The short answer: secondhand shopping is now mainstream. Two major reports released on October 7, 2026 found that 76% of shoppers bought something secondhand in the past year, and eBay’s 2026 Recommerce Report found that 47% now buy secondhand at least monthly, up from 35% in 2025. For thrifters, that means more competition for the best finds and more reasons to shop smarter.
Key takeaways
- 76% of Americans bought secondhand in the past 12 months (The Consumer Collective, October 2026).
- 47% of shoppers buy secondhand monthly, up from 35% a year earlier (eBay 2026 Recommerce Report).
- 70% say secondhand is important for managing their household budget.
- 66% of Gen Z say they buy more secondhand than two years ago.
- More buyers means the best pieces sell faster, so timing and preparation matter more than ever.
What the New Secondhand Reports Found
This week brought two fresh looks at how Americans shop used goods. On October 7, 2026, The Consumer Collective published Second Nature: The State of Secondhand Shopping in America, and the same day eBay released its 2026 Recommerce Report, a survey of more than 10,500 consumers across 10 markets. Both point in the same direction: buying used is no longer a niche habit.
The headline numbers
- 76% of U.S. shoppers bought something secondhand in the past year, and 89% have done so at some point.
- 44% are buying more secondhand than they did two years ago, including 66% of Gen Z.
- 71% have bought used clothing.
- 54% still prefer shopping secondhand in physical stores, compared with 18% who prefer online.
- 34% say secondhand offers better value than new, while only 11% say new is the better deal.
Why budgets are driving the shift
eBay’s data shows 70% of consumers consider secondhand important for managing household budgets, and 36% of U.S. shoppers call it “very important,” higher than the 28% global average. Price pressure on new goods has pushed many families toward thrift stores for clothing, kids’ gear, furniture, and kitchenware. If you are new to this, our 15 thrift store shopping secrets is the best place to start.
What This Means for Thrift Shoppers
More shoppers in the aisles is good news for thrift stores and the planet, but it changes the game for bargain hunters. Here is how to adapt.
1. Shop earlier and more often
When half of shoppers buy used every month, standout pieces do not sit on racks for long. Learn your local store’s restock rhythm and visit on weekday mornings. Our guide to the best days to go thrift shopping breaks down the timing.
2. Expand beyond the big chains
Everyone knows the largest chain stores. Fewer people check church sales, estate sales, and small charity shops. Compare your options in estate sales vs. thrift stores vs. garage sales.
3. Know quality on sight
With more competition, the shoppers who win are the ones who can spot natural fibers, solid construction, and real vintage in seconds. Read how to spot vintage clothing and keep a pocket jeweler loupe on hand to check hallmarks on jewelry and small tags.
4. Consider luxury secondhand
The Consumer Collective found 49% of shoppers already buy luxury secondhand or would consider it, rising to 61% among Gen Z. That means designer pieces move fast. Our guide on finding designer clothes at thrift stores shows where to look.
The Reseller Angle
eBay found 45% of U.S. sellers say resale provides supplemental income, and 25% say it has provided vital support for household income. Rising demand means good inventory sells faster, but sourcing gets tougher. If you are thinking about flipping finds, start with how to make money reselling thrift store finds. A simple digital shipping scale and a thermal label printer pay for themselves quickly once you are listing weekly.
The Environmental Case Keeps Growing
83% of eBay’s respondents agree that recommerce has real environmental benefits. The Council for Textile Recycling estimates the average American throws away more than 70 pounds of clothing and textiles every year. Every secondhand purchase keeps an item in use longer. Learn more in sustainable fashion on a budget.
Gear That Helps You Keep Up
- Foldable reusable tote bags so you can grab finds quickly and carry more.
- A retractable tape measure to confirm furniture and decor fit before you buy.
- A lint roller for a quick check of fabric condition in the store.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Americans buy secondhand in 2026?
According to The Consumer Collective report released October 7, 2026, 76% of U.S. shoppers bought something secondhand in the past 12 months and 89% have done so at some point.
How often do people buy secondhand now?
eBay 2026 Recommerce Report found that 47% of consumers buy secondhand at least monthly, up from 35% in 2025.
Why is secondhand shopping growing?
Budgets are the biggest driver. eBay found 70% of consumers say secondhand is important for managing household budgets, and many shoppers also cite environmental benefits.
Is it harder to find good stuff at thrift stores now?
Competition is higher, so the best items sell faster. Shopping weekday mornings, visiting smaller charity shops, and learning to spot quality quickly all help.
Do more people prefer thrifting in person or online?
In person. The Consumer Collective found 54% prefer physical stores, 18% prefer online, and 28% like both equally.
Sources: The Consumer Collective, “Second Nature: The State of Secondhand Shopping in America,” October 7, 2026; eBay 2026 Recommerce Report, October 7, 2026; Council for Textile Recycling.
