Americans spend a significant amount of time on leisure activities and hobbies, ranking second only to sleep according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2023 time use survey. This survey sheds light on how Americans choose to spend their free time and what activities they enjoy the most. While we all love leisure time, not everyone spends it the same way. Some hobbies are far more popular than others, as revealed by a Statista survey of over 60,000 Americans.
Cooking and baking are at the top of America’s favorite hobbies list, with 41% of respondents spending their free time in the kitchen. Cooking enthusiast Tiffany McCauley of The Gracious Pantry explains that cooking is therapeutic for her, providing a creative outlet and a delicious end result that soothes her soul. Reading is another beloved pastime, with 37% of Americans reporting it as a favorite hobby. Reading offers numerous benefits, including stress reduction, mental stimulation, and the opportunity to explore new worlds and ideas.
Spending time with pets is also a popular hobby among Americans, with around 35% of respondents enjoying the companionship of their furry friends. Interacting with animals has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reduced stress levels and increased physical activity. Video games are another favorite pastime, with about one-third of Americans unwinding with their favorite games. Gaming provides an escape from reality and can help build critical life skills like problem-solving and focus.
Outdoor activities are enjoyed by over 30% of survey respondents, with outdoor gatherings, pool visits, and hiking ranking as some of the most popular activities. Shopping is another common hobby, with nearly one-third of Americans spending their free time browsing and buying. While some may argue that shopping isn’t a hobby, for many, it provides a relaxing and enjoyable way to pass the time.
Traveling is a favorite hobby for around 29% of Americans, offering the opportunity to explore new destinations, learn about different cultures, and gain a fresh perspective on the world. Arts, crafts, and DIY activities are enjoyed by approximately 25% of respondents, providing a creative outlet that can be pursued with minimal time, money, or space. Socializing, playing board games, and engaging in activities like gardening, meditation, fitness, photography, and writing are also popular pastimes among Americans.
Engaging in fulfilling hobbies is not only enjoyable but also crucial for health, happiness, and overall well-being. Many of America’s favorite hobbies have well-documented benefits for physical and mental health, including stress reduction, improved cognitive function, and increased social connections. Whether you enjoy cooking, reading, spending time with pets, or any other hobby, there’s no better time than the present to start a new activity and inject more happiness into your life.