Image Credit Resonance

New research shows that the top 10% of U.S. households now account for more than half of all consumer spending, with their influence most pronounced in the travel sector, where their annual leisure expenditure is projected to reach $544 billion by 2026, fundamentally altering travel trends, hospitality investment, and destination growth.

Affluent Households Dominate U.S. Consumer and Travel Spending

A recent report from Resonance Consultancy, titled "2026 Future of Luxury Travel," highlights a significant shift in the U.S. consumer landscape. The top 10% and top 1% of American households now account for more than half of all consumer spending in the country. This concentration is especially evident in travel and tourism, where their collective leisure spending is expected to reach $544 billion in 2026.

The findings are based on surveys of 1,050 households in the top 10% (annual income $240,000–$600,000 and/or net worth $1.5 million–$13 million) and 451 households in the top 1% (income above $600,000 and/or net worth over $13 million). The report, conducted in partnership with the research firm Léger, has tracked affluent American travelers since 2007 and documents how their behaviors are shaping the travel economy.

Increased Trip Frequency and Spending Among the Wealthy

The report reveals that affluent Americans travel more frequently and spend more per trip than the average U.S. traveler. The top 10% now take an average of 4.3 leisure trips per year, while the top 1% take six trips annually. This is more than double the national average of 2.8 trips per year.

The percentage of top-10% travelers taking 6–11 trips annually increased from 11% in 2022 to 18% in 2025. For the top 1%, this figure rose from 15% to 27%. Per-trip spending has also risen sharply: the top 10% now spend an average of $7,900 per trip (up from $5,100 in 2022), and the top 1% spend $12,400 (up from $8,400). In comparison, the average U.S. traveler spends $3,700 per trip.

Shifting Preferences: Wellness, Cruising, and Luxury Hospitality

The research identifies three main trends driving changes in luxury travel:

• Wellness and Longevity: Interest in health and wellness travel is increasing. Among top-1% travelers, 34% plan a wellness-focused trip in the next year, up from 23% in 2019. For the top 10%, the figure is 21%, compared to 15% in 2019. This reflects a growing focus on longevity science and wellness programs at high-end resorts.

• Cruising: Interest in cruising among the top 1% has grown from 37% in 2019 to 53% in 2025. New ultra-luxury cruise lines, such as Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Four Seasons, are targeting this market with smaller vessels and higher service levels.

• Luxury Hospitality: Hotel development is shifting toward smaller, high-end resorts, often with branded residences and private clubs. Luxury hotels with fewer than 150 rooms continue to attract investment, whereas mid-scale projects face financing challenges. Luxury hotel rates grew by 5.7% in 2025, while mid-scale and economy segments saw little growth.

Changing Destination Preferences

The report notes several geographic shifts in travel preferences among affluent Americans:

• Canada has become the top international destination for wealthy U.S. travelers, surpassing Mexico. Among households in the top 10%, 26% plan to visit Canada in the next 12–18 months; for the top 1%, the figure is 34%. Factors include proximity, safety, and diverse experiences.

• Costa Rica is gaining popularity over the Caribbean, with 18% of top-1% travelers planning to visit in the next 12–24 months. The country’s rise is attributed to new luxury developments and expanded air service.

• The Middle East is attracting younger affluent travelers, with interest among top-1% travelers rising from 6% in 2019 to 13% in 2025. Dubai is a key destination, especially for travelers aged 18–34.

Implications for the Hospitality and Real Estate Sectors

The report outlines five strategic recommendations for destinations, developers, and operators:

1. Focus on affluent demand and understand key markets.

2. Prioritize experiences such as nature, culture, and wellness over traditional amenities.

3. Design offerings for authenticity and resilience.

4. Integrate hotels, residences, and clubs into cohesive platforms. 5. Ensure visibility across digital and AI-driven channels.

According to Resonance Consultancy, understanding the preferences and behaviors of affluent travelers is now essential for growth and resilience in the travel and hospitality industries. The report is based on surveys conducted in August and September 2025 and provides longitudinal insights into the evolving travel habits of wealthy Americans.