Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics

The retail landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with both online and in-store shopping experiencing notable shifts. Understanding the dynamics between these two modes is crucial for retailers, consumers, and policymakers. Online shopping offers unparalleled convenience, a vast array of choices, and the ability to compare prices effortlessly. In contrast, in-store shopping provides immediate product access, tactile experiences, and personalized customer service. The interplay between these shopping methods influences consumer behavior, retail strategies, and economic trends. Analyzing current statistics sheds light on consumer preferences, technological advancements, and market trajectories, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions in an evolving marketplace.

 

 

20 Top Relevant Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics for 2025 (Editor's Choice)

 

1. U.S. consumers spent $7.071 trillion in-store and $1.257 trillion online, totaling $8.328 trillion in retail sales.
2. As of early 2023, approximately 43% of U.S. consumers preferred online shopping over in-store, the highest among surveyed countries.
3. Online shopping accounted for about 19% of global retail sales, with projections to reach nearly 25% by 2027.
4. By 2025, online shops are expected to generate approximately $563.4 billion in revenue.
5. In 2022, over 2.3 billion consumers made at least one online purchase, representing 27% of the global population.
6. 52% of Gen Z in the U.S. preferred online shopping, while 48% favored in-store.
7. 67% of millennials preferred online shopping, compared to 72% of seniors who favored in-store shopping.
8. 40% of consumers made an in-store purchase at least once a week, while 27% made weekly online purchases.
9. 81% of retail shoppers conducted online research before making a purchase.
10. 47% of consumers who preferred in-store shopping cited the ease of product comparisons, and 48% preferred in-store shopping for convenience.
11. 30% of consumers who ordered groceries online expected same-day delivery.
12. 45% of consumers primarily shopped in brick-and-mortar stores, with 72% visiting physical stores weekly.
13. 53% of consumers shopped both online and in-store.
14. 37% of consumers preferred purchasing personal electronics online, while 35% preferred buying apparel, shoes, and accessories online.
15. 29% of consumers preferred purchasing beauty and personal care products online.
16. 23% of consumers preferred purchasing furnishings and appliances online.
17. 17% of U.S. consumers preferred purchasing groceries and household goods online.
18. 54.5% of online transactions occurred on smartphones, up from 51.1% in 2022.
19. Buy Now, Pay Later options contributed $18.2 billion in online spending, a 9.6% increase from 2022.
20. AI chatbots increased traffic to retail sites by 1,300% compared to the previous year.

 

Expanding on Key Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics for 2025

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #1:

U.S. Consumers Spent $7.071 Trillion In-Store and $1.257 Trillion Online in 2023, Totaling $8.328 Trillion in Retail Sales

The retail landscape in 2023 demonstrated the enduring dominance of in-store shopping, with in-store sales making up a significant majority of the total $8.328 trillion spent. Despite this, the $1.257 trillion spent online highlights the steady growth of e-commerce as a convenient alternative for consumers. These figures emphasize the importance of omnichannel strategies for retailers aiming to capture both markets. As online platforms continue to improve in usability and logistics, the balance between in-store and online sales may shift further in favor of e-commerce in the coming years.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #2:

Approximately 43% of U.S. Consumers Preferred Online Shopping Over In-Store in Early 2023

In early 2023, 43% of U.S. consumers favored online shopping, reflecting the growing preference for convenience and a wide selection. This statistic places the U.S. at the forefront of the online shopping trend among surveyed countries. Retailers can interpret this as a sign to invest in seamless online experiences, from user-friendly websites to fast delivery options. However, maintaining engaging in-store experiences will remain crucial to retain the other 57% of the market that values physical interactions with products.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #3:

Online Shopping Accounted for 19% of Global Retail Sales in 2023, Projected to Reach 25% by 2027

E-commerce’s share of global retail sales reached 19% in 2023, signaling a notable presence in the retail sector. Projections to grow to 25% by 2027 highlight the continuous expansion of online platforms and their influence on consumer behavior. Businesses aiming to capitalize on this growth must focus on enhancing their digital presence and ensuring their platforms are accessible globally. This trend also underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures as more transactions are conducted online.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #4:

Online Shops Expected to Generate $563.4 Billion in Revenue by 2025

The forecast of $563.4 billion in e-commerce revenue by 2025 showcases the immense potential of online retail. Factors contributing to this growth include mobile shopping, AI-driven personalization, and improved logistics. Retailers that invest in cutting-edge technology and data-driven strategies are likely to secure a larger share of this market. This growth also represents an opportunity for smaller businesses to reach a global audience through efficient digital marketing.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #5:

Over 2.3 Billion Consumers Made at Least One Online Purchase in 2022, Representing 27% of the Global Population

The statistic that 27% of the global population engaged in online shopping in 2022 underscores the widespread adoption of e-commerce. With over 2.3 billion online shoppers, even regions with limited internet access contributed to this trend. This represents a significant opportunity for retailers to tap into underserved markets through localized and multilingual platforms. As internet connectivity improves worldwide, the number of online shoppers is expected to grow exponentially.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #6:

52% of Gen Z in the U.S. Preferred Online Shopping, While 48% Favored In-Store

Gen Z’s preferences for shopping methods are almost evenly split, with a slight tilt toward online shopping. This highlights the tech-savviness of this generation and their appreciation for digital convenience. However, their significant in-store shopping preference emphasizes the importance of tactile experiences and social aspects. Retailers targeting Gen Z must innovate in both online and in-store spaces, offering features like virtual try-ons and experiential shopping environments.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #7:

67% of Millennials Preferred Online Shopping Compared to 72% of Seniors Favoring In-Store Shopping

The contrast between millennials and seniors in their shopping preferences underscores generational differences in comfort with technology. While millennials favor the convenience of online shopping, seniors prioritize the tactile and social elements of in-store experiences. Retailers can bridge this gap by making online platforms more user-friendly for older demographics and ensuring physical stores remain accessible and welcoming. Tailored marketing strategies will be key to addressing these divergent preferences.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #8:

40% of Consumers Made Weekly In-Store Purchases, While 27% Made Weekly Online Purchases

Weekly shopping habits reveal that in-store shopping continues to play a vital role in consumers’ lives. The 40% in-store frequency reflects its importance for immediate needs and routine purchases. Meanwhile, the 27% opting for weekly online shopping highlights the growing trust in e-commerce for planned purchases. Retailers should focus on optimizing both channels to meet these varying consumer behaviors, ensuring convenience and efficiency across platforms.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #9:

81% of Retail Shoppers Conducted Online Research Before Making a Purchase

The prevalence of online research before purchases, known as "webrooming," underscores the interplay between digital and physical shopping. Consumers increasingly rely on online platforms for product information but still value the ability to finalize purchases in-store. Retailers must ensure their online presence provides accurate, detailed, and engaging product descriptions. Integrating reviews, comparisons, and in-store availability checks can further enhance this research-shopping cycle.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #10:

47% of Consumers Preferred In-Store Shopping for Product Comparisons, While 48% Valued It for Convenience

The preference for in-store shopping for comparisons and convenience highlights its unique advantages over online platforms. Physical stores allow consumers to evaluate products in real-time and make immediate purchases. Retailers can enhance this experience by incorporating digital tools like interactive kiosks to provide additional product information. This fusion of traditional and digital elements can make in-store shopping more engaging and efficient.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #11:

30% of Consumers Who Ordered Groceries Online Expected Same-Day Delivery

Same-day delivery expectations in grocery shopping reflect consumers’ growing demand for speed and convenience. Meeting this demand requires advanced inventory management and efficient logistics systems. Retailers investing in last-mile delivery solutions, such as drones or autonomous vehicles, will be better positioned to satisfy this market segment. This trend also emphasizes the importance of real-time updates and accurate delivery tracking.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #12:

45% of Consumers Primarily Shopped in Brick-and-Mortar Stores, With 72% Visiting Weekly

The enduring popularity of brick-and-mortar stores highlights their critical role in retail. Weekly visits by 72% of consumers show their importance for routine and immediate purchases. To maintain this customer base, physical stores must offer superior customer service, exclusive promotions, and engaging layouts. The integration of digital tools, such as mobile apps for in-store navigation, can further enhance the shopping experience.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #13:

83% of Consumers Shopped Both Online and In-Store

The widespread adoption of omnichannel shopping highlights the need for seamless integration between digital and physical retail. Consumers value the flexibility of using both channels based on convenience and need. Retailers that provide consistent branding and smooth transitions between online and in-store experiences can build stronger customer loyalty. Features like buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and in-store returns for online purchases are critical to this strategy.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #14:

37% of Consumers Preferred Purchasing Personal Electronics Online, While 35% Preferred Buying Apparel Online

The popularity of purchasing electronics and apparel online reflects the convenience and competitive pricing of e-commerce platforms. Detailed product descriptions, high-quality images, and user reviews are critical in influencing these purchases. For apparel, virtual try-on tools and flexible return policies can further boost consumer confidence. Retailers in these sectors must prioritize enhancing the online shopping experience to maintain their competitive edge.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #15:

29% of Consumers Preferred Purchasing Beauty and Personal Care Products Online

The online beauty market’s growth is driven by the influence of social media and personalized recommendations. AI-powered tools that match products to individual skin types or preferences are becoming increasingly popular. Retailers should also leverage influencers and video content to showcase product applications. Free samples with online purchases can enhance customer loyalty and encourage repeat purchases.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #16:

23% of Consumers Preferred Purchasing Furnishings and Appliances Online

The growing preference for buying furnishings and appliances online highlights the importance of convenience and digital visualization tools. Augmented reality (AR) features that allow consumers to see how products fit into their spaces are particularly influential. Retailers can further attract customers with flexible delivery and installation services. Transparent return policies will also help reduce hesitation in making high-value purchases online.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #17:

17% of U.S. Consumers Preferred Purchasing Groceries and Household Goods Online

While grocery e-commerce lags behind other categories, its steady growth indicates increasing consumer trust. Retailers can capitalize on this trend by offering user-friendly platforms and subscription services for regular deliveries. Partnerships with local farms and suppliers can provide unique selling points for eco-conscious consumers. Efficient packaging and accurate delivery windows are critical for ensuring customer satisfaction in this segment.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #18:

54.5% of Online Transactions Occurred on Smartphones, Up From 51.1% in 2022

The rise in smartphone-based transactions underscores the growing importance of mobile commerce. Retailers must prioritize mobile-first designs to ensure smooth navigation and quick checkouts. Features like biometric authentication and secure payment options can enhance user trust. As mobile devices become central to online shopping, investments in app development will be crucial for long-term success.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #19:

Buy Now, Pay Later Options Contributed $18.2 Billion in Online Spending, a 9.6% Increase From 2022

The growing popularity of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options highlights their appeal to budget-conscious consumers. Retailers offering BNPL services can attract more customers and increase average order values. However, managing credit risks and ensuring compliance with financial regulations are critical for long-term sustainability. Transparent terms and conditions will help build consumer trust in these payment options.

Online Shopping vs. In-Store Statistics #20:

AI Chatbots Increased Traffic to Retail Sites by 1,300% Compared to the Previous Year

The dramatic increase in traffic driven by AI chatbots showcases their effectiveness in engaging customers. By providing instant assistance and personalized recommendations, chatbots enhance the overall shopping experience. Retailers investing in AI-driven tools can reduce operational costs and improve customer satisfaction. As chatbot technology evolves, its role in e-commerce will likely expand to include more complex interactions.

Sources:

1. 1. https://passivesecrets.com/in-store-vs-online-shopping-statistics/
   2. https://cloudwards.net/online-shopping-statistics/
   3. https://tidio.com/blog/online-shopping-statistics/
   4. https://mailmodo.com/guides/in-store-vs-online-shopping-statistics/
   5. https://capitaloneshopping.com/research/online-vs-in-store-shopping-statistics/
   6. https://barrons.com/articles/holiday-e-commerce-sales-adobe-c81b3c52