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While our focus often centers on career opportunities, the holiday season brings a chance to reflect on what truly matters: celebrating with loved ones and exchanging thoughtful gifts. As we approach the festive season of 2026, certain presents are bound to be more desired than others.
This year, the buzz around tech gadgets continues, with devices like the latest gaming consoles and smart home devices topping wish lists. Gift cards remain a staple, catering to a diverse range of preferences and needs.
However, Google searches reveal intriguing regional variations in gift preferences across the states.
To uncover this year’s top gifts, we analyzed Google Trends data to see what items each state is searching for the most.
The outcome? An array of highly sought-after gift cards and cutting-edge tech gadgets.
Most Interesting Findings
- 18 states are primarily searching for gift cards, while 11 states are leaning towards high-end tech products.
- The latest gaming console, the PS5, is in high demand, particularly in Delaware.
- Wyoming has a surprising preference for the PS4, showcasing its unique tastes.
- In Illinois, shoppers are focusing on grocery gift cards, while New Mexico prioritizes gas gift cards—gifts that help cover everyday expenses.
- Amazon gift cards are among the most searched gifts this year, especially popular in Maine.
- In Texas, noise-canceling headphones are a must-have for a peaceful holiday season.
- Oregon residents are showing enthusiasm for Taco Bell gift cards.
- Parents in Connecticut are preparing for the arrival of trendy baby UGG boots.
How We Determined This
Using Google Trends data, we identified the most popular Christmas gift that each state searched for more than any other. For example, Minnesota is particularly enthusiastic about Chipotle gift cards.
Google searches provide valuable insights into consumer preferences, especially as online shopping continues to thrive. We examined a wide range of terms, including gift cards, popular tech items, kitchen gadgets, and stocking stuffers.
This analysis covers searches from November 11, 2026, to December 7, 2026, capturing a significant portion of the holiday shopping period.
For those who procrastinate, the trend of last-minute gift card purchases is likely to continue.
It’s Official, Everyone Wants Gift Cards… Sort of
Based on search volume, it seems that, aside from the trendiest tech, many consumers are leaning towards gift cards as their preferred gift option.
After all, what better way to say “Happy Holidays” than with a $25 gift card to a favorite restaurant?
While gift cards may feel more personalized than cash, it’s essential to consider whether they align with the recipient’s preferences. Gift cards can be like money—with added steps for redemption.
If you’re responsible for corporate gifting, consider opting for traditional holiday bonuses—cash is often what employees truly appreciate.
Don’t believe us? Try paying your utility bill with a Starbucks gift card, and you’ll see how quickly that sentiment fades.
The Gift Each State Gives More Than Any Other
| State | Gift |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Shower Bombs |
| Alaska | Espresso machine |
| Arizona | Old Navy Gift Card |
| Arkansas | Lowe’s gift card |
| California | Bicycle |
| Colorado | Indoor Spin Bike |
| Connecticut | Baby Ugg Boots |
| Delaware | PlayStation 5 |
| Florida | Electric Scooter |
| Georgia | Freddie Freeman Jersey |
| Hawaii | iPhone |
| Idaho | Bread Maker |
| Illinois | Grocery Store Gift Card |
| Indiana | Dick’s Sporting Goods Gift Card |
| Iowa | Barnes and Noble Gift Card |
| Kansas | Best Buy Gift Card |
| Kentucky | Cocomelon |
| Louisiana | Fire Pit |
| Maine | Amazon Gift Card |
| Maryland | A Christmas Cruise |
| Massachusetts | Mandalorian Gifts |
| Michigan | Mirror from Lululemon |
| Minnesota | Chipotle Gift Card |
| Mississippi | Apple Watch |
| Missouri | Ring |
| Montana | Patagonia Jacket |
| Nebraska | Applebee’s Gift Card |
| Nevada | IKEA Gift Card |
| New Hampshire | Starbucks Gift Card |
| New Jersey | AirPods |
| New Mexico | Gas Card |
| New York | Leather |
| North Carolina | Krispy Kreme Gift Card |
| North Dakota | Massage Gun |
| Ohio | Bourbon Subscription |
| Oklahoma | Amazon Echo Dot |
| Oregon | Taco Bell Gift Card |
| Pennsylvania | Gift Card |
| Rhode Island | Cam Newton Jersey |
| South Carolina | Gourmet Food Gifts |
| South Dakota | Nikes |
| Tennessee | $25 Hulu Gift Card |
| Texas | Soundproof Headphones |
| Utah | Nintendo Switch |
| Vermont | Chess |
| Virginia | REI Gift Card |
| Washington | Cyberpunk 2077 |
| West Virginia | Xbox One |
| Wisconsin | McDonald’s Gift Cards |
| Wyoming | PlayStation 4 |
Author
Kathy is the head of content at Zippia with a knack for engaging audiences. Prior to joining Zippia, Kathy worked at Gateway Blend growing audiences across diverse brands. She graduated from Troy University with a degree in Social Science Education.
