Maryland’s $259M Regifting Economy: Over Half of Residents Participate

Mechanicsville, MD- As the holiday season winds down, many Marylanders are preparing to give their unwanted Christmas presents a second life — or a second owner. A recent survey by BadCredit.org reveals that 52% of Marylanders plan to regift or resell their Christmas gifts, contributing to a burgeoning regifting economy worth an estimated $259.5 million statewide.

Maryland’s Regifting Economy in Context

The survey, which polled 3,000 people nationwide, found that 43% of Americans admit to reselling or regifting presents, creating a national regifting economy valued at $11 billion. Maryland ranks high among states embracing this trend, with an average gift value of $104.50 and over 2.48 million residents expected to participate.

Nationally, Rhode Island leads the pack, with 83% of its population regifting or reselling presents, followed by Nevada (59%) and New York (56%). Maryland ranks seventh but surpasses several larger states in total regifting value.

Financial Pressures Drive the Trend

The survey highlights financial pressures as a key motivator. While inflation has eased somewhat in 2024, the high cost of living continues to influence holiday habits.

“Regifting or reselling has become a smart financial strategy for budget-conscious consumers,” said Jon McDonald, senior editor at BadCredit.org. “What was once considered taboo is now a resourceful way to manage holiday expenses while ensuring gifts find appreciative new homes.”

Moral Dilemmas and Awkward Moments

Despite the practicality, many Marylanders grapple with the ethical implications of regifting. According to the survey:

• 38% of Marylanders believe it’s morally wrong to regift or resell a present.
• 48% have been caught in the act, leading to awkward situations.
• Nearly half of respondents admitted feeling guilt or regret after regifting a present, particularly if it was from a close friend or loved one.

Additionally, 71% of survey participants nationwide confessed they could tell immediately upon opening a gift that they would never use or wear it.

National and Local Insights

Maryland’s regifting economy is part of a larger national trend that reflects changing attitudes. The top 10 regifting states by percentage of participants and the size of their regifting economies include:

1. Rhode Island (83%; $74.4M)
2. Nevada (59%; $154.6M)
3. New York (56%; $886.2M)
4. Arizona (54%; $324.8M)
5. Utah (53%; $147.5M)
6. Louisiana (52%; $192.4M)
7. Maryland (52%; $259.5M)
8. Massachusetts (51%; $292.0M)
9. Wyoming (50%; $23.8M)
10. Georgia (45%; $407.9M)

The New Normal

The rising acceptance of regifting reflects a cultural shift. “This trend highlights how Americans are adapting to economic challenges in creative ways,” McDonald added. “Regifting has moved from a stigma to a practical solution for budget-conscious consumers.”

For more information on the study and methodology, visit BadCredit.org.

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