Title: Young Adults Turn to Facebook Marketplace for Affordable Secondhand Finds
In December, Ellicia Chiu and Cher Su made the move from Los Angeles to New York City with just a few boxes in tow. As they settled into their new walk-up apartment in the Lower East Side neighborhood, they realized they needed to furnish their space with small kitchen appliances, décor, and furniture. Instead of splurging on new items, they turned to Facebook Marketplace for affordable secondhand finds.
Ms. Chiu, 24, shared that she primarily uses Facebook for Marketplace, as it offers deals on items that she wouldn’t normally be able to afford. For many young adults in their 20s, Marketplace has become a go-to platform to find quality items at a fraction of the retail price.
According to a 2022 survey by Statista, Facebook Marketplace is the second most popular online site for secondhand goods, behind eBay. With over a billion monthly active users, the platform has gained popularity among environmentally conscious consumers and those looking to save money in the face of rising inflation.
Users like Ms. Chiu and Ms. Su have scored great deals on items like a West Elm couch, Zojirushi rice cooker, Dyson vacuum, and IKEA NORDEN table, saving thousands of dollars in the process. While not all purchases have been successes, the convenience and affordability of Marketplace keep them coming back for more.
Other young adults, like Sebastian Ramos and Sarah Williams, have also found success on Marketplace, whether it’s scoring a free couch or finding a discounted crib for their new baby. The platform not only offers financial savings but also fosters personal connections and networking opportunities.
As young adults continue to prioritize sustainability and budget-friendly shopping, Facebook Marketplace remains a valuable resource for finding hidden gems and building a sense of community through online transactions.