The Best Crypto Exchanges for US Traders (2023)

Cryptocurrency regulation has changed dramatically from the launch of the Bitcoin blockchain in 2023.

Cryptocurrency regulation has changed dramatically from the launch of the Bitcoin blockchain in 2009. The first cryptocurrency exchange — the now-defunct launched in 2010 BitcoinMarket.com — launched in 2010, followed by the now-infamous Mt. Gox trading platform.

The cryptocurrency trading ecosystem has evolved from a largely unregulated “wild west” in which anybody could trade cryptocurrency without providing identity information into a highly regulated financial market overseen by KYC and AML requirements for most major exchanges.

While increased oversight has made it possible for crypto exchanges to offer higher levels of security and reliability, strict regulatory requirements have established a fractured trading ecosystem in which exchange availability is divided by geographic location and jurisdiction.

There are now hundreds of cryptocurrency exchanges online — choosing the right one means carefully balancing a variety of factors such as reliability, security, history, fee structure, and supported cryptocurrencies.

If you're looking for a roundup of the best cryptocurrency exchanges globally, take a look at our guide which details the Best Crypto Exchanges. If you’re based in the United States, however, keep reading — the best cryptocurrency exchanges for US-based traders are a little different.

Why Are Some Crypto Exchanges Not Available in the United States?

The United States places significant regulatory stress on crypto exchanges, which can make it difficult for US-based crypto traders to identify which trading platforms are suitable for their needs. Cryptocurrency exchanges that operate in the United States are subject to regulation by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which enforces various anti-money laundering programs and requirements, FinCEN regulation, as well as other rules and regulations across various government agencies.

Cryptocurrency exchanges that operate in New York State, for example, are regarded as money transmission services — forcing exchanges that operate in the region to obtain specific licensing. Many crypto exchanges that allow users to transact in crypto assets that are defined as securities under US federal securities laws must also ensure they are compliant with various SEC requirements.

The regulation of cryptocurrency in the United States has created a market ecosystem in which US-based traders are unable to trade or register on some major crypto exchanges, or must use dedicated US-specific exchanges. Binance, for example, operates a dedicated exchange specifically for US-based users.

Determining which US regulation-compliant exchanges offer the greatest level of security, service, and competitive fees can be a complex and time-consuming process. This article will present the 5 best cryptocurrency exchanges for US-based crypto traders and investors.

What To Consider When Choosing a US Crypto Exchange

There are a number of standard factors to consider when choosing the right crypto exchange, such as the level of identification documentation required to sign up, trade limits, currency support, and trading fees.

Choosing the right crypto exchange when based in the United States, however, places a few additional requirements on traders. In addition to checking for fee structures, security, and deposit or withdrawal methods, it’s essential to ensure that an exchange is legally allowed to operate within your jurisdiction.