What Americans Really Spend on Clothes per Month (And Why)

Did you know the average American household shells out roughly $120 per month on clothes – or about $1,434 yearly? That figure might sound reasonable at first, but it reveals some interesting spending patterns worth understanding.

Breaking Down the Numbers

The data shows a stark gender divide in clothing expenses. Women and girls average $545 annually, while men and boys spend significantly less at $326. Add in $314 for footwear and $68 for infant clothing, and you get that $1,434 total. When you think about it monthly, that’s a considerable chunk of discretionary spending – roughly 2.3% of the typical American household’s budget.

What’s particularly fascinating is how the pandemic reshaped these numbers. Clothing spending tanked by over 20% in 2020 compared to 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Before the downturn, Americans were actually more generous with their wardrobes – households spent $1,866 in 2018 and $1,883 in 2019.

The Closet Reality Check

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: most people wear only about 20% of what they own. With that in mind, the average monthly clothing expense might deserve a second look.

Smart Strategies to Lower Your Monthly Clothing Bill

Start with a realistic budget. Once you know exactly how much you’re allocating per month to clothes, you gain control. A $50 monthly limit, for instance, lets you shop intentionally without anxiety.

Invest in quality over quantity. It seems backward, but spending $100 on a piece you’ll wear for five years beats buying $20 items that fall apart after a few wears. This approach shifts your mindset from impulse buys to thoughtful selections.

Build a timeless wardrobe instead of chasing trends. Fashion shifts faster than the seasons, but your wallet – and confidence – benefit more from a curated collection of outfits that work for you rather than whatever dominates social media this month.

Explore thrift and secondhand options. Whether through physical stores or online platforms, buying pre-loved clothing stretches your budget while reducing environmental impact. Clothing swaps with friends offer another creative way to refresh your wardrobe without spending anything.

The Bottom Line

Yes, many people are returning to offices and social events, which naturally triggers the urge to buy fresh clothing. But with living costs climbing and economic uncertainty looming, trimming your monthly clothing budget frees up resources for what truly matters – and you don’t have to sacrifice looking good to do it.