toronto holiday shopping

Toronto shoppers reveal how much they are spending on holiday gifts this year

While the holidays can be a fun and festive time in Toronto, they can put a real financial strain on those already operating on a tight budget amid all the tariffs and economic uncertainty this year. 

With peak shopping season upon us, blogTO hit the streets to chat with Toronto residents and get a sense of how much people are willing to spend on holiday gifts this year.

One shopper told us they're looking to spend $500 on gifts for family and friends, while another said their budget is around $2,000. 

Another person surprised us by dropping an amount that would take a minimum-wage worker in Ontario about 568 hours to earn: a whopping $10,000. 

Why that amount? "Because I like to be comfortable everywhere I go," they said, adding that the amount isn't for gifts for others; it's a travel present for themselves.

Another local had a contrasting response, saying they're spending only $200 and making more DIY gifts this year.

While many people said their budgets are limited to "a few hundred bucks," one confident — and clearly generous — shopper simply said, "Whatever gets everyone satisfied."

@blogto What's your holiday budget this year? Host: @betabriii ♬ original sound - blogTO

How much are you looking to spend this holiday season?

Lead photo by

Jack Landau


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