The latest gadget or trendy new toy may top some wish lists, but what do Americans really want for Christmas this year? Cash is the winner, according to a new survey that finds 58% would prefer money for the holidays. And they’re hoping for an average of slightly more than $600.
The poll of 5-thousand Americans from all 50 states offers insight into the most wanted gifts and present-buying budgets of people across the country.
- Americans will spend an average of nearly $1,120 on presents this holiday season.
- Millennials are the biggest spenders for others at an average of $1,369, while baby boomers tend to spend the least at $842.
- Unsurprisingly, most of the gift budget goes toward kids (36%), and partners (24%), as people average about $620 between those two. Parents (15%), friends (13%), coworkers (4%) and service providers (5%) round out who people are shopping for this year.
- Respondents believe their partners will spend an average of $65 on their gifts, with their kids spending another $60, while their parents spend $50, friends spend $30 and coworkers spend $15 on presents, bringing their total to $218.
- Most people expect others to know what they want, as only 16% give loved ones a wish list to shop from.
- Overall, 41% admit they’ve had to cut back on spending because of holiday costs and 22% are struggling to pay their bills.
- Practical presents are popular this year, with wearables and accessories coming in second after cash (29%), followed by bills being paid (21%).
- The most wanted wearable gifts are casual attire (68%), shoes (56%) and jewelry (49%).
- The essentials Americans are hoping to get for a holiday gift include their utilities paid (58%), rent or mortgage paid (51%) and their credit card debt paid (44%).
- Experiences people would love to get for a present include a full trip with airfare and hotels (56%), concert tickets (51%) and a local travel experience close to home (43%).
The Most Wanted Holiday Gifts
- Cash/money (58%)
- Wearables/accessories, like clothes, shoes, jewelry (29%)
- Essentials like rent, utilities, appliances (21%)
- Experiences like travel, concerts, sports tickets (19%)
- Gadgets/tech like gaming systems, smart devices and computers (16%)
- Trendy items like Labubus, Stanley cups and the latest skincare products (7%)
Source: Talker
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