How Much Money Is Spent On Christmas Gifts Each Year? Americans spend a significant amount of money on Christmas gifts annually, making it a crucial period for retailers and a considerable expense for individuals. At lawyergift.com, we understand the importance of finding the perfect gift for the lawyers in your life without breaking the bank. This article explores the latest trends in Christmas gift spending, offering valuable insights for those seeking unique and thoughtful gifts. Whether you are looking for law-related presents, personalized gifts, or professional items, lawyergift.com provides a variety of options to suit every need. Explore our website for exceptional lawyer gifts, legal-themed presents, and unique gift ideas for attorneys.
1. What Are The Key American Christmas Spending Statistics?
Key American Christmas spending statistics reveal growth in retail sales and e-commerce during the holiday season. According to Mastercard SpendingPulse, retail sales grew by 3.8% year-over-year during the latest holiday season, excluding automotive sales. Jewelry sales saw a 4% increase, while electronics and apparel also experienced notable rises. E-commerce growth outpaced physical commerce, with online sales rising 6.7% compared to a 2.9% increase for in-store purchases.
- Retail Sales Growth: Retail sales increased by 3.8% year-over-year.
- Jewelry Sales: Grew by 4%.
- E-commerce Growth: Online sales rose by 6.7%.
- In-store Purchases: Increased by 2.9%.
1.1 What Were The Spending Highlights From 2023?
The spending highlights from 2023 indicate that Americans spend approximately $900 on Christmas each year, with 71% of US holiday budgets allocated to gift purchases. Holiday sales have grown year-over-year for over a decade, and 96% of Americans buy gifts for their families. Deloitte estimates that Americans spend over $500 a year on non-gift items.
- Average Spending: $900 per person.
- Gift Allocation: 71% of holiday budgets.
- Family Gifts: 96% of Americans buy them.
- Non-Gift Items: Over $500 spent annually.
1.2 How Do Canadians Compare To Americans In Holiday Spending?
Canadians spend nearly $1,000 more than Americans during the holidays. Men spend 10% more than women on holiday purchases, and the highest-spending Americans during the winter holidays are aged 45-54. The Northeast outspends the South by around $100 per person each year. Gift cards are the most popular present to receive, and 48% of Americans begin Christmas shopping before the end of October. More than half (63%) of Americans shop online for holiday purchases.
- Canadian Spending: $1,000 more than Americans.
- Gender Difference: Men spend 10% more than women.
- Age Group: 45-54 year olds spend the most.
- Regional Difference: Northeast outspends the South by $100.
Festive Christmas Gifts
2. What Is The Average Christmas Spending Data?
Average Christmas spending data reveals that Americans spend an average of $902 each Christmas, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). This figure is close to the median pre-tax weekly salary of $1,165. In other words, the average American spends about a week’s salary on Christmas gifts annually.
| Purchase Type | Average Projected Spend (2024) | Percentage of Total Spend |
|---|---|---|
| Gifts for Family, Friends, and Coworkers | $641 | 71% |
| Other Seasonal Items | $261 | 29% |
| Total | $902 | – |
2.1 How Is The Average Christmas Budget Allocated?
Over two-thirds of the average American’s holiday budget goes toward gifts. The rest is spent on decorations and non-gift purchases, such as travel expenses.
- Gifts: Over two-thirds of the budget.
- Decorations: Part of the remaining budget.
- Non-Gift Purchases: Includes travel expenses.
2.2 What Impact Does This Spending Have On Personal Finances?
Spending almost a week’s salary on Christmas gifts can significantly impact personal finances, requiring careful budgeting and planning. Websites like lawyergift.com can help you find affordable and meaningful gifts for lawyers, ensuring you stay within your budget.
- Financial Impact: Requires budgeting and planning.
- Affordable Options: lawyergift.com offers budget-friendly gifts.
- Meaningful Gifts: Find thoughtful gifts without overspending.
3. What Are The US Christmas Gift Spending Trends Over Time?
US Christmas gift spending trends over time show that US holiday season retail sales have increased year-over-year since 2008, according to the NRF. Last year’s holiday season sales totaled approximately $964.4 billion, more than double 2004’s figure of $467.2 billion.
| Year | Sales | Sales Change Over Previous Year | Percentage Change Over Previous Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | $416.4 billion | – | ↑ 2.1% |
| 2003 | $437.6 billion | ↑ $21.2 billion | ↑ 5.1% |
| 2004 | $467.2 billion | ↑ $29.6 billion | ↑ 6.8% |
| 2005 | $496 billion | ↑ $28.8 billion | ↑ 6.2% |
| 2006 | $512.1 billion | ↑ $16.1 billion | ↑ 3.2% |
| 2007 | $526 billion | ↑ $13.9 billion | ↑ 2.7% |
| 2008 | $501.5 billion | ↓ $24.5 billion | ↓ 4.7% |
| 2009 | $502.7 billion | ↑ $1.2 billion | ↑ 0.2% |
| 2010 | $528.8 billion | ↑ $26.1 billion | ↑ 5.2% |
| 2011 | $553.3 billion | ↑ $24.5 billion | ↑ 4.6% |
| 2012 | $557.6 billion | ↑ $4.3 billion | ↑ 2.6% |
| 2013 | $583.5 billion | ↑ $25.9 billion | ↑ 2.8% |
| 2014 | $611.5 billion | ↑ $28 billion | ↑ 4.8% |
| 2015 | $628.2 billion | ↑ $16.7 billion | ↑ 2.7% |
| 2016 | $646.7 billion | ↑ $18.5 billion | ↑ 3.0% |
| 2017 | $679.2 billion | ↑ $32.5 billion | ↑ 5.0% |
| 2018 | $691.5 billion | ↑ $12.3 billion | ↑ 1.8% |
| 2019 | $716.7 billion | ↑ $25.3 billion | ↑ 3.6% |
| 2020 | $783.4 billion | ↑ $64.4 billion | ↑ 9.3% |
| 2021 | $889.3 billion | ↑ $112 billion | ↑ 13.5% |
| 2022 | $936.3 billion | ↑ $47 billion | ↑ 5.3% |
| 2023 | $964.4 billion | ↑ $28.1 billion | ↑ 3.8% |
3.1 Has Gift Spending Increased In Every Category?
Despite consistent annual holiday spending increases, gift spending hasn’t increased in every category. The amount spent on gifts for family members has increased year-over-year from $389 in 2008 to $514 in 2021. Yet, average spending on gifts for friends, coworkers, and other gifts has remained relatively stagnant.
- Family Gifts: Increased from $389 in 2008 to $514 in 2021.
- Gifts for Friends/Coworkers: Remained relatively stagnant.
3.2 What Are The Changes In Spending By Gift Recipient?
Below is a breakdown of average holiday spending over time by gift recipient:
| Year | Gifts for Family | Change | Gifts for Friends | Change | Gifts for Coworkers | Change | Other Gifts | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spend | Spend | Spend | Spend | |||||
| 2004 | $405 | – | $71 | – | $22 | – | $41 | – |
| 2005 | $419 | ↑ $14 | $79 | ↑ $8 | $21 | ↓ $1 | $44 | ↑ $3 |
| 2006 | $428 | ↑ $9 | $81 | ↑ $2 | $21 | – $0 | $42 | ↓ $2 |
| 2007 | $434 | ↑ $6 | $83 | ↑ $2 | $21 | – $0 | $35 | ↓ $7 |
| 2008 | $389 | ↓ $65 | $79 | ↓ $4 | $22 | ↑ $1 | $36 | ↑ $1 |
| 2009 | $387 | ↓ $2 | $67 | ↓ $12 | $19 | ↓ $3 | $35 | ↓ $1 |
| 2010 | $411 | ↑ $24 | $75 | ↑ $8 | $19 | – $0 | $36 | ↑ $1 |
| 2011 | $424 | ↑ $13 | $72 | ↓ $3 | $22 | ↑ $3 | $25 | ↓ $11 |
| 2012 | $423 | ↓ $1 | $75 | ↑ $3 | $24 | ↑ $2 | $28 | ↑ $3 |
| 2013 | $432 | ↑ $9 | $75 | – $0 | $25 | ↑ $1 | $27 | ↓ $1 |
| 2014 | $459 | ↑ $17 | $80 | ↑ $5 | $26 | ↑ $1 | $30 | ↑ $3 |
| 2015 | $471 | ↑ $12 | $79 | ↓ $1 | $26 | – $0 | $29 | ↓ $1 |
| 2016 | $486 | ↑ $15 | $81 | ↑ $2 | $26 | – $0 | $28 | ↓ $1 |
| 2017 | $478 | ↓ $8 | $75 | ↓ $6 | $25 | ↓ $1 | $29 | ↑ $1 |
| 2018 | $506 | ↑ $28 | $75 | – $0 | $26 | ↑ $1 | $31 | ↑ $2 |
| 2019 | $501 | ↓ $5 | $84 | ↑ $9 | $35 | ↑ $9 | $38 | ↑ $7 |
| 2020 | $502 | ↑ $1 | $80 | ↓ $5 | $32 | ↓ $3 | $36 | ↓ $2 |
| 2021 | $514 | ↑ $12 | $79 | ↓ $1 | $25 | ↓ $7 | $30 | ↓ $6 |
3.3 What Percentage Of Americans Bought Gifts For Each Recipient?
And here’s a look at what percentage of Americans bought for those recipients during the same period:
| Year | Gifts for Family | Change | Gifts for Friends | Change | Gifts for Coworkers | Change | Other Gifts | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| % | % | % | % | % | ||||
| 2004 | 98% | – | 80% | – | 39% | – | 50% | – |
| 2005 | 98% | – 0% | 81% | ↑ 1% | 38% | ↓ 1% | 48% | ↓ 2% |
| 2006 | 98% | – 0% | 83% | ↑ 2% | 40% | ↑ 2% | 52% | ↑ 4% |
| 2007 | 98% | – 0% | 80% | ↓ 3% | 37% | ↓ 3% | 47% | ↓ 5% |
| 2008 | 98% | – 0% | 80% | – 0% | 41% | ↑ 4% | 49% | ↑ 2% |
| 2009 | 98% | – 0% | 75% | ↓ 5% | 33% | ↓ 8% | 42% | ↓ 7% |
| 2010 | 97% | ↓ 1% | 74% | ↓ 1% | 32% | ↓ 1% | 45% | ↑ 3% |
| 2011 | 97% | – 0% | 74% | – 0% | 32% | – 0% | 44% | ↓ 1% |
| 2012 | 97% | – 0% | 72% | ↓ 2% | 32% | – 0% | 44% | – 0% |
| 2013 | 96% | ↓ 1% | 71% | ↓ 1% | 31% | ↓ 1% | 42% | ↓ 2% |
| 2014 | 97% | ↑ 1% | 73% | ↑ 2% | 35% | ↑ 4% | 44% | ↑ 2% |
| 2015 | 96% | ↓ 1% | 71% | ↓ 2% | 33% | ↓ 2% | 43% | ↓ 1% |
| 2016 | 97% | ↑ 1% | 71% | – 0% | 33% | – 0% | 43% | – 0% |
| 2017 | 97% | – 0% | 70% | ↓ 1% | 33% | – 0% | 44% | ↑ 1% |
| 2018 | 97% | – 0% | 70% | – 0% | 33% | – 0% | 42% | ↓ 2% |
| 2019 | 96% | ↓ 1% | 70% | – 0% | 34% | ↑ 1% | 42% | – 0% |
| 2020 | 96% | – 0% | 67% | ↓ 3% | 31% | ↓ 3% | 41% | ↓ 1% |
| 2021 | 96% | – 0% | 68% | ↑ 1% | 30% | ↓ 1% | 41% | – 0% |
3.4 What Factors Influenced These Changes In Spending?
The proportion of Americans purchasing gifts for family has remained largely unchanged over the last 15 years. However, the number of people purchasing holiday gifts for friends is down 12% since 2004 and is 15% lower than the 15-year peak of 83% in 2006. While people purchasing for coworkers has dropped from 39% (41% high in 2008) to 30% in 2021. And other gift purchases are being made by just 41% of Americans – down from 50% in 2004 and 52% in 2006.
- Family Gifts: Remained stable.
- Gifts for Friends: Down 12% since 2004.
- Gifts for Coworkers: Dropped from 39% in 2008 to 30% in 2021.
- Other Gifts: Down from 50% in 2004 to 41% in 2021.
The total spent on gifts for family dropped by $65 following the 2008 global financial crisis. This appeared to have a knock-on effect in 2009 for gift recipients. That year saw the proportion of Americans buying gifts for friends drop 5%, gifts for coworkers drop 7%, and other gifts drop 8%.
- Financial Crisis Impact: Significant drop in spending in 2008-2009.
- Gift Recipient Impact: Reduced spending on friends, coworkers, and other gifts.
According to recent data, Americans overestimate their Christmas gift spend by over $100. A 2024 survey revealed that US citizens expected to spend an average of $1,012 on Christmas shopping, $110 more than the average spent during that holiday season.
- Overestimation: Americans overestimate spending by $100.
- Expected vs. Actual: $1,012 expected vs. $902 actual in 2024.
Unsurprisingly, the lowest expected Christmas gift spending of the 21st century came in 2008 ($616) and 2009 ($638).
- Lowest Spending Years: 2008 and 2009 due to financial crisis.
Christmas Gift Spending Over Time
3.5 How Do Estimates Compare To Actual Spending?
| Year | Personal Christmas Gift Spending Estimate (Gallup) | Personal Christmas Gift Spending (NRF) |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | $826 | $907 |
| 2007 | $866 | $909 |
| 2008 | $616 | $801 |
| 2009 | $638 | $740 |
| 2010 | $714 | $715 |
| 2011 | $764 | $712 |
| 2012 | $770 | – |
| 2013 | $704 | $786 |
| 2014 | $720 | $781 |
| 2015 | $830 | $812 |
| 2016 | $752 | $796 |
| 2017 | $862 | $826 |
| 2018 | $794 | $853 |
| 2019 | $846 | $886 |
| 2020 | $852 | $880 |
| 2021 | $886 | $879 |
| 2022 | $867 | $833 |
| 2023 | $975 | $875 |
| 2024 | $1,012 | $902 |
NRF’s 2024 Christmas spending projection of $902 is the highest in over a decade. Similarly, Gallup’s 2024 figure of $1,012 is a new record.
- NRF Projection: $902, highest in over a decade.
- Gallup Figure: $1,012, a new record.
4. What Is The US Christmas Non-Gift Spending Over Time?
Christmas spending isn’t solely limited to gifts. Americans spend an average of $507 on non-gift Christmas expenses each year. In fact, non-gift spending has been on the rise for years, as have experiences, which total an estimated $735 in 2024.
| Year | Gifts | Change | Non-Gifts | Change | Experiences | Change | Total | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spend | Spend | Spend | Spend | |||||
| 2019 | $511 | – | $389 | – | $596 | – | $1,496 | – |
| 2020 | $487 | ↓ 4.7% | $435 | ↑ 11.8% | $465 | ↓ 22% | $1,387 | ↓ 7.3% |
| 2021 | $501 | ↑ 2.9% | $425 | ↓ 2.3% | $536 | ↑ 15.3% | $1,463 | ↑ 5.5% |
| 2022 | $507 | ↑ 1.2% | $373 | ↓ 12.2% | $576 | ↑ 7.5% | $1,455 | ↓ 0.5% |
| 2023 | $554 | ↑ 9.3% | $466 | ↑ 24.9% | $632 | ↑ 9.7% | $1,652 | ↑ 13.5% |
| 2024 | $536 | ↓ 3.2% | $507 | ↑ 8.8% | $735 | ↑ 16.3% | $1,778 | ↑ 7.6% |
4.1 How Has Non-Gift Spending Changed Since 2019?
Since 2019 ($389), the average spend on non-gifts during the Christmas period has increased by $118.
- Increase in Non-Gift Spending: $118 since 2019.
4.2 What Are Some Examples Of Non-Gift Christmas Expenses?
Non-gift Christmas expenses include decorations, travel, and entertainment. For lawyers, this might include attending professional holiday events or purchasing new office decor.
- Decorations: Festive items for the home or office.
- Travel: Visiting family or taking a holiday trip.
- Entertainment: Attending holiday parties or events.
- Professional Events: Galas or dinners related to legal work.
5. What Is The Average Christmas Spending Around The World?
Average Christmas spending around the world varies significantly. According to WorldRemit data, the average Christmas sees Americans spend $1,205 per year. Yet, that isn’t the world’s highest spender. In fact, Canadians spend over $500 more ($1,717 each year).
| Rank | Country | Average Total Spent 2022 | Average Total Spent 2023 | Change Over Previous Year | Food | Decorations | Gifts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $ | $ | % | $ | % | $ | ||
| 1 | Canada | $2,100 | $1,717 | ↓ 18.2% | $395 | 23% | $445 |
| 2 | Germany | $1,453 | $1,653 | ↑ 13.8% | $276 | 17% | $275 |
| 3 | US | $1,236 | $1,205 | ↓ 2.5% | $147 | 12% | $231 |
| 4 | France | $1,127 | $1,142 | ↑ 1.3% | $124 | 11% | $269 |
| 5 | Australia | $1,077 | $1,118 | ↑ 3.8% | $380 | 32% | $284 |
| 6 | Mexico | $1,076 | $1,055 | ↓ 2% | $167 | 16% | $343 |
| 7 | UK | $1,075 | $1,042 | ↓ 3.1% | $121 | 12% | $193 |
| 8 | Italy | – | $841 | – | $169 | 20% | $243 |
| 9 | Spain | $499 | $742 | ↑ 48.7% | $284 | 38% | $109 |
| 10 | Netherlands | $679 | $657 | ↓ 3.2% | $194 | 30% | $136 |
| 11 | Cameroon | $612 | $650 | ↑ 6.2% | $220 | 34% | $333 |
| 12 | Philippines | $569 | $614 | ↑ 7.9% | $366 | 60% | $42 |
| 13 | Guatemala | $315 | $324 | ↑ 2.9% | $36 | 11% | $209 |
| 14 | Fiji | $290 | $278 | ↓ 4.1% | $36 | 13% | $163 |
| 15 | Zimbabwe | $209 | $254 | ↑ 21.5% | $55 | 22% | $94 |
| 16 | Rwanda | $258 | $239 | ↓ 7.4% | $78 | 32% | $80 |
| 17 | Nigeria | $309 | $218 | ↓ 29.4% | $114 | 52% | $68 |
| 18 | Kenya | $212 | $215 | ↑ 1.4% | $46 | 21% | $49 |
| 19 | Dominican Republic | $179 | $208 | ↑ 16.2% | $22 | 11% | $167 |
| 20 | Colombia | $272 | $198 | ↓ 27.2% | $19 | 10% | $97 |
| 21 | South Africa | $172 | $166 | ↓ 3.5% | $43 | 26% | $59 |
| 22 | India | $139 | $146 | ↑ 5% | $58 | 40% | $40 |
| 23 | Nepal | – | $86 | – | $43 | 50% | $20 |
| 24 | Uganda | $60 | $64 | ↑ 6.7% | $36 | 56% | $13 |
5.1 Which Countries Spend The Most On Gifts?
Of 24 selected countries, the US sees the second-highest proportion of Christmas money spent on gifts (69%), trailing only the UK (70%). By contrast, just 10% of the Dominican Republic’s holiday spending goes toward gifts. Filipinos spend 60% of their Christmas money on food, whereas Colombians spend just 10%, similar to the US’s 12%.
- US Gift Spending: 69% of Christmas money.
- UK Gift Spending: 70% of Christmas money.
- Dominican Republic Gift Spending: 10% of holiday spending.
- Filipino Food Spending: 60% of Christmas money.
5.2 What Are The Spending Priorities In Different Countries?
Americans spend just 19% of their holiday budget on decorations. Of the measured countries, the Philippines (7%) devotes the smallest proportion of its festive budget towards decorations. On the other end of the spectrum, Dominicans put 80% of their Christmas funds toward festive decor.
- US Decorations Spending: 19% of holiday budget.
- Philippines Decorations Spending: 7% of festive budget.
- Dominican Republic Decorations Spending: 80% of Christmas funds.
