British Columbians plan to spend almost 18% less than they did last year over the holidays this year – the biggest provincial drop in the country, according to the results of an RBC survey released November 13.
Respondents in B.C. say they intend to spend a total of $1,088 each over the holidays this year, compared with $1,326 in 2012. B.C. remains below the nation average of $1,193, which is up slightly compared with 2012 ($1,182).
Albertans plan on spending the most this holiday season, with an average of $1,325 each. This is down 11% compared with 2012 ($1,495).
Respondents in Quebec intend to spend the least in the country ($1,060) – an increase of 27% compared with 2012 ($835).
Other survey findings include:
- 77% of British Columbians plan to give gifts this, down from 86% in 2012;
- the average amount respondents in B.C. plan to spend solely on gifts for others is $557 – down 18% from 2012’s spending of $678; and
- 31% of those surveyed in B.C. intend to spend less this year, compared with 25% nationally.
