How to Get USDC on Avalanche

As blockchain technology evolves, stablecoins like USDC play a crucial role in enabling fast, low-cost, and reliable digital transactions. USDC is a dollar-backed stablecoin known for its transparency, regulatory¹ compliance, and 1:1 redeemability with US dollars. Among the many blockchain networks supporting USDC, Avalanche stands out for its speed, low transaction costs, and growing ecosystem.

USDC is widely adopted across Avalanche’s decentralized applications (dApps), including major DeFi platforms like Uniswap, LFJ, and Pharaoh. This guide will explain what makes Avalanche unique, why USDC is a great fit for this network, and the step-by-step methods to acquire USDC on the Avalanche blockchain.

What is USDC?

As a quick reminder, USDC is a stablecoin — a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a stable value — that’s backed 1:1 by US dollars in the form of cash and highly liquid cash equivalents. USDC leverages the power of the internet and blockchain technology to be transferable almost anywhere with near-instant settlement and near-zero fees. USDC is readily available to those with an internet connection and a digital wallet in more than 180 countries around the world.

Because USDC operates on blockchain networks, transactions are processed rapidly and efficiently without the need for traditional banking intermediaries. Blockchains function continuously, 24/7, eliminating delays associated with bank operating hours, holidays, or cross-border settlements. This constant availability allows for near-instant transfer of funds at any time, reducing both the time and cost typically involved in moving money globally.

What is Avalanche?

Avalanche is a high-performance blockchain platform designed for scalability, cost-efficiency, and customizability. Launched in 2020 by Ava Labs, Avalanche stands out for its ability to deliver near-instant transaction finality, exceptionally low fees, and handy developer tools like support for customizable subnets. These features address common challenges found in older blockchains, such as high gas fees and slower transaction speeds, making Avalanche a leading choice for both developers and everyday users.

Here’s how Avalanche is structured to achieve these key benefits:

• Scalability: Avalanche’s consensus mechanism, known as Avalanche Consensus, is designed to make the network highly scalable and efficient. It’s a unique variation of Proof of Stake (PoS) that works by having network validators repeatedly check with small, random groups of other validators to agree on transactions. This process enables decisions to be made quickly and securely without requiring every validator to communicate with the entire network. For users, this means transactions on Avalanche are processed in seconds with low fees, enabling a smooth experience whether you’re sending or spending funds, trading crypto, or exploring Avalanche’s dApps.
• Cost-efficiency: Avalanche offers a seamless experience for end users through near-instant transaction finality and exceptionally low fees. These cost-efficient features make daily activities like payments, trading, and interacting with dApps accessible and economical, providing significant value for individuals managing smaller transactions or using blockchain for everyday purposes.
• Customizability: Avalanche enables the creation of customizable blockchain networks, known as subnets, which allow developers to build tailored ecosystems while benefiting from Avalanche’s overall security and scalability. For end users, this means access to highly specific dApps and platforms designed to cater to unique needs, such as niche DeFi protocols, gaming ecosystems, or specialized financial tools. By enabling isolated yet interoperable ecosystems, subnets not only support innovation but also provide users with platforms that are more focused, efficient, and relevant to their interests or industries.

These features make Avalanche a standout platform for developers and users seeking scalability and cost-efficiency in blockchain transactions.Understanding Avalanche blockchains: X-Chain, C-Chain, and P-ChainAvalanche consists of three main blockchains that work together to optimize performance and user experience: the X-Chain, C-Chain, and P-Chain. The X-Chain is used for creating and trading Avalanche assets, offering fast and efficient transactions. The C-Chain supports smart contracts and is fully compatible with Ethereum tools, making it ideal for developers and dApps. Lastly, the P-Chain manages validators and subnets, enabling seamless network customization and scalability.

For end users, this design is relatively seamless: assets can be transferred between these chains as needed, often facilitated by user-friendly wallets like Core Wallet. This means users can interact with dApps or conduct transactions without worrying about the underlying technical complexities of the multi-chain structure.

What is Avalanche-native USDC?

‍Avalanche-native USDC is USDC that is natively issued on the Avalanche blockchain. Because the Avalanche C-Chain is Ethereum-compatible, USDC is natively issued on Avalanche using the common ERC-20 tokenization standard. Token standards like ERC-20 are sets of rules and guidelines that developers follow to foster interoperability and seamless integration across the Avalanche ecosystem. Unlike bridged versions of USDC, natively issued USDC on Avalanche offers full interoperability without additional steps or fees.Circle launched USDC on Avalanche in 2021. As of January 2025, there’s over $600 million USDC in circulation on Avalanche.

Why use USDC on Avalanche?

​​While USDC is available on multiple blockchains, using it on Avalanche offers distinct benefits specific to its unique infrastructure:

• Speed: Avalanche processes transactions in seconds, enabling fast and reliable settlement of USDC transfers, even during periods of high network activity.
• Low fees: Transactions on Avalanche are cost-effective, often costing less than a cent, making it an ideal network for microtransactions and everyday payments.
• Access to tailored dApps: Avalanche’s subnet architecture enables specialized applications for users, including DeFi platforms, gaming ecosystems, NFT marketplaces, and more.

These features make USDC on Avalanche an attractive option for users looking for speed, affordability, and access to innovative blockchain applications.

Understanding crypto exchanges and crypto wallets

Before diving into the step-by-step process of acquiring USDC on Avalanche, it’s important to understand the platforms and tools you’ll use: crypto exchanges and wallets.

‍Crypto exchanges are platforms where users can buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. They act as intermediaries between buyers and sellers and often allow fiat-to-crypto and crypto-to-fiat transactions, making it possible for users to on- and off-ramp to and from digital assets like USDC. There are two main types of crypto exchanges:

• Centralized exchanges (CEXs): These platforms are managed by companies and often include user-friendly interfaces and robust customer support. However, assets purchased on a CEX are stored in exchange-based crypto wallets that are custodial, meaning users must trust the CEX to custody and secure their assets. Users don’t have full control over their assets unless they withdraw them to a non-custodial wallet.
• Decentralized exchanges (DEXs): These are decentralized, blockchain-based platforms where trades are conducted without a central authority. Instead users make peer-to-peer trades with the assistance of smart contracts. Connecting to a DEX requires connecting a compatible non-custodial crypto wallet. Non-custodial wallets offer greater control over your assets, but more responsibility for securing them. Likewise, DEXs offer greater control over the trading experience, but can be more complex to use.

Crypto wallets are tools for securely storing and managing your digital assets. Crypto wallets are divided into two main categories:

• Custodial wallets: Often provided by CEXs, these wallets are convenient but rely on the exchange to manage your assets’ associated private keys.
• Non-custodial wallets: These give users full control over their funds and private keys (or recovery phrases), but require careful management to avoid loss.

By understanding the differences between exchanges and wallets, you can make informed decisions about where to buy, store, and manage your USDC, and find the balance of convenience and security that’s right for you.

Step-by-step guide to get USDC on Avalanche

Acquiring USDC on Avalanche is straightforward, with multiple methods available. Let’s explore the main ways to get Avalanche-native USDC:

1. Use a centralized crypto exchange (CEX) to buy USDC on Avalanche

Many CEXs support native USDC on Avalanche, including Binance, Bybit, Coinbase, and more. When you buy USDC on Avalanche through a CEX, it’s already on the Avalanche network.Follow these steps to get started:

1. Open an account with a supported exchange: Register on a CEX that operates in your region and supports USDC on Avalanche. Complete the required verification process.
2. Deposit fiat currency: Fund your account using a bank transfer, debit/credit card, or another supported method. Be aware of the deposit fees charged by the exchange.
3. Buy USDC: Choose USDC as the cryptocurrency to buy. When making your purchase, you should see an option to select the blockchain network. Be sure to choose Avalanche to ensure your USDC is on the Avalanche blockchain. Enter the amount you wish to buy and confirm the transaction. Once processed, USDC should appear in your account.

Once you have purchased USDC on Avalanche, you can choose to store it within your custodial exchange wallet or transfer it to an external, non-custodial wallet. Moving your USDC to a non-custodial wallet allows you to interact with various dApps in the Avalanche ecosystem.

2. Use a decentralized crypto exchange (DEX) to swap for USDC on Avalanche

If you already have Avalanche-native assets (e.g., AVAX) in an external non-custodial wallet, you can connect to a decentralized exchange (DEX) like Uniswap, LFJ, and Pharaoh to trade for USDC. Here’s how:

1. Connect to a DEX: Choose a popular and reputable DEX, and use an Avalanche-compatible wallet (such as Core Wallet or MetaMask) to connect. Ensure that you are on the correct official website to avoid scams and phishing attempts. Note that DEXs have their own unique fee structures to be aware of, in addition to transaction fees that are incurred from interacting with the blockchain network.
2. Select trading pair: Choose the AVAX/USDC pair or any other supported pair involving USDC. Some DEXs may also offer cross-chain swaps that allow you to bridge assets from another network into USDC on Avalanche. (Depending on the DEX you use, you may see advanced settings related to slippage, routing, or other elements of the trading process. Carefully read and understand these settings before executing your transaction.)
3. Execute the trade: Enter the amount of USDC you wish to acquire, review the transaction details, and confirm. After processing, USDC will appear in your wallet. Note that you may need AVAX in your wallet to cover the network fees, also known as “gas fees,” for your transaction.

3. Use the built-in swap function in a non-custodial wallet like Core

While keeping your USDC on an exchange is convenient, an Avalanche-compatible non-custodial wallet allows greater flexibility for engaging with Avalanche’s ecosystem. Popular options include Core Wallet and MetaMask.

Some non-custodial wallets (including both Core and MetaMask) offer integrated swap functionalities that simplify acquiring USDC on Avalanche. These built-in features eliminate the need for complex processes by allowing users to directly exchange supported tokens like AVAX for USDC within the wallet interface. This makes it easy for users to acquire USDC without relying on external platforms or services, offering a streamlined and efficient experience.

If, for example, you already hold AVAX in a wallet like Core, or you send AVAX to your Core wallet for this purpose, you can then use Core’s native swap feature to convert AVAX (or other compatible assets) into USDC. To swap for USDC within your non-custodial wallet, navigate to your wallet’s trading tab and select an eligible trading pair to swap for USDC. Input your desired trade details (like the amount of USDC you want to receive or the amount of, say, AVAX you’d like to trade), review the order, and confirm the transaction.

4. Use an Avalanche USDC bridge

We’ve spoken a bit about cross-chain swaps, and how some wallets and DEXs support the function of transferring an asset between two different blockchains. But in the case of USDC, there are two distinct ways to transfer USDC to another blockchain network, and the key distinction revolves around native vs bridged USDC.

As a reminder, native USDC originates directly from Circle on a particular blockchain, and is fully supported by the originating blockchain. Bridged USDC, however, is created when USDC is locked in a smart contract on one blockchain (i.e., the origin blockchain) and a “synthetic” or “bridged” form of USDC is minted (or created) on another blockchain (i.e., the destination blockchain) by a third-party bridge dApp. Crucially, bridged USDC is not issued by Circle, and only native USDC is fully reserved and designed to be redeemable 1:1 directly from a Circle-authorized partner. Many blockchains support both native and bridged USDC — so you should always be aware of which version you’re interacting with. If you obtained USDC directly through a Circle-authorized partner or exchange supporting native issuance, it is likely native; if you used a cross-chain bridge, your USDC is likely bridged. If you’re not sure, compare the token’s contract address on a blockchain explorer (e.g., Etherscan or Avalanche Explorer) with the official list provided by Circle.

Why does the distinction between native and bridged USDC matter? Because traditional blockchain bridges deal with bridged USDC, while bridges powered by the Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol (CCTP) deal with native USDC. Developed by Circle as a permissionless tool for transferring USDC between blockchains, CCTP is a powerful tool that burns (or destroys) USDC on one chain, and mints native USDC on another chosen destination chain, like Avalanche, without having to keep any USDC “locked” in a smart contract. Transferring USDC natively is a better alternative to using a traditional bridge, whose security protocols may not be as robust as Circle’s, the issuer of USDC and creator of CCTP. 

CCTP is integrated into wallets like Core, DEXs like OKX (not to be confused with the centralized exchange, OKX), and cross-chain bridges like the Avalanche Bridge. Learn more about CCTP and see a complete list of dApp integrations here. Then use CCTP-powered platforms to seamlessly bridge native USDC between supported blockchains.

Important considerations about USDC on Avalanche

When acquiring or transferring USDC on Avalanche, it’s essential to be aware of a few key factors that can impact your experience. Understanding how different exchanges and wallets support USDC, the distinction between native and bridged USDC, and the costs associated with transactions will help ensure smooth and efficient usage. Keeping these considerations in mind will help you to avoid potential pitfalls and make the most of Avalanche’s fast and cost-effective blockchain infrastructure.

• Confirm exchange and wallet support: Not all exchanges and wallets support native USDC on Avalanche. Always verify compatibility before transferring funds, and be sure to use a compatible Avalanche wallet address to send or receive funds.
• Native vs bridged USDC: Ensure you’re interacting with native USDC on Avalanche to avoid interoperability issues. Bridged USDC may require additional steps and fees to integrate with Avalanche. Native USDC is directly issued on Avalanche and works seamlessly across its ecosystem, whereas bridged USDC originates from another blockchain and may require additional steps. When sending Avalanche-native USDC, make sure that the exchange or wallet you are sending to accepts USDC on the Avalanche C-Chain.
• Consider gas fees: Transactions on Avalanche require AVAX for gas. Ensure your wallet is funded with a small amount of AVAX before initiating transactions, as insufficient AVAX can result in failed transactions. Gas fees on Avalanche are generally low compared to other blockchains, but it’s always good practice to monitor network conditions to avoid unexpected costs. If using a cross-chain bridge, you may be required to pay gas fees on the origin blockchain as well as the destination blockchain.
• Test transactions: If you’re new to transferring USDC, start with a small amount to ensure successful processing before moving larger sums.

‍Note: Attempting to withdraw or send non-native assets from one blockchain to another may result in a failed transaction and/or the permanent loss of assets.

‍How to use USDC on Avalanche

USDC on Avalanche brings together the reliability of a stable, dollar-backed digital currency and the remarkable efficiency of the Avalanche blockchain. With its near-instant transaction speeds and low costs, Avalanche makes using USDC an effortless experience for both newcomers and seasoned crypto enthusiasts. Following the outlined steps, you can quickly acquire Avalanche-based USDC to explore a wide range of DeFi opportunities and digital payment use cases.

Beyond Avalanche, USDC is natively supported on over 15 blockchains, reflecting its extensive integration into the broader blockchain ecosystem. This widespread availability means that users can leverage USDC across numerous platforms and applications. To learn more about the networks, wallets, exchanges, and dApps supporting USDC, visit our comprehensive USDC Ecosystem Catalog.