(InvestigateTV) — A night at the movies has made us laugh, jump and cry for generations — but a new survey by LendingTree found that many moviegoers feel today’s ticket prices are soaring to blockbuster heights.
“Almost 80% of moviegoers say that the experience of going to the theater has gotten so expensive that it’s… said Matt Schulz, the chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree.
In the survey, moviegoers estimate they spend about $32 per person on tickets, snacks and drinks — or about $64 dollars for two adults. And it’s not just sticker shock — about half say a trip to the theater isn’t worth the cost.
Now, people are looking for ways to cut corners.
Most say they typically buy concessions at the theater, but more than half admit they sometimes bring their own.
And many movie lovers are opting to watch from the couch instead, saying streaming is the better value.
“And while there’s a streaming subscription that you pay every month or a pay-per-view fee maybe, it’s certainly not going to cost you generally $32 to sit down and watch that movie at your house,” Schulz commented.
For those that love the theater experience, a little planning can keep it more affordable:
Build movie night into personal or household budgets
Go at off-peak times, like matinees
Use loyalty discounts if possible, but don’t spend extra just to earn perks
“There’s been so much written about the growth of streaming and the threat to movie theaters, but the movie theater experience is still really fun,” Schulz shared. “And there’s nothing like being in that theater and just being swept up in a wave of emotion with, you know, a couple 100 of your closest friends, right? And there’s, I think there’s always going to be a space for that.”
While LendingTree found many moviegoers prefer streaming at home, the top draws for those who still choose the theater include the big-screen experience and a chance to get out of the house with friends or family.