What Americans Really Want For Christmas Is Cash

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