57% of Spaniards maintain cash as the primary payment method in physical establishments, the same as in 2025. This is reflected in a study by the Bank of Spain.
According to AZARplus, 57% of Spaniards continue to pay in cash in physical establishments, the same percentage as in 2025. The data comes from the latest study on cash usage habits published by the Bank of Spain.
The report is based on 5,038 interviews with citizens and 1,619 with small businesses and hospitality establishments. Payments with mobile devices are now the primary option for 18% of the population, up from 15% the previous year, while physical card usage has decreased from 27% to 25%.
On the business side, 61% report receiving the majority of their income through cards or other electronic means, five points more than in 2025. Establishments where cash accounts for the majority of revenue have decreased from 39% to 31%.
Despite this trend, 92% of respondents reject a cashless society. 71% highlight its usefulness in the event of electronic failures and fraud, compared to 62% last year, and 36% keep cash on hand for unforeseen circumstances, four points more than in 2025.
According to the Bank of Spain, cash remains an important option for both households and businesses, and the problem arises when there is no alternative payment method. The executive report is available in PDF format.
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