Here’s what you should know about how much holiday cheer will cost this year.
If you were one of the millions of Americans who worried about finding a Christmas tree in time for the holidays last year, you might be wondering how the crop of festive firs is faring this year. Luckily, it looks like there will be a robust supply of Christmas trees available for purchase this holiday season — but there’s another obstacle you’ll have to overcome.
Yes, we’re talking about inflation again. The cost of Christmas trees, like the cost of pretty much everything else in your life, is about to go up by quite a bit. You should expect to spend about 8% more on average for your tree this year than you did last year, though you might end up spending as much as 20% more in certain areas of the country.
Here’s an explainer on why those fresh trees are going to cost so much — and what you might want to consider as a substitute.
Why are Christmas tree prices are rising so much this year?
Inflation: It’s the gift that truly keeps on giving.
The two industries directly responsible for bringing Christmas trees to your door — agriculture and trucking — have been hit particularly hard in the last few years, and filling in the gaps is tough.
That’s what’s happening to Noble Mountain Free Farm in Oregon, whose CEO Bob Schaefer explained to CNN why Christmas tree costs are set to rise by so much: “Our trees are primarily transported on trucks. The trucking industry is facing a shortage. For our farms, they’re all challenged about getting their products from point A to point B for the holiday season and how much more it’s going to cost them.”
And yet in spite of these costly challenges, it appears that most people still plan on sticking to the festivities and getting a tree this year. Per a consumer survey conducted by Real Christmas Tree Board, most people said they fully expect trees to cost more this year, thanks to good ol’ inflation, but that it won’t stop them from getting a tree anyway.
Skip the Christmas tree farm and get one of these alternatives
Buying a new Christmas tree every single year can be a holiday highlight for some families — but it’s a complete nuisance for others. And if you think the cost of one Christmas tree for any given year is expensive, you might start to feel lightheaded when you consider how much someone might spend on trees over the course of their lifetime.
If you don’t want to have to pay for a new tree every year (and especially this year), consider one of these permanent alternatives.
Artificial Fir Christmas Tree
Wayfair
This artificial tree comes with pre-fluffed branches, has a 100% realistic feel, and is hypo-allergenic. Oh, and it’s currently on sale.
Classic Blue Spruce Tree
Balsam Hill
This classic Blue Spruce tree is highly rated, and for good reason: It comes in multiple sizes (from 4.5′ to 9′) and styles (yes, you can get one with a lighting package like the image above). With so many options to choose from, this tree could fit perfectly into any household.
Mercury Glass Tree
Pottery Barn
Skip the traditional Christmas tree altogether and opt for one of these sleek, modern, and festive glass Christmas trees. Or get several and use them as the ultimate decor for your table at dinnertime. They come in a range of sizes, so it’s easy to mix and match for any type of space.
Sparkling Amelia Pine Christmas Tree
Home Depot
This tree comes pre-frosted, which will give you that White Christmas feeling even if temperatures don’t allow for snowfall in your area. It also comes with LED lights and easy tech installation, making it the ultimate no-hassle order for the holidays.
Light Pink Spruce Tree
Amazon
If you’re tired of the same old, same old, then consider sprucing up your tree selection (pun intended) with a colorful choice. This light pink spruce tree comes with a metal stand and easy assembly instructions, and it’s guaranteed to be a conversation starter with family and friends.
Wooden Christmas Tree
Etsy
Another more artistic (and sustainable) alternative to a Christmas tree is a wooden tree like this one. These trees are made in a number of different styles and designs, and have no plastic materials whatsoever, which is a huge win for a holiday that’s not exactly known for being friendly to the planet. Check out all the different options available, and you’ll never go back to an old-fashioned tree again.
