How Much Do Americans Spend on Christmas? (Latest Data)

Introduction

Christmas is one of the most heavily commercialized holidays in the U.S., with consumers spending billions on gifts, decorations, travel, and festive experiences. But how much do Americans really spend during the holiday season?

In this report, we’ll explore:
✅ The latest U.S. Christmas spending statistics.
✅ Trends in holiday gift and non-gift spending over time.
✅ How spending habits vary by demographic factors like age, gender, and region.
✅ How U.S. holiday spending compares to other countries.

Understanding these trends is crucial for businesses, marketers, and consumers looking to optimize holiday budgets, strategize seasonal marketing campaigns, or simply better understand consumer behavior during the most expensive time of the year.

🔗 Explore the Latest U.S. Holiday Spending Reports

Key Christmas Spending Statistics in the U.S.

Christmas shopping in the U.S. continues to be a major economic driver, with consumers spending hundreds of billions of dollars each holiday season. Here are the latest key statistics on American Christmas spending.

** U.S. Holiday Spending at a Glance (2025 Estimates)**

Total U.S. Christmas spending: Over $960 billion (including gifts, decorations, travel, and entertainment).
Average American Christmas budget: Around $1,000 - $1,200 per person.
Gift spending per person: Approximately $650 - $700 on presents.
Non-gift holiday expenses: Americans spend an additional $300 - $500 on food, decorations, travel, and entertainment.
Percentage of holiday shopping done online: Over 65% of Americans prefer online holiday shopping over in-store.
Top spending category: Electronics, gift cards, and clothing remain the most purchased gift types.

** Christmas Shopping Trends**

• Black Friday & Cyber Monday dominate sales, with over $20 billion spent online in just these two days.
• Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services are rising—about 30% of consumers use installment payment plans for holiday purchases.
• Personalized gifts and experience-based presents (such as travel, event tickets, and subscriptions) are gaining popularity.

** What This Means for Businesses & Consumers**

Retailers should focus on early promotions, digital sales strategies, and flexible payment options.
Consumers can save money by planning holiday budgets, leveraging discount periods, and avoiding last-minute shopping.
Marketers should capitalize on online shopping trends by optimizing for mobile purchases and social media advertising.

Christmas spending continues to increase annually, with shifts toward digital shopping, flexible payments, and experiential gifting shaping the future of the holiday economy.

🔗 Track U.S. Holiday Spending Data

Market Insights: Analyzing Holiday Shopping Trends

The Christmas shopping season is one of the most crucial periods for retailers, influencing annual revenue and shaping consumer spending behavior. Understanding holiday shopping trends can help businesses optimize sales strategies and consumers make smarter purchasing decisions.

** Key Holiday Shopping Trends in 2025**

Earlier Shopping Start – Nearly 60% of Americans begin holiday shopping before November, with major retailers launching deals as early as October.
Rise of Online Shopping – More than 65% of holiday purchases are made online, driven by convenience and digital promotions.
Mobile Shopping Growth – Over 75% of consumers use their smartphones for holiday shopping, from browsing deals to completing purchases.
Increased Use of “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) – About 30% of holiday shoppers use installment payment services like Klarna, Afterpay, and Affirm.
Social Media-Driven Sales – Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are becoming major drivers for gift discovery and purchases.

** Shopping Behavior by Category**

🔹 Electronics & gift cards remain top sellers, while experience-based gifts are gaining popularity.
🔹 Younger consumers (Gen Z & Millennials) are more likely to buy experience-based gifts, while older shoppers prefer traditional items like clothing and home goods.

** Business Strategies for Maximizing Holiday Sales**

Offer early holiday promotions – Consumers are shopping sooner, so brands need to launch deals by October-November.
Optimize mobile shopping experiences – With the majority of purchases happening on smartphones, fast-loading mobile sites and apps are crucial.
Leverage social commerce – Influencer partnerships, Instagram shops, and TikTok ads can drive conversions.
Provide flexible payment options – BNPL services increase sales, especially among younger shoppers.

Final Thoughts: What to Expect for Holiday Shopping in 2025

Spending will continue to rise, especially in e-commerce and mobile purchases.
Retailers who adapt to mobile-first and social-driven shopping will capture the most sales.
Gift preferences are shifting toward digital and experience-based presents, making personalization a key factor in consumer choices.

Retailers and marketers must embrace these trends to capitalize on the biggest shopping season of the year.

Average Christmas Spending in the U.S.

The holiday season is one of the most expensive times of the year for American consumers. From gift shopping to travel expenses, Christmas spending continues to grow annually. But how much does the average American spend on Christmas?

** U.S. Average Christmas Spending (2025 Estimates)**

🔹 Gift shopping takes up the largest portion of holiday budgets.
🔹 Travel spending is increasing, as more Americans prioritize experiences and holiday vacations.
🔹 Holiday decorations & food costs add to non-gift seasonal expenses.

** Key Spending Insights**

Christmas spending has steadily increased over the years, with inflation and higher demand for premium gifts driving up costs.
Gift cards remain a top holiday purchase, with many consumers preferring flexible gifting options.
The rise of online shopping has led to increased spending on digital products, such as subscriptions, gaming, and e-commerce gift cards.

How Americans Budget for Christmas

35% of consumers save money throughout the year to prepare for holiday expenses.
30% of shoppers rely on credit cards or BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) services to afford Christmas purchases.
15% of consumers set a strict spending limit to avoid post-holiday debt.

Final Thoughts: What This Means for Consumers & Businesses

Consumers should plan their holiday budget early to avoid financial strain.
Retailers should offer flexible pricing options and promotions to attract budget-conscious shoppers.
The demand for digital gifts and experiences is growing, presenting new opportunities for businesses.

Christmas spending in the U.S. continues to evolve, with technology, convenience, and financial planning playing key roles in holiday shopping behavior.

U.S. Christmas Gift Spending Over Time

Christmas shopping habits have changed significantly over the years, influenced by economic conditions, inflation, and digital shopping trends. Tracking gift spending patterns over time helps us understand how consumers prioritize holiday purchases.

** Historical U.S. Christmas Gift Spending (Past 10 Years)**

🔹 Gift spending has increased by nearly 40% in the last decade.
🔹 Total holiday retail sales are nearing $1 trillion, with e-commerce playing a major role.
🔹 Inflation and rising consumer demand have contributed to higher Christmas budgets.

** What’s Driving Higher Holiday Gift Spending?**

E-commerce Growth – Online shopping now makes up 65%+ of all holiday purchases.
Luxury & Tech Gifts Are More Popular – High-end electronics, smart devices, and digital subscriptions have increased average spending.
More People Gifting Experiences – Travel, concerts, and event tickets are becoming preferred gifts over physical items.
Influence of Social Media – Holiday sales are heavily driven by TikTok, Instagram, and influencer promotions.

** What This Means for Shoppers & Businesses**

Consumers should plan their budgets early, as Christmas prices tend to rise in December.
Retailers should invest in digital marketing and social commerce to attract holiday shoppers.
The shift toward e-commerce requires businesses to optimize mobile and online shopping experiences.

With rising gift spending trends, both consumers and businesses need to strategize for smarter holiday shopping and sales planning.

Understanding Your Audience: Holiday Spending Behavior

Christmas spending isn’t just about buying gifts—it reflects consumer priorities, financial confidence, and cultural trends. Understanding how different demographics shop during the holiday season helps businesses tailor marketing strategies and consumers make smarter decisions.

** Key Consumer Spending Behaviors in 2025**

Over 60% of consumers start holiday shopping before November.
Impulse purchases account for nearly 40% of holiday shopping expenses.
Gift cards are the #1 most purchased Christmas gift, making up 55% of all presents.
Younger shoppers (Gen Z & Millennials) are more likely to use Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services.
Social media influences over 50% of holiday purchasing decisions, particularly from platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest.

** What Influences Holiday Spending Decisions?**

Discounts & Promotions – Nearly 70% of holiday shoppers say deals and sales drive their gift choices.
Online Convenience – More than 65% of Christmas purchases are made online, with mobile shopping leading the trend.
Personalization & Unique Gifts – Consumers are increasingly seeking customized, meaningful presents over generic gifts.
Financial Factors – Rising inflation has led to more strategic budgeting, with many Americans prioritizing essential gifts and experiences.

** How Businesses Can Adapt to Holiday Spending Trends**

Launch holiday deals early – Shoppers are starting earlier than ever, so businesses should roll out promotions before Black Friday.
Invest in social media marketing – Consumers turn to TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube for gift ideas, so brands must focus on influencer collaborations and interactive ads.
Offer flexible payment options – Providing BNPL services (like Klarna or Afterpay) increases conversions, especially among younger shoppers.
Focus on experience-based gifts – Travel vouchers, subscription boxes, and event tickets are growing in demand.

Final Thoughts: Holiday Spending is More Digital & Strategic

Consumers are shopping earlier, spending strategically, and looking for deals.
Social media and online shopping dominate holiday sales.
Brands that personalize experiences, offer flexible payments, and launch early promotions will win the holiday season.

Businesses must understand consumer behavior trends to maximize holiday sales opportunities.

U.S. Christmas Non-Gift Spending Trends

While gifts make up the largest portion of holiday expenses, non-gift spending—such as decorations, food, travel, and entertainment—has become a major part of Christmas budgets in the U.S. In 2025, these expenses continue to rise as Americans invest in festive experiences beyond traditional gift-giving.

** Breakdown of U.S. Non-Gift Holiday Spending (2025 Estimates)**

🔹 Travel spending is rising, as more Americans prioritize holiday vacations and visiting family.
🔹 Spending on food and drinks has increased, with more people hosting holiday parties and special dinners.
🔹 Decorations remain a key expense, with many Americans investing in Christmas trees, lights, and festive home decor.

** Why Are Non-Gift Holiday Expenses Increasing?**

Travel is a priority – Many Americans are choosing holiday vacations over physical gifts, boosting spending on flights, hotels, and gas.
More holiday gatherings – Spending on food, drinks, and entertainment is growing as more people host celebrations and attend events.
Inflation is driving up costs – Prices for travel, groceries, and home decor have increased, impacting non-gift holiday budgets.
Experience-based gifts are replacing traditional presents – Concert tickets, amusement parks, and subscription services are becoming popular alternatives to material gifts.

** What This Means for Consumers & Businesses**

Travel companies & hospitality businesses should expect higher demand, especially during the Christmas-New Year season.
Grocery stores & food brands should focus on holiday promotions, as spending on Christmas meals and treats continues to grow.
Retailers should cater to experiential gift-giving, offering travel packages, event tickets, and subscription-based products.
Consumers should plan ahead, as last-minute travel bookings and holiday supplies tend to be more expensive closer to Christmas.

Final Thoughts: Christmas is About More Than Just Gifts

Americans are spending more on travel, food, and festive experiences.
Businesses should capitalize on non-gift spending trends by offering deals on entertainment, decor, and holiday travel packages.
Consumers should budget for all holiday expenses, not just gifts, to avoid post-holiday financial stress.

With non-gift spending making up a significant portion of Christmas budgets, it’s crucial to track trends and plan accordingly.

Global Christmas Spending: How the U.S. Compares

While Christmas spending in the United States is among the highest in the world, other countries also experience significant holiday-related expenses. Understanding global Christmas spending trends can provide insights into consumer behavior, cultural differences, and economic impact.

** Christmas Spending Around the World (2025 Estimates)**

** Key Global Holiday Shopping Trends**

📌 U.S. remains the highest-spending country – American consumers spend more per capita on holiday shopping than most other countries.
📌 Experiences over material gifts – Countries like Germany and Japan prioritize Christmas experiences (e.g., Christmas markets, holiday meals, and dining out).
📌 Seasonal differences impact spending – Australia celebrates Christmas during summer, leading to higher spending on travel and outdoor activities.
📌 Christmas traditions influence purchases – In Japan, Christmas Eve is considered a romantic holiday, driving spending on fine dining and gifts.
📌 Europe focuses on food & traditions – Many European countries spend more on holiday meals, wine, and traditional markets than on gifts.

** What This Means for Businesses & Shoppers**

Businesses should tailor holiday marketing strategies to local customs and spending habits.
Retailers in the U.S. should expect continued growth in online holiday sales, while European markets will focus on in-person holiday experiences.
Consumers can save money by adopting global trends, such as prioritizing experiences over expensive gifts.

Final Thoughts: U.S. Holiday Spending in a Global Context

American holiday spending is the highest globally, driven by gift-giving culture and e-commerce growth.
Europe and Asia prioritize experiences over physical presents, offering an alternative to traditional Christmas shopping.
Businesses with international audiences should customize holiday campaigns based on regional trends.

Understanding global Christmas spending trends can help consumers make smarter financial decisions and businesses optimize international holiday marketing strategies.

Strategy for Businesses: Maximizing Holiday Sales

The holiday season presents a massive opportunity for businesses, with U.S. Christmas spending expected to surpass $960 billion in 2025. To capitalize on this, brands must adopt strategic marketing, optimized shopping experiences, and data-driven promotions.

** Key Strategies for Maximizing Holiday Sales**

1️⃣ Launch Holiday Promotions Early

60% of consumers start holiday shopping before November, making early promotions essential.
Retailers should roll out pre-Black Friday deals in October and early November.
Brands that offer exclusive holiday bundles and limited-time discounts tend to drive higher sales.

2️⃣ Optimize for Mobile & Online Shopping

More than 65% of holiday purchases happen online, with mobile devices leading the trend.
Businesses should ensure fast, mobile-friendly websites with easy checkout processes.
Leverage social commerce platforms (TikTok Shop, Instagram Shopping) to capture younger shoppers.

3️⃣ Leverage Social Media & Influencer Marketing

Over 50% of consumers discover holiday gifts via social media.
Partnering with influencers on TikTok and Instagram can drive product awareness and conversions.
Running holiday-themed giveaways, viral challenges, and interactive ads increases engagement.

4️⃣ Offer Flexible Payment Options (BNPL Services)

30% of holiday shoppers use “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) options like Klarna, Afterpay, and Affirm.
Offering BNPL can increase conversions and appeal to budget-conscious shoppers.

5️⃣ Personalization & Customer Engagement

Use AI-driven recommendations to suggest gifts based on browsing history.
Send personalized email campaigns with exclusive holiday discounts.
Implement loyalty rewards or VIP early access sales to boost retention.

** Top Holiday Shopping Channels in 2025**

🔹 Online shopping dominates—brands must invest in digital-first holiday campaigns.
🔹 Social commerce is growing, especially among Gen Z & Millennials.
🔹 Live shopping (via TikTok & YouTube) is an emerging trend, driving impulse purchases.

** Final Takeaways for Holiday Retail Success**

Start holiday sales early—consumers are shopping earlier than ever.
Go all-in on mobile optimization—a seamless online experience is crucial.
Use influencer and social commerce strategies to reach younger audiences.
Offer flexible payment solutions (BNPL, discounts, free shipping) to increase conversions.
Personalized marketing & AI-driven recommendations will boost engagement and sales.

Final Thoughts: How Businesses Can Win the Holiday Season

The 2025 holiday shopping season will be bigger than ever—but businesses must adapt to consumer preferences and digital trends.
E-commerce, social media marketing, and BNPL financing are essential tools for maximizing holiday sales.
Companies that prioritize convenience, personalization, and seamless shopping experiences will outperform competitors.

With the right sales strategies, promotions, and digital optimizations, businesses can capture the biggest revenue boost of the year.

U.S. Christmas Spending by Demographics

Christmas spending in the U.S. varies significantly by age, gender, and region. Understanding these demographic differences helps businesses tailor marketing strategies and consumers manage their holiday budgets.

** How Different Demographics Spend on Christmas (2025 Estimates)**

🔹 Men tend to outspend women, particularly on electronics, luxury gifts, and tech gadgets.
🔹 Millennials & Gen X are the highest spenders, as they typically purchase gifts for children, spouses, and extended family.
🔹 Gen Z spends the least, often opting for digital gifts and experiences over traditional presents.
🔹 Regional spending differences are influenced by income levels, holiday traditions, and cost of living.

** Insights on Holiday Spending by Gender**

Men spend more on tech & high-ticket gifts, while women prioritize clothing, home goods, and personalized presents.
Women tend to plan holiday budgets more carefully, often starting shopping earlier than men.
Men are more likely to make last-minute holiday purchases, particularly online.

** Insights on Holiday Spending by Age**

Gen Z prefers experiences & digital gifts, spending more on streaming services, event tickets, and online gift cards.
Millennials & Gen X spend the most, as they typically have families and participate in larger gift exchanges.
Boomers focus on traditional gift-giving, spending heavily on family gifts, holiday meals, and travel.

Insights on Holiday Spending by Region

Northeast shoppers spend the most, due to higher incomes and urban holiday spending habits.
Midwest shoppers are more budget-conscious, spending less on luxury gifts and focusing on practical holiday expenses.
Southern states see high spending on decorations and entertainment, including Christmas light displays and holiday parties.
Western states spend more on travel and experiences, often opting for warm-weather holiday getaways.

** Key Takeaways for Businesses & Consumers**

Businesses should personalize marketing strategies based on demographic spending habits.
Consumers should budget accordingly—understanding how spending differs by age, gender, and region can help plan smarter holiday purchases.
Retailers should target Millennials & Gen X more aggressively, as they are the highest-spending demographic.

With targeted marketing and smart spending strategies, both businesses and shoppers can make the most of the holiday season.

Holiday Gift Preferences by Demographics

While Americans spend billions on Christmas gifts, what they buy varies significantly by gender, age, and region. Understanding these differences helps businesses optimize product offerings and consumers make smarter gifting decisions.

** Christmas Gift Preferences by Gender (2025 Trends)**

🔹 Men are more likely to buy tech gadgets, gaming consoles, and experience-based gifts.
🔹 Women prefer clothing, beauty products, and home-related gifts.
🔹 Both genders favor gift cards, making them one of the safest gifting choices.

** Christmas Gift Preferences by Age Group**

Gen Z prefers digital gifts & experiences—they spend less on physical presents.
Millennials are driving demand for personalized & luxury gifts such as smart gadgets and exclusive experiences.
Gen X and Boomers value traditional gift-giving, including home essentials and practical presents.

** Christmas Gift Preferences by U.S. Region**

Luxury gifts and high-end fashion are more popular in urban areas (Northeast & West).
Midwest shoppers prioritize practical, long-lasting gifts.
Southerners spend more on beauty, home decor, and holiday-themed gifts.
Western states favor outdoor experiences and fitness-related gifts.

** Business & Shopping Insights**

Retailers should customize marketing campaigns based on age and regional gift preferences.
Consumers should consider digital gifts & experiences, as younger shoppers shift away from traditional presents.
Gift cards remain the safest choice, with nearly 50% of all shoppers preferring them.

Understanding who buys what during the holiday season helps businesses increase sales and shoppers choose gifts more effectively.

U.S. Holiday Shopping Preferences: Online vs. In-Store

The way Americans shop for Christmas has changed dramatically over the years. Online shopping now dominates holiday spending, but in-store shopping still plays a key role in certain categories. Understanding these preferences helps businesses optimize sales strategies and consumers plan their purchases efficiently.

** U.S. Holiday Shopping Preferences (2025 Trends)**

🔹 Online shopping remains the #1 choice, with Amazon and major e-commerce platforms leading sales.
🔹 In-store shopping still holds strong, particularly for last-minute shoppers and high-ticket items.
🔹 Social commerce is rising, with younger shoppers purchasing gifts via TikTok Shop, Instagram Shopping, and Facebook Marketplace.
🔹 Live shopping events on platforms like TikTok and YouTube are gaining popularity for limited-time deals and impulse purchases.

** Why Do Consumers Choose Online vs. In-Store?**

Convenience is the #1 reason for online shopping, with consumers preferring home delivery and easy price comparisons.
In-store shopping remains valuable for high-end items where people want to see, touch, or try products before purchasing.
Last-minute shoppers rely more on in-store purchases, as online orders may not arrive in time for Christmas.

** Key Takeaways for Businesses & Consumers**

Retailers should invest in omnichannel shopping experiences, integrating online, in-store, and social commerce.
E-commerce brands must optimize mobile shopping, as most purchases now happen via smartphone.
Local stores can attract more foot traffic by offering exclusive in-store deals, personalized experiences, and last-minute discounts.
Shoppers should take advantage of online deals early to avoid holiday shipping delays.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Holiday Shopping

Online shopping will continue to dominate, but social commerce and in-store experiences will still play a crucial role.
Brands must adapt to mobile-first shopping trends to stay competitive.
Consumers should plan ahead to maximize savings and ensure timely gift deliveries.

The future of holiday shopping is digital-first, experience-driven, and increasingly personalized.

Key Takeaways & Final Thoughts

Christmas spending in the U.S. continues to evolve, with consumers prioritizing convenience, personalized gifts, and digital shopping experiences. Whether you’re a shopper or a business, understanding holiday spending trends can help you make smarter decisions during the holiday season.

Key Takeaways from This Report

📌 Americans are expected to spend over $960 billion on Christmas in 2025, with an average per-person holiday budget of $1,000 - $1,200.
📌 Gift shopping remains the largest expense, but non-gift spending (travel, food, and entertainment) is increasing.
📌 Online shopping dominates holiday sales (65%+), but in-store shopping is still strong for last-minute purchases and big-ticket items.
📌 Men outspend women, Millennials & Gen X spend the most, and the Northeast has the highest holiday budgets.
📌 Gift cards, electronics, and experience-based gifts are among the top holiday purchases.
📌 Social commerce and BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) services are reshaping how consumers shop during the holiday season.

Final Thoughts: What This Means for Shoppers & Businesses

For Shoppers:

• Start holiday shopping early to take advantage of discounts and avoid price surges.
• Consider experience-based gifts (concert tickets, travel, subscriptions) as they are becoming more popular.
• Be mindful of BNPL services, as they can help with budgeting but may lead to overspending.

For Businesses & Retailers:

• Optimize for e-commerce & mobile shopping, as most consumers prefer online purchases.
• Leverage social media & influencer marketing, as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook play a huge role in holiday gift discovery.
• Provide multiple payment options, including BNPL and digital wallets, to increase conversions.

What’s Next for Holiday Spending?

Holiday budgets will continue to grow, driven by inflation, e-commerce expansion, and higher demand for personalized gifts.
AI-driven recommendations & personalized shopping experiences will influence purchasing behavior.
Retailers that adapt to digital trends and customer needs will capture the biggest holiday sales opportunities.

Christmas spending is not just about gifts—it reflects consumer habits, shopping trends, and cultural traditions. Understanding these patterns helps businesses boost sales and shoppers get the most value from their holiday purchases.

Conclusion

The holiday season continues to be the most significant shopping period of the year, with Americans spending over $960 billion on Christmas in 2025. As shopping behaviors evolve, businesses must adapt to new trends, while consumers need to budget wisely to maximize their holiday spending.

Key Insights from This Report

Christmas spending is at an all-time high, with the average American budgeting $1,000 - $1,200 for holiday expenses.
Online shopping dominates (65%+ of holiday purchases), while social commerce and live shopping are on the rise.
Men spend more than women, and Millennials & Gen X have the highest holiday budgets.
Gift preferences are shifting toward experiences and digital purchases, reflecting changing consumer priorities.
Businesses must focus on personalization, BNPL options, and mobile-friendly shopping experiences to capture holiday sales.

What’s Next for Christmas Spending?

Retailers will rely more on AI & data-driven marketing to deliver personalized holiday shopping experiences.
The growth of social commerce & influencer marketing will continue shaping purchasing decisions.
Consumers will prioritize early shopping & budgeting strategies to avoid financial strain.
Experience-based gifts will see further growth, replacing some traditional presents.

Final Thoughts: A Data-Driven Approach to the Holidays

For shoppers, planning ahead and taking advantage of early deals can reduce holiday stress and overspending.
For businesses, embracing digital sales strategies, flexible payment options, and mobile-first shopping trends will be key to holiday success.

As Christmas spending continues to evolve, staying informed on consumer trends and economic factors will be crucial for both shoppers and retailers.