Best crypto exchanges in United States

Picking a crypto exchange as a US resident is a different exercise than it is for most of the world. State-level money-transmitter laws block dozens of global venues, the SEC's enforcement posture rules out token listings most non-US exchanges run by default, and IRS reporting via Form 1099 is now standard at every major US-licensed platform. The exchanges below are the three that combine the strongest US licensing posture, the broadest spot + staking coverage, and the most defensible security record. Maker-taker fees are the headline cost, but for most US retail buyers the bigger swing factor is how each exchange routes USD on-ramps — ACH is free at all three; instant card buys cost 2–3.5%. We score on tested experience, not headline marketing.