Real or Artificial? Inside America’s Christmas Tree Market

Every December, the Christmas tree becomes a centerpiece in millions of American homes, but behind that tradition is a large and complex market shaped by consumer habits, agriculture, and global trade.

Each year, tens of millions of real and artificial Christmas trees are sold across the United States, with artificial trees now dominating most households due to convenience, reusability, and pre-lit designs.

Most artificial trees are imported, largely from China, which makes their prices vulnerable to tariffs, shipping costs, and trade policy changes.

Real Christmas trees, on the other hand, are grown domestically in all 50 states, take up to a decade to mature, and support thousands of local farms and seasonal workers.

While real tree prices have remained relatively stable, growers face growing challenges from climate change, extreme weather, and rising production costs.

Together, these factors show how a familiar holiday symbol reflects broader economic forces, from supply chains and consumer preferences to environmental pressures and international trade.