52% of People in the U.S. Planning a ‘Staycation Summer’ Instead of Traveling Due to Rising Cost of Living, Survey Finds

**Staycation Trend Grows Amid Rising Costs: A Closer Look at Workers’ Summer Plans**

As the summer progresses, many people across the United States are reevaluating their vacation plans amidst financial pressures. A recent survey conducted by Monster reveals that more than half of American workers are opting for staycations instead of extravagant trips this year, largely due to increasing costs associated with travel and living expenses.

The comprehensive report, dubbed the Staycation Summer Report 2026, surveyed 1,005 individuals from various age groups, including those aged 18-24 through to over 65. The results indicate that a significant 52% of participants are choosing to remain at home for their summer break, reflecting a shift in priorities as personal financial situations become more challenging.

Vicki Salemi, a career expert associated with Monster, commented on the implications of these findings. She noted that the soaring costs of living have forced many workers to make tough decisions regarding their summer plans. “For most people, this summer is less about where they’re travelling and more about enjoying time off while managing financial realities,” Salemi stated. The focus seems to be shifting towards affordability and flexibility rather than spending unnecessarily.

The survey highlights some stark statistics: 39% of respondents indicated that they are actively reducing their travel budgets, while 28% are putting an increased emphasis on saving rather than spending their money during the warmer months. Most notably, a staggering 86% of participants reported feeling heightened financial stress over the last year, with 46% describing this change as significant.

Interestingly, about 17% of those surveyed have maintained their summer plans without any alterations, whether that includes travel or simply remaining at home. Many are attempting to make the most of their time off, even if it doesn’t entail jetting off to exotic destinations.

Salemi encourages individuals to disconnect entirely from work during their staycations, emphasising the importance of taking regular breaks to maintain mental health. “If you take a staycation, it’s important to fully log off. Just because you didn’t jet away doesn’t mean that your time off is any less significant,” she advised.

She further emphasised the need for a guilt-free approach to taking time off work, suggesting that employees should feel empowered to use their holiday time without hesitation. For those whose jobs impose stringent expectations regarding availability, Salemi even suggests reassessing one’s employment situation if the ability to unplug is not respected.

“Be like a tourist in your own town or city,” she advised, encouraging people to discover local attractions, enjoy picnics in nearby parks, or explore new areas close to home. “While it may not have the glamour of a trip to the Eiffel Tower, it’s still vital to take the break you deserve.”

Moreover, Salemi noted the unique challenges faced by freelancers, who often lack formal paid time off. She advised them to similarly prioritise their mental health and establish clear boundaries with clients to ensure that they can also take time away from work without detriment.

The growing trend of staycations appears to resonate with many individuals struggling to navigate financial constraints while seeking a sense of relaxation and enjoyment. As workers creatively adapt to their situations, the overall sentiment seems to be one of resilience and resourcefulness.

As summer unfolds, it remains to be seen how people’s priorities will continue to evolve in response to ongoing economic challenges. Nevertheless, the focus on local experiences and careful budgeting signifies a thoughtful approach to leisure during these uncertain times, reaffirming the importance of self-care and mental wellbeing in the face of everyday stresses.