Americans Holding Onto Memories, Study Finds

A new nationwide survey suggests Americans are holding onto memories more than ever, with photos, handwritten notes and family keepsakes remaining treasured possessions in homes across the country.

Mixbook surveyed more than 2,400 Americans to learn how people preserve their memories and which states are the most sentimental.

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According to the survey, more than one-third of Americans display at least 10 printed photos in their homes, while more than half say they keep handwritten notes and greeting cards from loved ones indefinitely.

The study also found that 84% of respondents capture everyday moments with photos or videos at least once a month. More than half do so every week, and 27% say they document everyday life through photos or videos daily.

The most common reasons people take pictures include major milestones or special occasions (81%), moments with family and friends (80%), everyday moments (67%) and memories involving pets (66%).

Among the most sentimental states in the country, Georgia ranked No. 1, followed by Mississippi, Texas, South Carolina and Indiana.

Researchers say the findings highlight the importance many Americans place on preserving meaningful moments, whether through printed photographs, videos or cherished keepsakes.