With luxury shops lining Fifth Avenue, an area of sparkling high-rise buildings literally titled “Billionaire’s Row,” and an average latte costing about $8, we’ve known NYC was bougie. But did you know, New York is actually the most bougie state in America?
According to a new study, based on Google data gathered by gold and silver experts SD Bullion, New York ranked number one for having the most expensive taste in the country. The study analyzed 50 keywords related to expensive tastes including brands, products, precious metals.
In opposition, the study also looked at searches for dupes and cheaper alternatives to get a better understanding of which states have the “priciest preferences.”
When investigated side by side, New York showed the most interest in products per capita and designer brands. Google Trends showed that Louis Vuitton was the most popular brand in New York, with traffic resulting from the French luxury designer’s collaboration with Japanese artist, Yayoi Kusama.
Following NYC in expensive taste are the states of California, Hawaii and New Jersey. On the other end of the spectrum, Alaska, North Dakota and Maine ranked as the least bougie states.
The study’s research into each state’s interest in dupes showed that New York was the least interested in discount or copycat products. “New York’s demand for high-end products far outweighs [the] interest in imitation versions,” when the study compared searches for common dupes to the original company or designer.
States with the most interest in dupes are West Virginia, Wyoming, and Kentucky. “Given the current climate, it’s no surprise that young people are showing an interest in cheaper alternatives of popular products, as they want more accessible but still desirable products,” said SD Bullion.
Dupes have become a popular alternative for those lacking the funds to afford luxury items often seen on celebrities. In fact, #dupe on TikTok has generated 4.9 billion views. But for now, New York seems to be choosing the real deal instead.