Bitcoin has been around for over a decade and has been gaining popularity and acceptance as a legitimate means of exchange. While it was initially popular among tech enthusiasts, it has now become mainstream, with more and more people investing in it as a hedge against inflation and a store of value.
One of the most common ways to buy bitcoin is through online exchanges, where you can buy and sell bitcoin using fiat currency or other cryptocurrencies. However, if you prefer to buy bitcoin in person, there are a few stores in the USA that sell bitcoin.
1. Bitcoin ATMs
Bitcoin ATMs are becoming increasingly popular across the USA. These machines allow you to buy bitcoin using cash or debit/credit cards. There are over 10,000 Bitcoin ATMs across the USA, and they are usually located in convenience stores and gas stations.
To use a Bitcoin ATM, you will need to have a bitcoin wallet and scan the QR code on the machine. You can then insert cash or swipe your debit/credit card to buy bitcoin. Some popular Bitcoin ATM providers in the USA include Coinme, Coinflip, and Bitcoin Depot.
2. Crypto Exchanges
Many cryptocurrency exchanges have partnered with stores to provide a physical location where customers can buy and sell bitcoin. For example, in 2019, Coinbase announced a partnership with retail giant Walmart to allow customers to buy cryptocurrency at their stores.
Similarly, the cryptocurrency exchange Gemini has partnered with convenience store chain 7-Eleven to allow customers to buy bitcoin using the 7-Eleven app. Other popular cryptocurrency exchanges in the USA include Kraken, Binance, and Bitstamp.
3. Local Bitcoin Meetups
Bitcoin meetups are gatherings of bitcoin enthusiasts who come together to discuss and trade bitcoin. These meetups are usually organized by local bitcoin communities and are a great way to learn about bitcoin and meet other bitcoin enthusiasts.
In some cases, local bitcoin meetups may have sellers who are willing to sell bitcoin in person. If you are interested in buying bitcoin at a local meetup, you should research the meetup and its members beforehand to ensure that it is a legitimate and safe transaction.
4. Peer-to-Peer Marketplaces
Peer-to-peer marketplaces like LocalBitcoins and Paxful allow buyers and sellers to connect directly and trade bitcoin. These marketplaces are popular among people who want to buy bitcoin anonymously or who do not have access to traditional banking systems.
To buy bitcoin on a peer-to-peer marketplace, you will need to create an account and verify your identity. You can then browse through listings to find a seller who is selling bitcoin at a price you are comfortable with. Once you have found a seller, you can initiate a trade and transfer the agreed-upon amount of bitcoin to your wallet.
In conclusion, there are several stores in the USA that sell bitcoin, including Bitcoin ATMs, crypto exchanges, local bitcoin meetups, and peer-to-peer marketplaces. While buying bitcoin in person can be convenient, it is important to do your research and ensure that you are buying from a legitimate and safe seller.