Nevada consumers are expected to spend $6.5 billion on gifts, food, décor and other seasonal items this holiday season, according to the Retail Association of Nevada (RAN).
This represents a 4.0 percent increase from last year’s record spending, based on data from the National Retail Federation (NRF). Nationwide, consumers are projected to spend an average of $890 per person this holiday season.
Consumers are navigating a complex landscape, inflation, elevated interest rates, and a reliance on credit are all factors contributing to a more discerning shopper this season. RAN’s 4% projection accounts for these realities, suggesting that while spending will increase in absolute dollars, consumers are prioritizing value, seeking deals, and managing their budgets strategically.
“Retailers have adapted incredibly well to the new economic normal. They are offering compelling value, innovating their business models, and working tirelessly to meet the consumer where they are, both online and in-store,” said Bryan Wachter, President of RAN, “This season won’t be without its challenges, but our members are prepared to deliver a successful and competitive holiday shopping experience.”
Continuing a decade-long trend, shoppers are prioritizing gift giving, allocating an average of $628 specifically for presents. This year 42 percent of holiday shoppers had planned to browse and purchase items before November. Among those starting early, 54 percent say they do so to spread out their holiday budgets, 41 percent to avoid last-minute stress, and 40 percent because they’ve found deals too good to pass up.
Online shopping remains the top choice for holiday purchases, with 55 percent of consumers planning to shop online. Other leading destinations include grocery stores (46 percent), department stores (44 percent), and discount retailers (42 percent).
The gifts consumers hope to receive this year are largely consistent with last year’s preferences. Gift cards (50 percent) remain the most desired items, followed by clothing and accessories (46 percent), books and other media (27 percent), and personal care or beauty products (23 percent).
In Nevada, consumer categories tied to holiday spending are projected to account for 28.0 percent of total retail activity, the largest share since 2019.
Retailers in Nevada are hiring seasonal workers to handle the traditional surge in holiday shopping. RAN estimates that payrolls will expand by 2,900 seasonal positions across the state.
RAN remains optimistic about the season and the broader economic environment, urging policymakers to continue focusing on measures that support economic stability and consumer confidence.
