WASHINGTON,DC-As we celebrate Valentine’s Day today, the Department of Commerce’s U.S. Census Bureau released Valentine’s Day-related facts and statistics. Expressing one’s love to another is a celebrated custom on Valentine’s Day. Sweethearts and family members present gifts to one another, such as cards, candy, flowers and other symbols of affection. Today, the U.S. Census Bureau released statistics on businesses that benefit from Valentine’s Day as well as statistics about married couples and the number of dating service establishments.
1,148: Number of U.S. manufacturing establishments that produced chocolate and cocoa products in 2011, employing 35,538 people. California led the nation with 122 of these establishments, followed by Pennsylvania, with 109.
393: The number of dating service establishments nationwide as of 2007. These establishments, which include Internet dating services, employed 3,125 people and pulled in $928 million in revenue.
29.0 and 26.6 years: Median age at first marriage in 2013 for men and women, respectively.
23,394: The estimated number of jewelry stores in the United States in 2011. Jewelry stores offer engagement, wedding and other rings to couples of all ages. In February 2013, these stores sold an estimated $2.8 billion in merchandise.
15,307: The total number of florists’ establishments nationwide in 2011. These businesses employed 66,165 people.
For more Valentine’s Day statistics, please go to the Census Bureau’s Facts for Features: Valentine’s Day 2014
MEDIA RELEASE/UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE