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New York’s holiday lighting extravagance
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and, for many, a chance to showcase their festive spirit through dazzling light displays. According to a recent study, New Yorkers are leading the charge in holiday lighting expenses, spending an astonishing $463.25 annually on lights alone.
This figure places them at the top of the list nationwide, significantly outpacing other states like California and Indiana, which spend $439.44 and $433.53, respectively.
While the Big Apple shines brightly, it’s interesting to note that Idaho residents enjoy the lowest holiday lighting costs, averaging just $117.64 per year.
This stark contrast highlights the varying traditions and practices across the country, with some regions embracing a more extravagant approach to holiday decorations.
City rankings and display durations
When it comes to cities, Indianapolis, Buffalo, and Green Bay take the top three spots for the highest spending on holiday lights, with averages of $559.25, $543.25, and $491.96, respectively.
Interestingly, these cities also lead in keeping their displays up the longest, with residents in Green Bay and Indianapolis leaving their lights on for up to 10 weeks.
In New York City, residents typically keep their lights on for an average of 8.3 hours per day, maintaining their festive displays for nearly seven weeks.
This dedication to holiday cheer places them ninth among U.S. cities for display duration, showcasing a commitment to spreading joy during the festive season.
Energy efficiency and holiday spirit
As the holiday season approaches, many are considering the environmental impact of their lighting choices.
Traditional incandescent bulbs consume around 40 watts per hour, but energy-efficient LED lights use about 70% less energy, making them a popular alternative for eco-conscious consumers. According to EnergySage, the shift towards LED lighting not only reduces energy consumption but also lowers electricity bills, allowing families to enjoy their holiday displays without breaking the bank.
Despite the high costs associated with holiday lighting, a survey revealed that 85% of respondents plan to hang lights this year. However, 25% of those opting out cite expense as a primary reason. This statistic underscores the financial strain that holiday decorations can impose, prompting some to reconsider their festive plans.
