As we step into 2025, understanding millennial shopping statistics is more critical than ever for businesses aiming to stay ahead in the competitive retail landscape. Millennials, often dubbed the most influential generation in driving consumer trends, continue to reshape the way products are purchased and marketed. From their preference for online shopping to their growing demand for sustainable products, their habits highlight the evolving priorities of modern consumers. By analyzing the latest millennial shopping statistics for 2025, brands can uncover valuable insights into this generation’s spending behaviors and adapt their strategies to meet their unique needs. This article explores the most recent data and what it means for the future of retail, offering a comprehensive guide for businesses to thrive in a millennial-dominated market.
Millennial Shopping Statistics 2025 (Editor's Choice)
- Millennials' annual retail spending totals $1.928 trillion, accounting for 26.8% of all U.S. retail spending.
- The average millennial spends $27,710 annually on retail, 2.95% more than the average consumer.
- 85% of millennials have shopped online in the past 12 months; 82% have shopped in-store.
- Millennials are 19% more likely to prefer online shopping and 19.1% less likely to prefer in-store shopping compared to Gen Z.
- 38% of millennials primarily shop in-store, 32% primarily shop online, and 30% shop both equally.
- 44% of U.S. millennials shop online on a daily or weekly basis.
- 43% of millennials have purchased a product directly through a social media platform in the past three months.
- 36% of millennials purchase products based on an influencer’s recommendation.
- 83% of millennials favor brands that align with their values.
- 45% of millennials are highly focused on budgeting, intending to buy only what they need due to financial concerns.
- 74% of millennials admit to making frequent or occasional impulse purchases.
- 73% of millennials prefer to shop using their phones, making mobile shopping their primary method.
- 38% of millennials prefer to shop online rather than in-store.
- Millennials are projected to overtake Baby Boomers in population in 2024, reaching 73.4 million.
- Millennials are set to inherit over $68 trillion from Baby Boomers by 2030, representing one of the greatest wealth transfers in modern times.
- In 2024, eCommerce sales are projected to reach nearly $6.4 trillion globally, accounting for 21.8% of total retail sales.
- Costco added roughly 2.5 million millennial and Gen Z household memberships last year, with about half of new sign-ups under 40.
- 88% of millennials' Black Friday spending in 2024 was charged to credit cards, up from 79% in 2023.
- Millennials are willing to pay an additional 10% for sustainable products.
- Millennials spend an average of $172.50 per month on apparel, 24.6% more than American consumers on average.
Millennial Shopping Statistics 2025
-
Millennials' annual retail spending totals $1.928 trillion, accounting for 26.8% of all U.S. retail spending.
This massive contribution to retail spending demonstrates the significant purchasing power of millennials, making them a crucial demographic for businesses. As this generation continues to enter its peak earning years, their influence on retail trends is expected to grow. Companies that understand and cater to millennial preferences, such as convenience, sustainability, and personalization, are likely to see continued success. The focus on millennial-driven markets could also push innovations in eCommerce, subscription models, and omnichannel shopping experiences. -
The average millennial spends $27,710 annually on retail, 2.95% more than the average consumer.
Millennials' above-average retail spending underscores their willingness to invest in goods and experiences that align with their values and lifestyles. This spending trend suggests that businesses should prioritize offering high-quality, ethically sourced products and services. In the future, we may see brands doubling down on creating products tailored to millennial needs, such as sustainable fashion or wellness-focused products. This could also shape the economy by driving sectors like travel, health, and technology. -
85% of millennials have shopped online in the past 12 months; 82% have shopped in-store.
The nearly equal split between online and in-store shopping among millennials indicates the importance of providing seamless omnichannel experiences. Retailers must balance their digital and physical strategies, creating synergy between eCommerce platforms and brick-and-mortar locations. In the future, businesses that integrate technologies like AR for virtual try-ons or app-based rewards programs may thrive. This trend may also lead to a reinvention of retail spaces as experiential hubs rather than just sales locations. -
Millennials are 19% more likely to prefer online shopping and 19.1% less likely to prefer in-store shopping compared to Gen Z.
The preference for online shopping reflects millennials' desire for convenience and time-saving options. This suggests that businesses must optimize their digital shopping platforms to maintain millennial loyalty. In contrast to Gen Z's tendency to enjoy in-store experiences, millennials may push retailers to focus on faster shipping, streamlined websites, and efficient customer service. Future innovations, like AI-driven personalization or drone delivery, could further shape their shopping habits. -
38% of millennials primarily shop in-store, 32% primarily shop online, and 30% shop both equally.
The near-even split among millennials' shopping preferences highlights their adaptability and the importance of catering to diverse needs. Retailers should focus on hybrid strategies, such as buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS) options or in-store digital integration. In the future, this balance may evolve, with environmental concerns influencing shifts toward online shopping to reduce emissions. Retailers that excel in both domains are likely to capture the most market share. -
44% of U.S. millennials shop online on a daily or weekly basis.
Frequent online shopping showcases millennials' reliance on eCommerce for both convenience and variety. This trend emphasizes the need for businesses to prioritize user-friendly platforms and competitive pricing. In the future, advancements in AI and machine learning could make online shopping even more personalized and efficient, increasing customer loyalty. It may also drive businesses to focus on sustainability, such as eco-friendly packaging, to appeal to millennial values. -
43% of millennials have purchased a product directly through a social media platform in the past three months.
Social commerce is clearly a growing avenue for millennials, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok playing a key role in product discovery and purchasing. This trend indicates that businesses should invest in social media marketing and shoppable posts to drive sales. In the future, the integration of AR and VR in social media could create immersive shopping experiences, further blurring the line between entertainment and retail. This shift could also lead to a surge in influencer collaborations as a critical sales channel. -
36% of millennials purchase products based on an influencer’s recommendation.
Influencers hold considerable sway over millennial purchasing decisions, reflecting the importance of authenticity and relatability in marketing. Brands should focus on building partnerships with influencers who align with their values to build trust and drive sales. This trend could lead to the rise of micro and nano influencers, who often have more engaged audiences. As technology evolves, influencers may leverage tools like AI-generated content or virtual influencers to create innovative campaigns. -
83% of millennials favor brands that align with their values.
Millennials' preference for value-driven brands highlights their commitment to supporting ethical and sustainable businesses. Companies must prioritize transparency and socially responsible practices to win their loyalty. In the future, certifications like Fair Trade and B Corp could become even more critical in gaining consumer trust. This shift may also influence legislation and industry standards, encouraging widespread adoption of sustainable practices. -
45% of millennials are highly focused on budgeting, intending to buy only what they need due to financial concerns.
Budget-conscious millennials emphasize the importance of affordability and perceived value in purchasing decisions. Businesses that offer discounts, loyalty programs, or high-quality products at reasonable prices can capture this audience. In the future, economic uncertainties and rising living costs may further amplify this focus on frugality. Retailers that innovate around affordability, such as subscription models or refurbished goods, are likely to succeed. -
74% of millennials admit to making frequent or occasional impulse purchases.
Despite being budget-conscious, millennials are also prone to impulse buying, often driven by convenience or emotional triggers. Brands can capitalize on this behavior by leveraging scarcity tactics, limited-time offers, and engaging content. In the future, AI-powered recommendations and gamified shopping experiences may further influence impulse purchases. However, brands must balance this with ethical marketing practices to maintain long-term trust. -
73% of millennials prefer to shop using their phones, making mobile shopping their primary method.
Mobile shopping is millennials' go-to method, underlining the need for optimized mobile apps and responsive websites. Retailers should prioritize features like fast load times, easy navigation, and secure payment options. The future may see more innovations in mobile commerce, such as voice-activated shopping or integration with smart devices. This trend could also boost mobile wallets and app-exclusive discounts. -
38% of millennials prefer to shop online rather than in-store.
The preference for online shopping reflects a desire for convenience, variety, and ease of comparison. Retailers must invest in eCommerce platforms that offer a seamless user experience and excellent customer service. Over time, this preference may drive further investments in online shopping technologies, such as AI-driven search and blockchain for secure transactions. It could also reshape traditional retail spaces into more experience-focused environments. -
Millennials are projected to overtake Baby Boomers in population in 2024, reaching 73.4 million.
With millennials becoming the largest demographic, their preferences will shape future market trends and policies. Businesses must cater to this generation's values, such as sustainability, diversity, and digital convenience. As their purchasing power grows, they could drive shifts in industries like real estate, travel, and technology. Governments and organizations may also prioritize addressing millennial-specific concerns, such as student debt and affordable housing. -
Millennials are set to inherit over $68 trillion from Baby Boomers by 2030, representing one of the greatest wealth transfers in modern times.
The impending wealth transfer will significantly impact millennial spending habits and investment choices. This newfound wealth may drive growth in luxury markets, sustainable products, and impact investing. Businesses that position themselves as value-driven and innovative could benefit from this shift. The financial sector may also see increased demand for wealth management and financial planning services tailored to millennials. -
In 2024, eCommerce sales are projected to reach nearly $6.4 trillion globally, accounting for 21.8% of total retail sales.
The growth of eCommerce emphasizes the need for businesses to invest in digital transformation and global logistics. Millennials, as tech-savvy consumers, are likely to drive much of this growth, pushing for faster shipping and personalized experiences. This trend may accelerate the adoption of AI, automation, and blockchain technologies in retail. It could also lead to increased competition among global marketplaces. -
Costco added roughly 2.5 million millennial and Gen Z household memberships last year, with about half of new sign-ups under 40.
The surge in memberships highlights millennials' interest in value-based shopping and bulk buying. Retailers like Costco must continue to adapt their offerings to appeal to this demographic, such as eco-friendly products or digital-first strategies. This trend could influence other retailers to offer subscription-based services or hybrid membership models. It also underscores the potential for wholesale clubs to attract younger audiences with curated experiences. -
88% of millennials' Black Friday spending in 2024 was charged to credit cards, up from 79% in 2023.
The increase in credit card usage reflects millennials' reliance on credit to fund major purchases. This trend highlights the need for financial education and responsible lending practices. In the future, businesses might explore partnerships with fintech companies to offer innovative payment options like BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later). However, rising credit card debt could also influence spending behaviors and demand for affordable options. -
Millennials are willing to pay an additional 10% for sustainable products.
Millennials' willingness to pay a premium for sustainability reinforces the importance of ethical practices in business. Companies that prioritize eco-friendly initiatives are likely to gain a competitive edge. This trend may also encourage the growth of circular economies and renewable energy adoption. As awareness of environmental issues grows, this premium may become a baseline expectation rather than an exception. -
Millennials spend an average of $172.50 per month on apparel, 24.6% more than American consumers on average.
The high spending on apparel demonstrates millennials' focus on self-expression and trend adoption. Retailers should focus on creating versatile, stylish, and sustainable clothing lines to capture this market. In the future, fashion brands might rely more on AI-driven personalization to offer tailored suggestions. This trend could also drive innovations in textile technology and ethical sourcing.
Millennial Shopping Statistics 2025 Conclusion: The Future of Retail in a Millennial-Driven World
The millennial shopping statistics for 2025 paint a clear picture of a generation that values convenience, sustainability, and authenticity in their purchasing decisions. With their growing purchasing power and influence, millennials are setting the stage for the future of retail, pushing businesses to innovate and align with their evolving preferences. Brands that prioritize seamless online experiences, ethical practices, and value-driven marketing will stand out in an increasingly competitive market. As this dynamic generation continues to shape global consumer trends, staying attuned to their habits and values will be essential for long-term success. The future of retail belongs to those who listen, adapt, and connect with millennials on a deeper level.
Sources:
- https://capitaloneshopping.com/research/millennial-shopping-statistics/
- https://capitaloneshopping.com/research/millennial-shopping-statistics/
- https://capitaloneshopping.com/research/online-shopping-demographics/
- https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/how-each-generation-shops-differently
- https://grabon.com/blog/millennial-shopping-statistics/
- https://www.attentive.com/blog/millennial-gen-z-shopping-habits
- https://influencermarketinghub.com/millennial-spending-habits/
- https://www.marketingscoop.com/marketing/online-buyer-behavior-data-statistics-trends-predictions-for-2024/
- https://www.businessinsider.com/costco-members-getting-younger-gen-z-millennial-shoppers-choose-wholesale-2024-9
- https://nypost.com/2024/12/11/business/millennials-rely-on-credit-cards-at-record-rate-during-2024-holiday-season-study/
- https://capitaloneshopping.com/research/millennial-shopping-statistics/