Pass the Nachos, Not the Bills: Over Half of Fans (55%) Would Rather Spend $350 Hosting a Super Bowl Party Vs. Paying Off Debt

NEW YORK, Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Super Bowl Sunday isn't just about football—it's a nationwide financial event. A new poll from market research firm Savanta reveals that the thrill of the game is worth more than financial responsibility for many Americans. Over half of respondents (55%) say they would rather spend $350 on hosting a Super Bowl party than put that money toward paying off debt.

But the party spending is only the beginning. Betting is also taking center stage, with 1 in 5 Americans (19%)—and 47% of sports bettors—admitting they put more money toward sports betting than retirement savings in 2024. Meanwhile, 6 in 10 sports bettors (59%) plan to wager at least $100 on the Super Bowl, with 29% betting $200 or more.

Beyond the Bank Account: The Other Super Bowl Storylines
While money is a major factor, fans are just as opinionated about who they're cheering for, who should take the halftime stage, and how they feel about the Super Bowl's biggest media story.

• Eagles vs. Chiefs? America is divided, but 47% of fans are cheering for the Eagles, while 37% are rooting for the Chiefs.
• Halftime Show Preferences: Between the two, Kendrick Lamar (35%) beats out Drake (20%). But when adding in a third option, if fans had their way, they'd rather see Taylor Swift (30%) over Lamar (28%) and Drake (14%).
• Kelce and Swift Overload? A majority of fans (54%) feel the Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift relationship has received "too much" media attention.

A Changing Super Bowl Culture?
While beer and betting remain staples of the Super Bowl experience, shifting attitudes about health and wellness are making an impact. Over 1 in 5 Americans (27%) say they are more likely to refrain from using alcohol following the recent Surgeon General's warning on alcohol risks.

Whether it's spending, betting, or debating the biggest headlines, one thing is clear—Super Bowl Sunday is about more than just football. It's a moment that reflects changing consumer habits, evolving entertainment preferences, and the financial risks that fans are willing to take for the love of the game.

About Savanta
Savanta is a data, market research, and advisory company. We inform and inspire our clients through powerful data, empowering technology, and high-impact consulting.

Survey Methodology
The poll conducted by Savanta had a sample size of 1,000 U.S. adults aged 18+ and was conducted from Feb. 3 – 4, 2025.

SOURCE Savanta Group LLC