Stingy or frugal? Michiganders don't spend money on entertainment

When I turned 30, I became aware of how often I sit in front of a digital screen, soaking up information and entertainment. I work in front of a screen, have full access to my phone whenever I want, and then go home to play video games and watch TV – all the while staying close to my phone.

I know I'm one of the many millennials in Michigan who contribute to the state's overall cell phone addiction, but at the same time, the cell phone – and the Internet in all its variants – are a source of constant entertainment.

But with that in mind, entertainment in 2024 is what you make of it. Need something to pass the time or something to invest in? How about stepping away from the screen and attending a live performance instead?

The problem is that entertainment is expensive, and many Americans — and Michiganders in particular — do their best to be entertained as cheaply as possible.

RSS.com did a survey asking Americans how much they spend per year on all forms of entertainment. The national average was $8,258. I guess all those subscriptions really add up.

In Michigan, that's probably the case. Michigan residents spend about $2,558 annually on digital entertainment, compared to $2,286 on in-person entertainment.

When you add in Michigan's annual spending of $1,221 on special occasions (such as a trip to Mackinac Island), Michigan residents spend an average of $6,066 on entertainment over the course of a year, the second lowest amount after Utah, which spends just $80 less.

READ MORE: Michigan is officially one of the laziest states in America

To some extent, that's understandable. TikTok and YouTube are free platforms where you can support creators directly if you think it's worth it. Tickets to live events are more expensive than ever, and that's before the bots auction off every ticket and resell them for 200% of face value.

Michigan has a below average cost of living, but also a below average annual income. There is simply not enough for all of our interests to keep us entertained. We have no choice but to pick and choose, which leaves the state no choice but to be frugal and settle for what is quick, easy and cheap.

Celebrity Mural, Detroit