Las Vegas Businesses Adopt Bitcoin to Slash Card Processing Fees

Las Vegas is turning into a hotspot for Bitcoin payments in 2026. According to a FOX5 report, more businesses across the city now accept BTC for everyday purchases. These range from national chains like Steak ’n Shake to small cafes, juice bars and even medical practices.

Owners say the move helps them reach new customers and cut operating costs. Instead of treating crypto as an investment only. These merchants now use it at the checkout counter. The trend shows how Bitcoin is slowly moving from speculation to real world use in the United States.

Why businesses are switching to Bitcoin

For many merchants, the main reason is cost. Credit card processing fees usually range from 2.5% to 3.5% per transaction, over time, that adds up. Bitcoin payments can cost far less, especially when used through fast networks and simple QR code tools. Business owners also say BTC attracts new customers. Crypto users often search for places that accept digital payments. Some cafes report dozens of BTC transactions each day.

At Cane Juice Bar and Cafe in southwest Las Vegas, staff say Bitcoin brings in people who might not have found the shop otherwise. Customers walk in just to try paying with crypto. That helps boost visibility and sales. For larger brands, BTC also adds a tech friendly image. Steak ’n Shake has seen strong growth after adding Bitcoin payments. The chain said the move helped it stand out from rivals and connect with younger, digital first customers.

Square’s zero fee program drives adoption

A big push behind this trend comes from Square. Specifically, in late 2025, Square enabled around 4 million U.S. merchants to accept Bitcoin. It removed processing fees for Bitcoin payments through 2026. Consequently, businesses pay 0% in transaction fees for now. However, starting in 2027, Square plans to charge about 1%. This offer makes Bitcoin cheaper than credit cards by a wide margin.

The setup is simple. At checkout, the business displays a QR code. The customer scans it with a wallet app like Cash App. Payment clears in seconds and no special hardware is needed. Because Square already serves millions of stores, the feature spread quickly. Las Vegas merchants were among the fastest to try it.

Big chains and small shops join in

Steak ’n Shake added Bitcoin payments in May 2025 using the Lightning Network. Later the company even began holding BTC on its balance sheet. It also tested paying some staff in BTC. On the local level, Cane Juice Bar now accepts BTC for fresh juice and food orders. Medical offices and children’s play centers have also joined in.

Consultants who help businesses set up crypto payments say the list keeps growing. From cafes to clinics, BTC is no longer limited to niche tech shops. Maps that track Bitcoin friendly locations now show dozens of spots across the Las Vegas Valley.

Bitcoin shifts from asset to payment tool

This trend points to a larger change. Specifically, Bitcoin is no longer just something people hold; instead, it is becoming something people spend. For instance, lower fees make it attractive for merchants while ease of use makes it simple for customers. As a result, Las Vegas may benefit significantly from this shift. 

Crypto friendly stores can draw tech tourists and digital nomads. That could support local businesses and boost foot traffic. If the pattern continues and price swings stay calmer, other U.S. cities may follow. In Las Vegas, the message is clear. Bitcoin is not just for wallets anymore. It is for checkout lines too.