Even the tooth fairy is cutting back. The average price per tooth in America just saw its biggest drop in 27 years
Briefly

The tooth fairy is now paying significantly less, marking a 14% decrease from last year, with American children receiving an average of $5.01 per tooth. This represents the lowest payment recorded in 27 years. The frequency of additional gifts, previously given by the tooth fairy, has also fallen from 21% to 16%. Notably, for the first time since 2000, the S&P index has outperformed the Tooth Fairy Index, indicating significant economic shifts impacting the tradition. Over the last two decades, tooth values have risen over 150% from less than $2 in 2000.
The tooth fairy is paying 14% less than last year, with American children receiving an average of $5.01 per tooth, the lowest tracked amount.
In addition to a lower cash gift, the frequency of additional gifts from the tooth fairy has decreased from 21% to 16% this year.
For the first time since 2000, the S&P index outperformed the Tooth Fairy Index, indicating a notable shift in economic conditions influencing traditions.
Tooth prices have appreciated significantly over the 21st Century, moving from a little less than $2 in 2000 to an average of $5.01 in 2025.
Read at Fortune
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