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Easter Spending Expected to Hit Record High in 2026
Families feel the pinch as average budgets reach nearly $200 per household.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:04am
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According to the National Retail Federation, Easter spending is projected to reach a record $24.9 billion this year, with the average shopper budgeting $195.59 - also a new high. However, a WalletHub survey found that one in four Americans does not believe they can afford Easter celebrations in 2026.
Why it matters
The rising costs of Easter reflect broader inflationary pressures impacting household budgets across the country. While discount stores remain the most popular shopping destinations, many families are feeling the squeeze and may have to make difficult choices about their Easter celebrations this year.
The details
CBS 8 visited several stores in the San Diego area to compare Easter shopping costs. Building a 15-item Easter basket at a dollar store cost $20.53 after taxes, while the same basket at a big-box retailer was nearly three times as much at $64.84. For an Easter dinner for a family of four, the meal cost $57.55 at a discount grocer compared to $84.44 at a higher-priced store, with the ham being the biggest price driver.
- Easter spending is expected to hit a record $24.9 billion this year.
- The previous record for Easter spending was $24 billion set in 2023.
The players
National Retail Federation
The industry trade group that released the projections for record-high Easter spending in 2026.
WalletHub
The personal finance website that conducted a survey finding that one in four Americans does not think they can afford Easter this year.
The takeaway
The record-high Easter spending projections for 2026 underscore the financial pressures many families are facing, with one in four Americans reporting they cannot afford the holiday. While discount stores remain popular, the rising costs of Easter staples like ham, candy, and gifts may force some consumers to scale back their celebrations this year.
