With crushing inflation keeping consumers' wallets in their pockets, buying Christmas trees will cost 15% more than last holiday season. But, unlike last year, there won't be a tree shortage, according to recent reports. Trees.com asked 1,250 Americans planning on celebrating Christmas.
According to their survey, there is a 7% increase in Americans planning on purchasing real Christmas trees compared to last year. Also, 1 in 5 are okay with paying $200 or more for their tree. A more economical option is cutting down their tree. In the survey, 56% of Americans plan to cut their tree to cut expenses. Another way Americans are cutting costs is by budgeting for presents. Three in four Americans will put a cap of $100 or less on gifts this year to save money.
In addition, two-thirds of the survey respondents said that having a real tree this year is a "very" important of the season.
"Having a Christmas tree is very important to our family, but the tradition of choosing a tree together is just as important. I have never not had a Christmas tree, but it would definitely negatively impact my ability to enjoy the holiday," explained Brianna Leonhard to Trees.com.
"The lights provide a sense of peace and joy that other decorations do not. It is the centerpiece of our Christmas display in our living room. We are willing and plan to pay an increased price for a Christmas tree. We also have a backup artificial tree that we store in our attic just in case we are unable to find a real tree," she continued.
Out of the total respondents, 53% plan on putting up an artificial Christmas tree, while only 8% will not have a tree at all.
However, Americans do not seem to be pinching pennies when it comes to money spent on trees. Zack DeAngelis, the founder of Tree Journey, said, "In some cases, it's worth it to pay the increased prices for Christmas trees. However, it isn't always necessary."
He continued, "For those looking to get a real Christmas tree from a farm, I recommend asking if there's any discount for cutting or wrapping the tree yourself. The farm will most likely have certain trees that haven't grown well and are less desirable. These can cost even less, which can help you save more if you're in a pinch."
Of all the respondents who want to buy a real tree this year, 18% say they will spend $200 or more. Generally, the average cost of a tree is $100, and most respondents are planning on buying a tree that ranges from six to seven feet tall.
