Google Pay replaces Google Wallet in the US – User insights and preferences

In an update to the mobile payment sector, Google has announced it will discontinue Google Pay in the US by June 2024, transitioning users to Google Wallet. YouGov Profiles data reveals key demographics and usage preferences affected by this change.

When asked which mobile payment apps Americans typically use, Google Wallet ranks fifth in the list at 9% after PayPal (39%), Zelle (17%), Venmo (17%), and Apple Pay (14%). In contrast, 4% of Americans use Google Pay.

Along age lines, 10-12% of adults aged 18-54 use Google Wallet,  double or more than that of Google Pay users in the same age brackets. As age increases, the usage of both Google Wallet and Google Pay decreases, with those 55 and older showing minimal engagement (4% for Google Wallet and 1% for Google Pay). This points to a potential area of growth for Google Wallet if it can bridge the gap with this demographic.

Gender analysis shows Google Wallet is more popular, with 10% of males and 7% of females using it, versus 5% and 3% for Google Pay.

Looking into income data, Americans with higher monthly pay (especially those earning $100,000 or more) are more inclined to use Google Wallet, indicating stronger adoption of both digital payment apps among those in higher income groups.

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Methodology: YouGov Profiles is based on continuously collected data and rolling surveys, rather than from a single limited questionnaire. Profiles data for the US is nationally representative and weighted by age, gender, education, region, and race. Learn more about Profiles.