Consumer AI Adoption Profile and Spending Trends

This report presents an analysis of consumer adoption of AI services based on Bank of America payments data as of March 2026. It identifies that only about 3% of households are currently paying for AI services, with a notable increase of 38% in participation since mid-2025. The report highlights that households earning over $125K and younger generations are the primary adopters of AI spending. However, it also notes significant growth in median AI spending among middle-income households. The report outlines various use cases for AI, including shopping and vacation planning, and discusses the increasing consumer willingness to pay for premium AI services. Despite the growth in adoption, the report indicates that AI subscriptions are not yet considered mainstream, with many consumers still viewing AI as a supplementary service rather than a necessity. Additionally, it addresses potential risks associated with AI adoption, including misinformation and misuse of technology.