How Much Do Iowa Parents Spend on Each Child for Christmas?

We all know Christmastime is an expensive time of year, but where you live has an impact on exactly how expensive your holiday season is! A new study from Coupon Birds took a look at spending habits in the United States for 2024.

Overall, the average U.S. parents are spending around $461 per child this Christmas. But, if you break it down by state, there is a significant difference between the state that spends the most, and the state that spends the least. The study says that moms and dads in New Jersey spend the highest amount, with an average of $712 per child. South Dakota spends the lowest amount, an average of $247 per child.

Here in Iowa, we are on the lower half of the list. Coupon Birds reports that Iowa parents spend an average of $335 on each kid. That puts us at #12 out of all 50 states for the lowest amount spent. Here are the average amounts for surrounding Midwest states:

• Nebraska: $263
• Minnesota: $515
• Wisconsin: $507
• Illinois: $614
• Missouri: $609

In addition to figuring out the average cost per child in each state, Coupon Birds also published a few other interesting stats. For example, the article says that "nearly half, 49% of parents, expect to go into debt to pay for Christmas this year." Most of those people will use credit cards to cover the costs, but around 21% will use 'Buy Now, Pay Later' services. And, some parents are actually opting to gift their children experiences this year instead of all physical gifts. 24% of parents surveyed are opting for trips and events over more traditional presents.

You can read more about holiday spending habits for American parents in 2024 HERE.