All Americans Want for Christmas Is Cash
Forget gadgets, socks or whatever scented candle you panic-buy at CVS: this year, Americans have spoken, and they want one thing: cash. Straight-up, beautifully unwrapped money. A giant new survey…
US paper currencies
Forget gadgets, socks or whatever scented candle you panic-buy at CVS: this year, Americans have spoken, and they want one thing: cash. Straight-up, beautifully unwrapped money.
A giant new survey says 58% of people want cash for Christmas. Not gift cards. Not “fun money.” Actual dollars. The average person wants around $600, which honestly sounds like the exact amount needed to afford two bags at Whole Foods.
West Virginia and Georgia want cash the most.
I respect that. Cut the small talk and hand over the envelope.
But apparently, our love for practical gifts doesn’t stop there. Wearables and accessories come in second place at 29%. And we’re not talking couture runway looks. The top choices? Casual stuff we all actually wear — sweatshirts, jeans, leggings. Shoes are next. Because nothing says “holiday cheer” like new sneakers that won’t see a treadmill.
Then we get into the “Essentials.”
Yes, essentials are now Christmas gifts. Bills paid. Rent covered. Someone footing the utilities. It’s giving: “Santa, I’m tired.”
Maine and Wyoming especially love this category, which absolutely tracks.
People also desperately want help with credit card debt. Or a new fridge. Or a bathroom that doesn’t look like it came with the house in 1973.
Gen X wants their mortgage paid (same, honestly). Millennials want home upgrades, because apparently we’re all one drafty window away from madness.
And yes, people still want “fun things” — but fun has gotten practical. Think Stanley cups, Rhode skincare, Labubu blind boxes, UGGs, Lululemon, Adidas, even Gucci if you're feeling spicy.
Budgets this year? Americans plan to drop about $1,120 on gifts. Millennials are spending the most — nearly $1,400 — because we love stress. Boomers? $842, because they’re smarter.
Most of that cash goes to kids and partners. The rest gets sprinkled on parents, friends, coworkers, and the UPS guy who single-handedly delivers your personality.
Top Gifts by Category:
Cash (Winner of Christmas): Just… money.
Wearables: Casual attire is #1 (sweatshirts, leggings, jeans), followed by shoes and jewelry.
Essentials: Top request is utilities paid, then rent paid, and credit card debt wiped out.
Experiences: A full trip takes first place, followed by concert tickets and local getaways.
Gadgets: Smartphones lead, then laptops and headphones.
Trendy Items: Skincare/makeup tops the list, then Stanley cups/branded items, and popular books.
