16 Mar 2025

light mode

Can You Really Live Off Crypto? Here’s What It Takes

Can You Really Live Off Crypto? Here’s What It Takes

Picture this: no cash, no credit cards—just crypto. You buy your morning coffee with BTC, book flights through a crypto travel platform, and even pay rent in digital assets. Sounds like science fiction? It’s already happening for thousands of people worldwide.

On this page

Thinking about ditching traditional money? In this article, we break down whether it’s actually possible to live entirely on crypto—and what you need to know before making the switch.

Making a Living in Crypto—Where Do You Start?

Step one of a crypto-powered life? Earning it. Many assume only traders, investors, or miners can make money in crypto, but there’s a whole world beyond that. Freelancers can get paid in crypto through platforms like Cryptojobs and LaborX.

From designers to developers, remote workers now serve clients across the globe. One pays in ETH, another in stablecoins, and some even offer startup tokens with huge future potential. As more businesses embrace crypto payments, earning and spending digital assets is becoming easier than ever.

Getting paid in crypto instead of buying it? That’s the smart play. It means you’re accumulating assets without spending fiat—and positioning yourself for early-stage investments in game-changing blockchain projects.

More and more people are choosing freelancing as a way to earn cryptocurrency – The Coinomist
Freelancing is emerging as a lucrative way to earn cryptocurrency. Source: Reddit

Crypto is more than just a speculative asset—it’s a full-fledged economy. Many freelancers now rely on it as their primary source of income, whether by developing smart contracts, creating content for the crypto industry, or testing new Web3 platforms, all while earning in digital tokens.

Сheck this out: The Most Inspiring Success Stories in Web3

But beyond earning through work, crypto can also generate passive income. Staking and liquidity provision in DeFi protocols allow investors to put their holdings to work, earning steady yields. Unlike traditional savings accounts, returns are often higher, though risks vary by platform.

In addition, Play-to-Earn and SocialFi movements are gaining traction, rewarding users with crypto for gaming and social media activity.

Where Can You Spend Crypto in Everyday Life?

While the digital economy is still in its early stages, demand is surging. As crypto adoption expands, major retailers and luxury brands are integrating crypto payments, offering seamless transactions for everything from fine dining to real estate—turning digital wealth into tangible assets.

Paying for Goods and Services with Crypto

Owning crypto is great, but spending it seamlessly is even better. That’s where crypto payment cards come in. These cards function just like traditional bank-issued plastic but are tied directly to your crypto wallet. No need to manually exchange digital assets—whether you're dining out or shopping, your crypto is instantly converted into fiat at the point of sale.

Leading the charge are Binance Card, WhiteBIT Nova, Crypto.com Visa, Wirex, and Nexo Card, each offering unique benefits:

  • Binance Card – A premium offering from the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, supporting multiple digital assets with up to 8% cashback. Low fees make it attractive, though availability is limited, and verification is required.
  • Crypto.com Visa – A high-reward card from Crypto.com that offers up to 5% cashback and premium perks like free Spotify and Netflix subscriptions. However, maximizing rewards requires a substantial CRO token stake.
  • WhiteBIT Nova – A top-tier card from Europe’s leading exchange, WhiteBIT, tailored for EU users. It features a virtual version for seamless Apple Pay/Google Pay integration, up to 10% cashback on purchases, and no fees for issuance, maintenance, or closure.
  • Wirex – A versatile multi-currency crypto card with cashback rewards, though availability is restricted in some regions, and transaction blocks can be an issue.
  • Nexo Card – A smart way to spend crypto while keeping your assets intact as collateral. However, loan rates fluctuate with market shifts, and regulatory challenges make it crucial to scrutinize the lending terms.
WhiteBIT Nova is a crypto debit card ideal for European residents – The Coinomist
WhiteBIT Nova – A seamless debit card solution tailored for crypto users across Europe. Source: theportugalnews

Can’t get a crypto card in your country?

No worries—there are plenty of ways to spend your digital assets. In many cities across Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S., businesses ranging from coffee shops to dental clinics accept BTC and ETH. In Germany, for example, you can even buy groceries at major supermarkets using BitPay.

Another smart option? Gift cards purchased with crypto. Many platforms let you trade digital assets for vouchers, which can be used for Apple Store, Amazon, Uber, and more. It’s an easy way to pay where crypto isn’t accepted—and an excellent gift idea for fellow crypto enthusiasts!

Living off Crypto: Rent, Bills, and More

Major expenses? No problem—crypto is moving beyond small purchases and making its way into real estate and utilities.

In Dubai, Thailand, and top-tier U.S. cities, it’s already common for landlords to accept rent in BTC, ETH, and stablecoins—some even take DOGE. In Miami, luxury apartments cater specifically to crypto enthusiasts, requiring digital assets for payments.

Beyond housing, Switzerland has embraced Bitcoin for tax payments, and in Northern Cyprus, residents can cover utility bills in USDT via PayPoint Cyprus.

The integration of cryptocurrency into daily life is expanding. In certain countries, public transportation systems now accept crypto cards, allowing users to pay for metro and bus rides with digital assets. Airlines like AirBaltic and booking platforms like CheapAir and Travala have also opened their doors to Bitcoin transactions, making global travel easier for crypto enthusiasts.

Car rental services have followed suit—some providers let customers rent a vehicle without a bank card, requiring only a crypto transfer for payment.

The entertainment sector is also embracing crypto. From purchasing games on Microsoft Store to funding gaming accounts on Steam, digital assets are increasingly becoming a go-to payment method.

Did you know you can pay for Spotify with crypto? Thanks to services like Bitrefill, streaming your favorite music is now blockchain-friendly.

And if you’re dining out in Dubai or London, don’t be surprised if the waiter expects crypto, too! Many restaurants now accept digital payments—not just for meals but even for tipping. Just scan a QR code on the menu, and your gratuity lands directly in the staff’s crypto wallet.

The Challenges of a Crypto-First Lifestyle

Relying on cryptocurrency for daily expenses presents a unique set of risks. Price volatility is a constant factor—what seems like a comfortable budget today might shrink dramatically tomorrow due to market fluctuations.

Regulatory frameworks also add complexity. Countries such as China and Turkey prohibit crypto payments, while Russia restricts their use for goods and services. In India, regulatory policies remain unpredictable, often shifting between acceptance and heavy restrictions.

Need fiat in a pinch? Crypto ATMs have you covered. Installed in almost every major city worldwide, they allow seamless conversion of crypto into cash—except in certain Muslim countries where digital assets remain banned.

With the help of a crypto ATM, you can always convert cryptocurrency into fiat money – The Coinomist
With the help of a crypto ATM, you can always convert cryptocurrency into fiat money. Source: CCN

However, accessibility isn’t the only factor—security is key. Storing crypto on exchanges poses significant risks, as hacking incidents can lead to total asset loss. The optimal approach? Hardware wallets like Ledger or Trezor, which provide top-tier protection for long-term storage.

A 100% crypto-powered life is no longer a distant dream—it’s happening now. With more businesses enabling crypto transactions, digital assets are becoming a practical alternative to traditional money. Yet, anyone choosing this path must be mindful of market fluctuations, evolving regulations, and secure storage solutions.

In the near future, crypto could rival bank cards as a standard payment method. But even today, digital money is demonstrating its potential to redefine financial independence, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

The content on The Coinomist is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content. Neither we accept liability for any errors or omissions in the information provided or for any financial losses incurred as a result of relying on this information. Actions based on this content are at your own risk. Always do your own research and consult a professional. See our Terms, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers for more details.

Articles by this author
Pump․fun Meme Coin Launches Collapsed To 0.82%

Pump․fun Meme Coin Launches Collapsed To 0.82%

The Pump․fun platform has recorded an unprecedented drop in the weekly graduation rate of meme coins – for the first time, it fell below 1%, reaching 0.82%.

Anton Kryshtal
Senate Banking Committee Passes Stablecoin Bill: What the Genius Act Means 

Senate Banking Committee Passes Stablecoin Bill: What the Genius Act Means 

The Senate Banking Committee has endorsed the Senate Stablecoin Bill GENIUS (Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins), which seeks to set up a clear regulatory framework for payment of stablecoins.

Anahit Avetisyan
$100 Billion Gone! Bitcoin Speculators Trapped by the Market

$100 Billion Gone! Bitcoin Speculators Trapped by the Market

CryptoQuant reports that short-term Bitcoin investors lost over $100 billion while trying to cash in on BTC’s extreme volatility.

Anton Kryshtal
Crypto Scam Exposed: AML Bitcoin CEO Faces Conviction

Crypto Scam Exposed: AML Bitcoin CEO Faces Conviction

AML Bitcoin CEO Rowland Marcus Andrade was found guilty of wire fraud and money laundering by a federal jury in California after a five-week trial for misleading investors.

Anahit Avetisyan
How the Ethereum Foundation Is Shaping the Future of Crypto

How the Ethereum Foundation Is Shaping the Future of Crypto

For over a decade, the Ethereum Foundation has been the driving force behind Ethereum’s growth—from Vitalik Buterin’s white paper to a global financial and technological revolution.

Ivan Dikalenko
The Biggest Tweets in Crypto This Week: SEC vs Ripple Updates & More

The Biggest Tweets in Crypto This Week: SEC vs Ripple Updates & More

Summing up this week in Crypto Twitter/X: major announcements, updates, rumors, and interesting takes on the SEC vs Ripple case, Ethereum’s updates, the Trump family deal with Binance, and more.

Anahit Avetisyan
The Stablecoin Showdown: How USDC and Tether Compete for Dominance

The Stablecoin Showdown: How USDC and Tether Compete for Dominance

Two giants lead the stablecoin market—Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC). But beneath their promise of stability lies a fierce competition.

Ivan Dikalenko
What Is Fiat Currency and Its Role in the Crypto World?

What Is Fiat Currency and Its Role in the Crypto World?

Discover fiat currency—a government-issued money without intrinsic value—and learn how it interacts with cryptocurrencies and influences digital financial systems worldwide.

The Coinomist
How to Short Crypto Safely and Effectively: Tips and Strategies

How to Short Crypto Safely and Effectively: Tips and Strategies

Learn advanced strategies for shorting crypto safely. This guide covers key tips, risk management techniques, and various methods like direct shorting, futures, margin trading, and options.

The Coinomist
Risk Reversal: A Deep Dive into Best Practices

Risk Reversal: A Deep Dive into Best Practices

Explore risk reversal strategies and learn best practices for managing risks in trading and business. Understand how to balance risk and reward to optimize outcomes.

The Coinomist
World Bridge Currency: Is XRP the Future of World Bridge Currencies?

World Bridge Currency: Is XRP the Future of World Bridge Currencies?

Explore XRP as a potential world bridge currency. Learn how its speed, low fees, and scalability could transform global cross-border transactions and reshape financial systems.

The Coinomist
What Is TRC20? Exploring the Tron Network Standard

What Is TRC20? Exploring the Tron Network Standard

Discover TRC20, the token standard on the TRON blockchain. Learn how TRC20 tokens work, their advantages like low fees and speed, and their use cases in DeFi, gaming, and more.

The Coinomist
What Is a Bullish Market? How to Spot One Before It Happens

What Is a Bullish Market? How to Spot One Before It Happens

Learn what a bullish market is, its key characteristics, and how to identify early signs before a full bull market develops. Gain insights into market trends and strategies.

The Coinomist
Trump’s “US Crypto Reserve” Plan: A Game Changer or Just Talk?

Trump’s “US Crypto Reserve” Plan: A Game Changer or Just Talk?

It takes just one post from Trump to stir the crypto market. Recently, he announced on Truth Social that the evaluation of a strategic crypto reserve is in progress as part of his broader Trump crypto policy.

Anahit Avetisyan
Trump’s Crypto Tax Plan: Smart Policy or Risky Gamble?

Trump’s Crypto Tax Plan: Smart Policy or Risky Gamble?

There’s been a lot of talk about possible changes to crypto tax policies in the U.S. One of the more controversial ideas floating around is “Trump no tax on crypto.” As Trump adopts a more crypto-friendly stance, major rumors have surfaced that he’s considering a 0% tax on crypto gains.

Anahit Avetisyan
MORE
Wealth, Influence, and Bitcoin: The Market Moves of the Ultra-Rich

Wealth, Influence, and Bitcoin: The Market Moves of the Ultra-Rich

Billionaires have a significant impact on digital asset prices, often driving instability and engaging in crypto market manipulation. This view is echoed by American entrepreneur David Wolfe.

The Coinomist
The New Crypto Sports Economy: Sponsorships, Fan Tokens, and NFTs 

The New Crypto Sports Economy: Sponsorships, Fan Tokens, and NFTs 

Crypto companies are shaking up crypto sport, partnering with clubs and stadiums for high-profile sponsorships. This means big bucks for athletes, thanks to advertising and fan tokens.

The Coinomist
MORE