The worlds of Web3 and the metaverse are coming together faster than ever. NFTs and tokens are playing a key role in how people interact, build, and make money in digital spaces. But what do the numbers really say? Below, we explore 30 powerful stats that show how NFTs and tokens are changing Web3 and the metaverse, and what you can do to stay ahead.
1. Over 70% of Web3 projects incorporate NFTs or tokens as core components of their ecosystems
If you’re building anything in Web3 today, chances are you’re already thinking about NFTs or tokens. That’s because most projects—more than 70%—have these elements at the center of their product or platform.
This tells us that NFTs and tokens are no longer just extras. They are now the building blocks of Web3.
This is especially important for startups and businesses looking to grow in this space. If you’re creating a new app, marketplace, or digital experience, you should plan to use NFTs or tokens to unlock access, build community, or reward users.
They’re not just for trading art or coins—they can drive loyalty, engagement, and ownership.
To get started, map out how users interact with your platform. Ask yourself: can you reward them with tokens? Can you turn content or access into NFTs? Can people own a part of your project through tokenomics?
Building with tokens isn’t just trendy—it’s what makes your platform feel native to Web3.
2. The NFT market reached $24.7 billion in total sales volume in 2022
This number proves one thing—NFTs are big business. With nearly $25 billion in sales in a single year, it’s clear that there is real value being exchanged through these digital assets.
While some people only think of profile pictures, NFTs are now being used for much more: music rights, real estate, fashion, memberships, and gaming.
If you’re thinking of launching an NFT project, this number should give you confidence. But it also means competition is high. What matters now is how unique and useful your NFTs are.
Focus on creating NFTs that give real-world or in-metaverse benefits. Can they unlock private experiences? Can they offer discounts or income? Can they represent identity?
Avoid simply copying trends. Instead, find a niche where NFTs can solve a problem or make something easier. This is how you carve out space in a billion-dollar market.
3. Over 80% of metaverse platforms have integrated NFT functionality for virtual assets
Most metaverse worlds—from gaming to virtual events—now include NFTs in one way or another.
This means users can buy, sell, and trade things like clothes, weapons, vehicles, or even land as NFTs. It also means you can bring your digital assets from one platform to another.
For creators, this is huge. It means you can design digital items that people want to own and collect, not just use temporarily. If you’re building a metaverse experience or working with one, consider launching your own NFT asset line.
You could create branded wearables, art installations, or exclusive access passes.
And if you’re a business looking to enter the metaverse, start by asking how your brand can offer something people would want to “own” virtually. Think beyond ads. Offer something that has utility or status value.
NFTs let people carry your brand with them—visibly and proudly—inside digital spaces.
4. There are more than 1.5 million active NFT wallets as of 2023
One and a half million people are not just owning NFTs—they’re actively using them. That means they’re logging in, making trades, minting new NFTs, or joining communities.
This tells us there’s a strong, committed user base behind the NFT movement, not just a passing trend.
If you’re launching something in the NFT space, this audience is ready for it. But they also expect quality and innovation. You need to bring more than just an image.
Build experiences around your NFTs. Host live drops. Give owners voting rights. Create events that only NFT holders can attend.
Also, make sure onboarding is simple. Many users still struggle with wallets and gas fees. Use wallet tools like WalletConnect or integrate with user-friendly platforms like Magic or Paper to smooth the path.
The more you help people get involved without friction, the more you tap into this growing active base.
5. The average price of virtual land NFTs in metaverse platforms like Decentraland and Sandbox exceeded $10,000 at peak
Yes, people are paying five figures for land in a virtual world. This might sound crazy at first, but it reflects how much value people see in owning space in digital environments.
Whether it’s for building a store, hosting an event, or just flipping for profit, virtual land is now a real asset class.
If you’re an entrepreneur or investor, this opens up opportunities. You can buy land, develop experiences on it, or rent it out to others. Just like physical real estate, location matters. Find plots near high-traffic areas like event stages or partner properties.
As a brand, this is also a way to build your presence in the metaverse. Set up a branded gallery, shop, or lounge on virtual land you own. Use NFTs to grant access or sell digital goods.
But be careful not to chase hype. Always analyze the platform’s user base, daily activity, and governance before investing.
6. 60% of metaverse users report using tokens to make in-platform purchases
This shows that tokens aren’t just sitting in wallets—they’re being spent. People are using tokens to buy clothes for their avatars, pay for events, and even upgrade their virtual homes. If your platform doesn’t accept tokens, you’re missing out on both revenue and engagement.
If you’re building a product or service inside the metaverse, make sure you accept the most-used tokens of that world. That could be MANA in Decentraland or SAND in The Sandbox. You could also issue your own token for loyalty points or special perks.
Also, think about rewards. Can people earn tokens for actions like exploring, creating, or inviting friends? This kind of token economy can drive more use of your space and more user retention.
Just remember to keep your token supply and distribution well planned. Too much supply with no demand will kill your token’s value.
7. Over $4 billion worth of NFTs have been sold across metaverse platforms
This stat proves that the metaverse isn’t just for show—it’s a real marketplace. People are spending big on virtual fashion, art, experiences, and real estate. And it’s not slowing down.
To succeed here, don’t just create assets—create stories around them. People love to buy things that feel rare, meaningful, or useful. Use limited editions, unlockable features, and community-driven experiences to drive demand.
As a business, you can work with creators to launch branded NFT collections that tie into your real-world product. Think digital sneakers that unlock discounts on physical ones. Or a virtual dress that gives access to an exclusive event.
By linking your brand to metaverse assets in smart ways, you can build loyalty and revenue at the same time.
8. Gaming NFTs account for nearly 30% of all NFT transactions
Gaming is leading the NFT charge. Whether it’s Axie Infinity, Illuvium, or small indie games, players are buying and trading characters, gear, and items as NFTs. This is creating whole new in-game economies where people can earn real income.
If you’re building a game, now is the time to think about NFTs. But not just as collectibles—use them to power your game’s ecosystem. Let players own items, level them up, and even trade them across games.
Make sure your NFTs serve a purpose in the game. Don’t just mint for the sake of it. Players need utility and fairness.
Also, design for sustainability. Games that rely on constant new players to keep value up will eventually crash. Instead, create real value through gameplay, not speculation.
9. Ethereum hosts over 90% of NFT transactions, with other blockchains like Solana and Polygon rising
Ethereum is still king when it comes to NFTs, but rising fees and slow speeds have opened the door for other chains. Solana, Polygon, and Flow are growing fast because they’re cheaper and faster.
If you’re launching NFTs, think carefully about which chain fits your goals. Ethereum brings prestige and a large user base but can be expensive. Solana is great for speed and cost. Polygon offers compatibility with Ethereum plus low fees.
Also, consider going multi-chain. Use tools like Crossmint or Rarible’s protocol to reach users on different chains without building everything from scratch.
Match your chain to your audience and your budget. Don’t chase trends—focus on stability, security, and usability.
10. More than 300,000 users own wearable NFTs in metaverse platforms
Wearable NFTs are one of the fastest-growing segments in virtual worlds. These are digital items like shoes, jackets, sunglasses, or even animated wings—anything your avatar can wear. And with over 300,000 people already owning them, the demand is strong.
This is a golden opportunity for fashion brands, artists, and creators. You can launch your own wearable collections, partner with influencers, or host virtual runway events.
If your brand is already in fashion, wearable NFTs let you test new styles, reach a younger audience, and build hype with limited drops.
Just make sure your designs are native to the metaverse. What works in the real world might not translate. Add fun features like glowing effects, animated accessories, or interaction triggers.
Also, make wearables easy to buy and wear. Use well-known platforms like Decentraland’s Marketplace or The Sandbox’s Avatar Shop to reach buyers directly.
11. Over 40% of Web3 games include play-to-earn mechanics using tokens or NFTs
Play-to-earn (P2E) has shifted how people think about games. Now, players can earn tokens or NFTs just by playing. This turns games into mini economies—and people into participants, not just consumers.
If you’re building a game, this stat means you should consider adding ways for players to earn value. Maybe it’s through daily challenges, crafting systems, or battle rewards. But be careful—if your system only rewards early players or isn’t fun to play, it won’t last.
Build a game people would want to play even without rewards. Then add earning as a bonus. Also, create burn mechanics (ways to use or remove tokens) so your economy stays balanced.
P2E can be powerful, but only when it’s part of a fun, fair, and engaging experience.
12. The average monthly active users across major metaverse platforms exceeded 400,000 in 2023
That’s nearly half a million people actively walking around, exploring, and interacting inside virtual worlds every month. It shows us that the metaverse isn’t just an idea—it’s a living, growing space.
If you want to build a product or service in the metaverse, now’s the time. You already have an audience, and they’re looking for new things to do. You can open a virtual shop, host an event, run art shows, or even offer consulting services.
But make sure you understand what people are doing in these spaces. Are they exploring, socializing, or playing games? Your content should match that behavior.
Start small—rent land or partner with an existing metaverse project. Test your ideas, gather feedback, and grow from there.
13. Over $2 billion in venture capital was invested into NFT-based metaverse projects in 2022
Investors see massive potential in this space. With billions in funding going into NFT-metaverse projects, it’s clear that the next wave of internet innovation is already here.
For startups, this means there’s real opportunity to raise funds—if your idea solves a problem or brings something new to the table. Focus on your product’s utility, your tokenomics, and your team’s vision. VCs are now more careful, especially after market corrections, but they’re still active.
If you’re not raising funds, follow the money anyway. Look at what kinds of projects are getting backed. Are they games? Marketplaces? Tools for creators? This can help you position your own offering to ride the wave rather than get swept under it.
14. DAO-governed metaverses like Decentraland use tokens for governance, with over 50,000 token holders participating
DAOs, or Decentralized Autonomous Organizations, are changing how decisions are made. Instead of a central company calling the shots, token holders vote on everything from budgets to design changes.
With over 50,000 people involved in voting for metaverse platforms, this shows that people want a voice in the platforms they use. If you’re building in Web3, adding DAO mechanics can bring deeper community buy-in.
Let users vote on new features. Let NFT holders help shape your roadmap. Even small votes—like choosing an event theme—can make users feel more connected.
But don’t make it too complex. Use tools like Snapshot or Aragon to keep governance simple and transparent.
15. The NFT burn rate increased by over 200% year-over-year in 2023
Burning NFTs—removing them from circulation—is a growing trend. Creators are doing this to limit supply, create exclusivity, or allow users to upgrade by burning old NFTs.
A higher burn rate means people are thinking more creatively about supply and value. You can use burns to reward loyal holders, reduce clutter, or run gamified events.
For example, ask users to burn three lower-tier NFTs to mint a rare one. Or let them burn tokens to unlock a hidden experience. These mechanics can drive demand and increase scarcity without creating new NFTs every time.
Just be clear about your rules. Make it easy to understand, and always provide value in return.
16. The average holding time for metaverse NFTs is about 45 days
This means people aren’t just flipping these assets—they’re keeping them for a while. It also means there’s time to build relationships, offer benefits, and increase engagement.
Use this holding window wisely. Don’t wait too long to give your users reasons to stay engaged. Maybe you airdrop rewards to holders after 30 days. Or unlock extra features if they still have your NFT after 60 days.
You can also create dynamic NFTs—assets that change based on how long they’ve been held. This adds emotional value and encourages long-term holding.
Make sure your community understands the benefits of staying loyal. Time-based perks work better than quick flips when it comes to real user growth.
17. Metaverse NFT transaction volume grew by over 2000% from 2020 to 2022
That’s massive growth—and it shows no signs of stopping. If you missed the early wave, don’t worry. The space is still young. But you do need to act now, because adoption is speeding up.
Look for platforms where transaction volume is still rising but competition is lower. This could be newer chains or smaller metaverse worlds.
And don’t just look at sales—look at user engagement. Is there active trading? Are people talking about these NFTs on Discord or Twitter?
Join those communities. Talk to users. Find the gaps. Maybe they want a new kind of avatar, a different reward system, or more fun in-world assets.
The faster you spot these needs, the quicker you can build something valuable.
18. Over 65% of NFT buyers consider utility in the metaverse as a key purchase factor
This is a major shift. It means people no longer want NFTs just to look at—they want them to do something.
Utility can come in many forms. Maybe your NFT gives access to a members-only club. Or unlocks special tools inside a game. Or acts as a ticket to an exclusive concert in a metaverse world.
Think about how your NFTs can offer ongoing value. Make them evolve. Tie them to real experiences. Partner with other platforms to extend their usefulness.
If people know your NFTs are more than just collectibles, they’ll be more likely to buy—and hold.
19. Token-gated access is used by over 30% of virtual event spaces in the metaverse
Token-gating means only certain token holders can enter an area, watch a show, or interact with special content. It’s a simple but powerful way to create VIP experiences.
As a creator or brand, you can use this to drive NFT or token sales. Sell an NFT that unlocks backstage access. Or require a token to attend a networking session or webinar.
It also lets you reward early supporters. If someone bought your NFT a year ago, maybe they now get into a private event with you.
Use token-gating to build deeper connections with your audience, not just exclusivity for its own sake.
20. The top 10 NFT collections related to metaverse projects have over $5 billion in combined market cap
This number tells us one key thing—NFTs tied to the metaverse are more than just collectibles. They’re part of full-blown digital economies. Avatar collections, virtual land deeds, and metaverse gear are commanding billions in value.
If you’re thinking of launching a new NFT project, look closely at what the top performers are doing. They usually have strong communities, real utility, and regular engagement. It’s not just about fancy art—it’s about making people feel like part of something bigger.
But don’t just copy. Find your own angle. Focus on long-term community building and deliver real value beyond hype. Get feedback early and build in public when possible.
Even if your collection never reaches billions, you can still create a solid, loyal economy around it—especially if you tie it to identity, access, or rewards inside the metaverse.
21. Avatar customization NFTs have a market share of over 15% in some platforms
People care about how they look in digital worlds. Avatar NFTs—skins, hairstyles, tattoos, accessories—make up a large slice of NFT sales in platforms like Decentraland, Roblox, and others.
This shows a clear demand for personal expression. Users want to stand out and signal their identity, just like in the real world. If you’re a designer, 3D artist, or brand, you can tap into this by creating customizable items.
Offer variations, rarity tiers, or mix-and-match sets. Let users upgrade or combine items. These kinds of personalization systems lead to more engagement—and more resale value.
You can even create seasonal drops or limited-edition collaborations to keep things fresh. Just make sure your assets are compatible with popular avatar standards (like Ready Player Me or VRM formats).
22. The secondary market volume for metaverse-related NFTs exceeds $6 billion
A big part of the NFT economy isn’t just in primary sales—it’s in the resale market. People buy, hold, and sell again. With $6 billion in trades happening after the initial drop, there’s clear interest in trading and long-term value.
If you’re launching NFTs, plan for resale from the beginning. Add royalty mechanics so you get paid on every trade. Platforms like OpenSea, Blur, or LooksRare support this.
Also, design assets with resale in mind. Add traits or metadata that affect rarity. Make your NFTs dynamic—changing as users level up or hold longer. These features make NFTs more appealing to collectors and traders alike.
Don’t forget to educate your community about how and where they can sell their NFTs. A vibrant secondary market helps everyone.
23. Over 200 brands have launched token or NFT integrations in the metaverse
From Adidas to Coca-Cola, brands are jumping into the metaverse through NFTs and tokens. They’re offering collectibles, experiences, and even product tie-ins.
This isn’t just about being trendy—it’s about engagement. NFTs give brands new ways to reward loyalty, host exclusive experiences, and build community.
If you’re a business owner, start simple. Create an NFT membership card with real-world benefits. Host a token-gated event. Offer early product access through airdrops.
If you’re working with brands, help them move beyond vanity drops. Focus on purpose: What does this NFT do for the customer? What feeling or benefit does it deliver?
When done right, NFT integrations can build long-term relationships, not just one-time PR moments.
24. More than 10 million NFTs are currently linked to virtual worlds or digital real estate
That’s a massive number—and it’s still growing. It includes land plots, buildings, art, signs, and even interactive environments, all living inside virtual platforms.
For builders and creators, this means huge opportunity. You can design spaces, sell them as NFTs, or rent them out. Digital architecture is now a real field, and demand is rising.
You don’t need to be a 3D pro to start. Platforms like VoxEdit, Unity, or Spatial make it easier to create and mint your own virtual spaces.
Just remember: don’t build empty spaces. Create environments people want to spend time in. Think cafes, galleries, music stages, or even quiet retreats. The more immersive your world, the more valuable your NFT becomes.
25. NFT staking mechanisms are used in over 20% of Web3/metaverse platforms for rewards
NFT staking lets users lock up their assets to earn rewards—just like token staking, but with NFTs. It’s a powerful way to increase long-term holding and reduce flipping.
As a creator, you can use staking to reward loyalty. Offer tokens, in-game boosts, or exclusive drops to people who stake your NFTs. This makes your community feel more connected and keeps your floor price strong.
Make sure staking is easy to understand. Build dashboards that show rewards, lock periods, and stats clearly.
You can also gamify it. Let users stake for different outcomes: one path earns currency, another unlocks content. The more creative you are, the more engaged your users will be.
26. In-game token economies are now valued at over $10 billion across all blockchain games
Game tokens are more than just points—they’re real digital money. With billions in value, these in-game economies are driving serious innovation.
If you’re making a game, think of your token like a currency. It needs supply limits, sinks (ways to spend or burn it), and sources (ways to earn it). You can also add governance, letting players vote on changes.
Use tokens to reward skill, not just time. And avoid inflation—don’t give out too much too fast. Balance is key. Look at what other games like Gods Unchained or Illuvium are doing for ideas.
Tokens can be traded, staked, or used for crafting—just make sure every action in your game has a meaningful economy behind it.
27. Interoperability between NFTs and metaverse platforms is a top priority for 70% of developers
Users don’t want to be stuck with assets they can’t use elsewhere. They want to carry their NFTs—avatars, clothes, even land—from one platform to another.
Developers know this, and they’re working on tools and standards to make it happen. That means as a creator, you should start designing your NFTs to be portable.
Use open formats. Avoid overly customized assets that only work in one place. Follow emerging standards like ERC-6551 (for NFTs with wallets) or ERC-721C (for compliance).
Also, build bridges—both technical and community-based. Partner with other worlds and platforms so your NFTs have more utility across spaces.
The more interoperable your NFTs are, the more users will value them.
28. The average user spends $100–$300 on NFTs or tokens in metaverse experiences
This range shows that most users aren’t whales—they’re regular people willing to spend modest amounts for meaningful experiences. That’s good news for small creators and indie builders.
When pricing your NFTs, don’t always aim high. Offer entry-level options so more users can participate. Tiered pricing works well—basic NFTs at $50, premium at $200, and ultra-rare for higher amounts.
Focus on value. What do people get for their money? Make it easy for them to see the benefit, whether that’s access, status, rewards, or entertainment.
And don’t forget to make it fun. The more enjoyable your experience, the more people will come back—and spend again.
29. Over 50% of NFT project revenues are reinvested into metaverse development
This tells us that smart creators are playing the long game. They’re not just taking profits—they’re using them to build better experiences, better assets, and better communities.
As a project owner, this should inspire you. Use your revenue to hire better artists, improve user onboarding, or create new in-world activities. Let your holders see that their money is going back into the world you’re building.
Be transparent. Share your roadmap. Show your budget. When people know you’re reinvesting, they’ll be more likely to support you again.
Your metaverse is only as strong as the time and care you put into growing it.
30. Token inflation control mechanisms are implemented in over 80% of metaverse economies
Inflation is a killer for digital economies. That’s why most serious projects now use burning, vesting, or supply limits to keep their tokens valuable.
If you’re designing a token, start with a clear supply plan. Decide how much you’ll mint, how much will go to users, and what will be reserved. Set unlock schedules so tokens don’t flood the market.
Also, add burn mechanics—ways for users to use up tokens. That could be through crafting, upgrades, or staking. This helps keep your economy balanced and your token price healthy.
You don’t need to be complex. Just be clear, consistent, and fair. The better your tokenomics, the more trust you’ll earn—and the longer your project will last.
wrapping it up
The integration of NFTs and tokens in the metaverse is no longer experimental—it’s essential. These 30 stats paint a clear picture of how deep and dynamic the ecosystem has become.
Whether you’re a developer, founder, artist, or brand, the tools are in your hands. The best time to build is now—just make sure you do it with purpose, clarity, and community in mind.
