Stress and Budgeting: How Americans Are Adapting
More than half (57%) of Americans say Thanksgiving is stressful because of grocery costs and preparation (64% of Gen Z), yet 73% see Thanksgiving as an investment in family, connection, and lasting memories .
Budgeting Strategies:
63% are budgeting carefully for the holiday
72% are sharing expenses with family to make the holiday more affordable
53% say the Thanksgiving menu looks different than in the past
52% will look for pre-packaged "meal deal" bundles to stretch their dollars
32% say meat is too expensive, so they'll only serve appetizers and sides (41% Millennials)
Trade-offs Being Made:
53% say Thanksgiving travel is now too expensive
23% are cooking fewer side dishes or desserts
22% are buying smaller quantities
16% are switching to store brands over name brands
15% are choosing cheaper cuts of meat or non-traditional proteins
