Gallup’s 2025 poll shows Americans plan to spend $1,007 on holiday gifts, matching last year’s record highs as income gaps widen. (Gallup)
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U.S. consumers plan to spend an average of $1,007 on holiday gifts this year, according to Gallup’s latest poll. This amount roughly matches last year’s record-high expectations and signals continued strength in seasonal spending.
Gallup’s Oct. 1-16 survey shows that 86% of Americans intend to buy gifts this season, while 8% say they won’t or don’t celebrate the holiday. About 37% expect to spend $1,000 or more, 18% between $500 and $999, and 31% under $500.
While overall spending plans remain steady, Gallup found widening gaps by income level. Households earning less than $50,000 expect to spend $651, down sharply from $776 in 2024. In contrast, those making $100,000 or more project spending $1,479, up from $1,403 last year. Middle-income households plan to spend $847, similar to 2024 levels.
“Continuity in this metric has historically been a sign that holiday sales will be better than average,” Gallup said, noting that steady spending forecasts typically translate to 4% to 5% retail growth.

Despite inflation hovering near 3% and wage growth slowing, Gallup analysts say strong stock market gains may buoy higher-income shoppers. Meanwhile, half of lower-income respondents plan to spend about the same as last year, and 30% expect to cut back.
Gallup’s next update, due in November, will assess whether shoppers follow through on their plans — and whether economic uncertainty begins to cool consumer optimism.






