whether you’re looking for a thriving startup scene or a supportive community of Bitcoin enthusiasts, these cities are sure to provide an exciting environment for anyone looking to deepen their involvement in the world of Bitcoin.
Redfin does not provide legal, tax or financial advice. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice from a licensed attorney, tax professional, or financial advisor.
This is a guest post by Jenna Hall. Opinions expressed are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of BTC Inc or Bitcoin Magazine.
