Holiday Spending Expected to Reach $2,860 as Hosting and Entertainment Costs Climb

Affinity Federal Credit Union’s third annual Holiday Spending Index shows higher costs for hosting and seasonal activities, reinforcing the importance of planning and financial wellbeing

BASKING RIDGE, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As families across the country prepare for the holiday season, new data aggregated by Affinity Federal Credit Union (“Affinity”) and the Affinity Wellbeing Institute (“AWI”) shows that Americans can expect to spend approximately $2,862.81 on holiday-related expenses this year. This figure is up from $2,828.29 in 2025, representing a 1.2% increase year-over-year.

The findings come from Affinity’s third annual Holiday Spending Index, which examines typical household expenses between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, including hosting, travel, gifting, entertainment, and decorations. The data provides a comprehensive look at how families are managing the celebration-related costs during one of the most expensive times of the year. Compared with last year’s index, hosting and seasonal activities costs rose, while gifting and decorating costs dipped slightly.

Hosting a holiday meal for 12 people will cost an average of $377.85, up roughly 4% from last year’s cost of $362.80. The increase is largely driven by higher beverage costs. Prices for wine, coffee, and apple cider rose sharply, while the cost of key side dishes, such as roasted vegetables and cornbread, also increased. Prices for turkey, desserts, and other holiday staples, however, held steady year-over-year.

Travel also continues to be a major factor in overall holiday spending. According to last year’s AAA travel forecast, an estimated 122.4 million people were expected to travel 50 miles or more from home between Christmas and New Year’s, up from 119.3 million in 2024. For families opting to travel, costs vary significantly by mode of transportation. Traveling by train averages $1,056 for a family of four, unchanged from last year. Gas prices, however, are climbing sharply, with the national average reaching $4.37 per gallon as of Oct. 9, 2026, up 39.4% from $3.14 last year. That is the largest increase of any price in the index.

“Gathering with friends and family is what makes the holidays special. This year, some of the costs behind it, from the meal to the drive, are noticeably higher, said Grant Gallagher, Founder & Executive Director, Affinity Wellbeing Institute. “Our goal is to help families see those costs early, plan around them, and make choices that support their wellbeing without taking the joy out of the season.”

Families are also spending more on experiences, with holiday activities such as ice skating, light shows, and crafts totaling $479.91 this year, a nearly 6% increase from $454.38 in 2025. Higher prices for ice skating and light show tickets drove the rise, making activities the fastest-growing category in this year’s index.

Gifting remains a significant part of holiday budgets, averaging $491.08 for a family of four, or about 17% of total holiday spending. A lower price for a children’s toy offset higher shipping costs. Decorating costs have remained largely stable, averaging $457.97 per family. Lower outdoor décor costs were partly offset by higher electricity rates.

“Whether families are hosting, traveling, or celebrating close to home, the holidays are a time to be together,” said Kevin Brauer, President and CEO of Affinity. “At Affinity, we support our members’ financial wellbeing every day of the year, and planning ahead is one of the simplest ways to enter the season with confidence.”

Affinity’s Certified Wellbeing Coaches encourage families to plan ahead, look for small savings opportunities, and use available resources to manage seasonal expenses. Taking steps such as tracking spending, prioritizing needs, and using rewards programs can help families enjoy the holidays while maintaining financial balance.

This year’s research was conducted in October 2026 and reflects national holiday spending trends across key categories, including food, travel, gifts, and activities. Businesses or goods included in the research are not endorsed by or members of Affinity Federal Credit Union.

About Affinity Federal Credit Union
Affinity Federal Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in New Jersey, proudly serving members with over 20 branches across the tri-state area. Ranked among the top 2% of all credit unions nationwide by asset size, Affinity offers a full range of banking, lending, and financial education resources designed to help members achieve lasting financial security. Guided by a mission to improve financial wellbeing, Affinity is a member-owned, community-focused institution built on the philosophy of people helping people, empowering individuals and families to reach their unique financial goals. Learn more at www.affinityfcu.com.

About the Affinity Wellbeing Institute
The Affinity Wellbeing Institute ("AWI") brings together Affinity Federal Credit Union's wellbeing efforts to help members and communities thrive. Through education, research, content, resources and community experiences, AWI takes a holistic approach to wellbeing, recognizing that financial, career, community, physical, and social elements are all equally important to a person's overall wellbeing. For more information, visit affinitywellbeinginstitute.org.