Austria sees rise in digital payments despite continued cash popularity

A recent study conducted by Global Payments in collaboration with Erste Bank and Sparkasse reveals shifting payment behaviors in Austria. While cash remains a staple for many, digital payment methods are seeing significant growth.

According to the data, 38 percent of the population now uses digital cards stored on smartphones or smartwatches, a figure that has more than doubled since 2022. Among frequent card users, 63 percent have adopted digital wallets. Even among those who primarily use cash, the adoption of digital cards rose from 25 percent in 2025 to 28 percent.

Despite this digital trend, cash remains culturally significant. Approximately 19 percent of Austrians continue to pay exclusively in cash, and 88 percent of the population believe that cash should remain available. Experts note that businesses failing to offer cashless options may be missing out on potential revenue.