Consumers plan to spend an average of $890.49 this holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation’s annual survey conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics. This marks the second-highest level of holiday spending in the survey’s 23-year history, only slightly below last year’s record of $901.99.
The survey found that 91 percent of adults plan to celebrate a winter holiday this year, with most spending focused on gifts for family and friends. Shoppers are expected to spend about $628 on gifts and another $263 on food, decorations, and other seasonal items.
Early shopping remains popular, with 42 percent planning to start before November to help manage budgets and avoid the stress of last-minute shopping. However, most shoppers still expect to complete their purchases in December.
Online shopping continues to lead, with 55 percent planning to buy digitally, followed by grocery stores, department stores, and discount retailers. The most requested gifts include gift cards, clothing, books, beauty products, and electronics.
Despite concerns about tariffs and higher prices, NRF reports that consumers remain committed to celebrating the holidays with loved ones, reflecting steady confidence in the retail sector heading into the season.
