South Carolina, November 26, 2025
As the holiday season approaches, the Winthrop Poll projects that South Carolinians will spend an average of $1,007 on gifts this year, a slight decrease from last year’s forecast. The report indicates resilience among consumers, with variations in spending across income groups. Local businesses in Rock Hill may benefit as shoppers prepare for the upcoming season, fostering economic growth. Moreover, consumer sentiment remains stable, with many respondents planning to spend similarly or slightly more than last year, reflecting confidence in the local economy.
Columbia, South Carolina: Winthrop Poll Reveals Holiday Spending Forecast
As the holiday season approaches, a recent Winthrop Poll indicates a promising outlook for consumer spending among South Carolinians, who anticipate an average holiday expenditure of $1,007 on gifts this year. This figure is closely aligned with last year’s forecast of $1,014, suggesting that residents are maintaining their financial confidence despite ongoing economic shifts.
This steady spending projection showcases the resilience of local consumers, with potential benefits for the broader Rock Hill SC business community. Encouragingly, these figures could prompt entrepreneurship and innovation to flourish as local businesses gear up for the holiday rush, potentially spurring job creation and economic growth in the region.
Spending Distribution
The poll outlines diverse spending plans among South Carolina residents:
- Up to $499: 31% of respondents plan to spend within this range.
- $500 to $999: 18% intend to allocate funds in this bracket.
- $1,000 or more: 37% expect to spend at least this amount.
It’s also worth noting that 8% of participants are either undecided or do not celebrate the holiday. These insights reflect a stable consumer base ready to support local businesses during this critical spending period.
Income-Based Variations
Diving deeper, spending intentions exhibit significant variations across income groups:
- Lower-Income Households (under $50,000): Average spending is projected at $651, a decrease from last year’s $776.
- Middle-Income Households ($50,000 to $99,999): Anticipated spending is $847, slightly down from $902 in 2024.
- Higher-Income Households ($100,000 or more): Expected spending is $1,479, rising from $1,403 last year.
These numbers showcase a cautious approach among lower-income consumers, while higher-income groups display a more optimistic spending outlook that could provide beneficial opportunities for Rock Hill small businesses aiming to capture the higher-end retail market.
Consumer Sentiment
The overall sentiment among South Carolinians reveals that 56% plan to spend about the same as last year. Furthermore, 19% anticipate spending more, while 23% expect to spend less. This balanced consumer sentiment heading into the holiday season suggests that shoppers are thoughtfully considering their purchases, which may lead to a more sustainable economic impact for the business community.
National Context
In a broader national context, Gallup’s October 2025 poll indicates that Americans, as a whole, are also planning to spend an average of $1,007 on holiday gifts, echoing South Carolina’s expectations. This alignment emphasizes a nationwide trend of steady consumer spending as families prepare to celebrate the season.
Conclusion
The findings from the Winthrop Poll suggest a steady and cautiously optimistic outlook for holiday spending among South Carolinians, influenced by varying income levels. As Rock Hill and surrounding businesses prepare for the season, supporting local entrepreneurs and innovators will be paramount in driving growth and success. Residents are encouraged to engage with their communities and contribute to the local economy this holiday season.
FAQ
What is the average holiday spending forecast for South Carolinians this year?
South Carolinians anticipate spending an average of $1,007 on holiday gifts this season, similar to last year’s forecast of $1,014.
How do spending plans differ among income groups in South Carolina?
Lower-income households (under $50,000) plan to spend an average of $651, middle-income households ($50,000 to $99,999) $847, and higher-income households ($100,000 or more) $1,479.
What percentage of South Carolinians plan to spend more or less than last year?
19% of South Carolinians plan to spend more, 23% plan to spend less, and 56% intend to spend about the same as last year.
How do South Carolina’s holiday spending forecasts compare to national trends?
Nationally, Americans plan to spend an average of $1,007 on holiday gifts, aligning with South Carolina’s forecast.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Holiday Spending Forecast | $1,007, consistent with last year’s forecast of $1,014. |
| Spending Distribution | 31% plan to spend up to $499; 18% between $500 and $999; 37% $1,000 or more. |
| Income-Based Variations | Lower-income households: $651; Middle-income: $847; Higher-income: $1,479. |
| Consumer Sentiment | 56% plan to spend the same as last year; 19% more; 23% less. |
| National Comparison | Nationally, Americans plan to spend an average of $1,007, aligning with South Carolina’s forecast. |
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Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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