Good news for Santa-believers as parents tend to spend more on kids who believe in the chimney invader. A 2024 survey of 2,000 US parents revealed that parents of children who believe in Santa Claus planned to spend over $100 more on gifts that year compared to those whose children do not believe. Specifically, these parents intend to spend an average of $491 on gifts, while parents of non-believing children plan to spend $388. The survey also indicates that children who believe in Santa are twice as likely to be excited for Christmas morning, 87%, compared to non-believers, 41%.Β  On average, believing children are expected to receive seven gifts, whereas non-believing children will receive four.Β  Parents reported that popular gift categories include clothing (57%), electronics (36%), video games (26%), books (26%), puzzles and games (24%), and candy (23%). 56% of parents have used the concept of Santa's "naughty or nice" list to encourage good behavior in their children. Despite this, 87% of parents admitted that the list is arbitrary, and they would likely give gifts even if their child were on the naughty list.

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