Article Highlights
- The average Christmas tree price has increased over the course of a few years!
- Both options for trees have pros and cons – discover which is the best for your wallet!
- There are multiple ways I’ve discovered to earn extra cash for the holidays!
The Real Cost of christmas trees!
It is my favorite time of the year!
But, unfortunately, it’s sad to see people way overspending during the month of December.
In this article we are going to explore the major costs for Christmas decorations, discuss prices for Christmas trees, and give you some secret tips I’ve learned to save some cash!
“Real” Christmas Trees
Christmas tree lots are everywhere, at large stores like Home Depot, and at small pop-up spots within your town.
When you pick up a tree, you can expect to spend an average of $75, which, upfront doesn’t seem too bad!
Yet, there are additional costs that come with owning a real tree, and numbers add up over the years. For example, you should consider the cost of a tree stand, the materials to transport the tree home, and any tree fertilizer minerals that you put in the water.
Plus, did you know that there are around 30 million Christmas trees sold each year!?
Artificial Christmas Trees
There are advantages and disadvantages of an artificial tree.
For example, if you buy a cheap tree, you may deal with broken branches or light bulbs that burn out and cannot be replaced.
Now, the average tree cost is $350, with many costing far above that!
If you are going to save up money for Christmas, this will be one of your biggest expenses. I’ve seen some artificial trees over $3000!
Let’s take this tree as an example. The one-time cost of about $250 dollars is quite a bit when you compare it to the real tree. Yet, most last up to 10 years. I remember having a family tree that we had for 15 years!
With all this said, let’s do our math:
Real Christmas Trees Sold Each Year
The Real Price Difference
Real Tree
- Tree = $75
- Tree stand = $50
- Mat protector = $20
- Lights = $20+
- Ornaments/set = $50
For the following total, we are assuming you enjoy your Christmas décor and did not buy any additional decorations/ornaments/lights:
TOTAL FOR 1 YEAR = $215
TOTAL AFTER 5 YEARS = $515
TOTAL AFTER 10 YEARS = $890
Artificial Tree
- Tree = $250
- Lights = $20+
- Ornaments/set = $50
- Tree skirt = $40
- Tree bag = $15
TOTAL FOR 1 YEAR = $375
TOTAL AFTER 5 YEARS = $375
TOTAL AFTER 10 YEARS = $375
Now, if you are able to get items on sale, or even get a lesser expensive artificial tree, you could save a lot over the years!
How to Get Quick Cash for the Holidays
My favorite thing is to save money and help others do it too!
Do you need some quick cash to spend on those extra ornaments or stockings?
Check out some of my favorite survey sites below!
There is a reason why so many people use survey sites to earn easy money! SurveyJunkie was my first survey site that I joined awhile back and it has yet to disappoint!
If you love earning money, gift cards (hello, free Christmas gifts!!), and have some spare time, then check it out!
Also see: My Honest Review of SurveyJunkie
This company has quickly skyrocketed to be amongst the top options for survey sites! I’ve loved how streamlined the platform is and how I am able to get rewards fast!
My tip is to belong to more than one – I have a routine where I do a survey for Swagbucks while on the toilet (no shame!) and one before bed. I also do surveys from other sites in the morning. It’s quick and it adds up fast!
Let’s Summarize!
Were you aware of the average Christmas tree prices?
Thanks for stopping by and learning a little about my favorite holiday, and how to save some cash!
No matter what option you end up preferring, always be sure to keep your budget in mind!
What is your preference: real or artificial tree? I’d love to hear in the comments!!
Scarlett @ ThirtyEight Investing