How much to spend on Secret Santa
Most Secret Santa groups spend $20 to $25 in an office, $15 to $40 with family or friends, and $5 to $15 with kids. The right number is the one everyone agrees to before the draw.
Typical Secret Santa budgets
| Group | Typical budget | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Office or team | $15 to $30 | Lower if there are junior staff, higher for small senior teams |
| Close friends | $20 to $50 | Often tied to the group's income |
| Extended family | $20 to $40 | Lower for large families, higher for small ones |
| Kids and school | $5 to $15 | Check school policy first |
| Neighbors or clubs | $10 to $20 | Keep it casual |
| Remote team (shipped) | $25 to $35 | Include shipping in the total |
How to set the number
- Ask in the group chat for a range, not a number. Say, "Between $15 and $30. What works?"
- Choose the lower end if you have mixed incomes. Nobody should feel stretched.
- Decide if tax and shipping count toward the budget. Say so in writing.
- Add a minimum only if you need it. A minimum protects from a $2 gift, but it adds pressure.
- Show the number everywhere the group looks. Hollyhush shows the budget on every page.
Hollyhush shows the budget and swap date on every page, so nobody has to ask again. Create your group, free
What counts toward the budget
- Gift price, before tax unless you decide otherwise.
- Shipping, if your group agreed it counts.
- Wrapping and cards: usually not. Keep them cheap.
- Handmade items: count materials, not hours.
If the group disagrees
Offer two tiers. For example, a $15 option and a $30 option, and match people by choice. Or split the group into two separate draws. Try the budget calculator if you want to see the total cost per person across rounds. If someone really can not afford it, give them a quiet way out, such as a handmade gift or a small pooled gift.
What to do when someone overspends
It happens. Do not call it out in public. If it is a pattern, remind the group of the rule next year and consider a hard cap with a gift receipt. The person who overspent can also offer to share the extra with the group, such as a box of treats.
A lower budget usually makes better gifts, because people pick thoughtfully instead of expensively.
How to make a small budget feel generous
A smaller budget does not mean a worse gift. People who have one clear person to think about tend to pick things that fit: a favorite snack, a mug for a tea fan, a small plant for a desk. Use a wishlist or ask one anonymous question, then add a handwritten card. Read Secret Santa gifts under $20 and under $25 for real gift types at each price, and the rules page for how to word your budget in the invite.
Frequently asked questions
How much should you spend on a Secret Santa gift?
About $20 to $25 at work, and $15 to $40 for family or friends. Kids' groups often use $5 to $15.
What is a good Secret Santa budget for the office?
$20 to $25 is the most common. Go lower if your team has a wide pay range.
Does the Secret Santa budget include tax?
Whatever you decide, say it in the invite. Many groups count the pre-tax price.
Is $10 enough for Secret Santa?
Yes, for kids, big groups or casual office swaps. A thoughtful $10 gift beats an expensive generic one.
Should you set a minimum price?
Only if the group wants it. A minimum protects against token gifts but can add pressure.
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