U.S. Consumers Reduce Entertainment Spending Amid War and High Gas Prices

U.S. -Iran war and gas prices at $4 per gallon, according to reports. However, there has been a noticeable pullback in discretionary spending on entertainment and dining, which is affecting local economies.

Data indicates declines in visits to venues such as eatertainment spots and escape rooms.

Sector Visits to eatertainment and escape room venues have declined on a year-over-year basis since mid-February, based on recent data.

The CFO of Dave & Buster's stated on a March 31 earnings call that macro factors including gas prices and consumer sentiment are present, but it is too early to fully assess their impact versus holiday timing changes. The company noted difficulties in evaluating these effects during the spring break period.

A CEO and co-founder of an escape room operator said the company anticipated a year-over-year decrease due to holiday date changes.

Economic Context Mark Johnson, a faculty fellow in investments and portfolio management at Wake Forest University School of Business, described the pullback as typical consumer behavior during rising gas prices.

He noted that discretionary items are often the first to be reduced, while essentials like rent and groceries remain priorities. Johnson highlighted that such spending supports local economic growth and is usually temporary, resuming when prices stabilize. A consumer sentiment survey by Ernst & Young Parthenon found that 27 percent of consumers are reducing discretionary spending.

The Americas retail sector leader at EY Parthenon stated that households are prioritizing essentials like groceries and housing, with pullbacks in areas such as fitness and entertainment. He added that if cost pressures ease, consumer spending is likely to recover gradually.