The US recommerce market is experiencing a notable transformation, with 93% of American consumers reporting they purchased a secondhand item within the last year.
The 2025 Recommerce Report, compiled by OfferUp in collaboration with data analytics firm GlobalData, highlights the vast scope of the secondhand economy, which encompasses not just clothing but also furniture, sporting goods, and various other categories.
The findings stem from a survey of 1,500 US adults conducted by Pollfish, focusing on consumer behaviors related to buying and selling in the recommerce space.
While resale is often centered on apparel, clothing only makes up 25% of the overall market in the $200 billion-plus multi-category US recommerce economy.
The study points to a permanent shift in consumer habits, predicting that US recommerce market growth will accelerate by 34% by the end of the decade, reaching an estimated value of $306.5 billion. This growth trajectory indicates that resale will account for 8% of total retail spending, solidifying its significance in the retail landscape.
The increasing popularity of secondhand shopping can be attributed to factors such as affordability, digital convenience, and shifting cultural attitudes. Local transactions also play a significant role, allowing consumers easy access to items within their neighborhoods.
According to the report, participation in the secondhand market is rising, with nearly one in five US consumers (19%) making their first used item purchase this year and 22% selling a used item for the first time.
The report indicates that acceptance of secondhand goods is increasing, as purchasing them becomes easier, more convenient, and socially acceptable. Notably, 70% of Americans indicated that their negative perceptions of secondhand shopping have decreased over the past year.
The changing attitudes are largely driven by a heightened focus on sustainability and reducing waste, along with the trend of sharing secondhand finds with friends and family. Convenience is also a factor, with 49% of participants citing the usability of apps for browsing, buying, and selling items.
In response to economic pressures, 69% of US shoppers are now more inclined to buy or sell secondhand items.
The research highlights that 79% of secondhand shoppers cite cost savings as their primary motivation, actively seeking lower prices as a means to combat inflation and tariffs.
However, saving money isn’t the only attraction. A notable 54% of consumers are interested in the resale market for unique or uncommon items, while 34% prefer to acquire high-quality or luxury brands at discounted prices through secondhand channels.
OfferUp CEO Todd Dunlap remarked, “In 2025, a remarkable 93% of Americans bought something secondhand, and more than half sold an item themselves. Beyond impressive stats, these participation rates signal a lasting shift in how we shop, save, and support our communities. Secondhand is now mainstream.
“People are choosing resale to stretch budgets, shop more sustainably, and make genuine local connections that one-click retail can’t deliver.”
On the selling side, the recommerce sector has emerged as a significant income source for many. The report revealed that 57% of respondents depend on revenue from secondhand sales to cover bills and living expenses.
Meanwhile, 38% use their earnings for personal treats for themselves or family members, while 28% wisely save their proceeds from secondhand sales for future goals or important life events.
Gen Z Driving Recommerce Growth
According to OfferUp’s findings, Gen Z is leading the way in the growth of recommerce.
In the past year, 49% of Gen Z consumers sold a pre-owned item for the first time, illustrating a growing inclination towards sustainable shopping. Additionally, 54% of this demographic favors secondhand options when available, surpassing Millennials, of whom 44% share the same preference.
The resale market is proving financially beneficial for Gen Z, with a third of these young sellers earning between $301 and $500 from their secondhand transactions.
Despite their digital savviness, Gen Z also values the personal touch in resale, with 75% preferring in-person transactions, showing a strong inclination to buy from local sellers rather than national brands.
The report emphasizes the significance of local commerce in strengthening communities, noting that 62% of shoppers choose to buy and sell locally to support their economies and secure better deals.
In conclusion, the US recommerce market growth reflects a shift in consumer attitudes towards sustainability and affordability, positioning secondhand shopping as a viable option for many Americans.
