Thanksgiving Costs and Inflation Impact
New Empower research reveals how Americans are adjusting to inflation, tariffs, and shifting traditions around the holiday table .
Key Findings:
68% say Thanksgiving will be more expensive this year due to tariffs and inflation
Over 1 in 4 plan to pass on Thanksgiving because of costs (26% overall; 33% Millennials, 31% Gen Z)
42% will host a scaled-down Thanksgiving to save money (50% Millennials)
Americans expect to spend an average of $137 on Thanksgiving dinner
Younger generations anticipate the highest costs: Gen Z $176; Millennials $169; Gen X $135; Boomers $90
Turkey Trade-offs:
70% say turkey prices climb every year
52% feel pressured to serve turkey despite the cost
38% will serve roasted chicken instead of turkey to save money (48% Millennials)
30% are considering burgers, pizza, or fast food instead of a traditional meal
