Every year since 1984 PNC has been calculating the cost of the items mentioned in the 12 days of Christmas, resulting in a pointless, but highly amusing version of the Consumer Price Index.

This year the purchase price of the 12 items has jumped 3% to $19,507. PNC also calculates what they call the “True Cost of Christmas” which includes all the items purchased by a True Love who repeats all the song’s verses. This year’s “True Cost” is $78,100 (for all 364 items.)

2007’s price increase came from a minimum wage increase for the “Maids-A-Milking,” increased gold prices, and higher demand for food items such as the “Geese-A-Laying.”

“For True Loves planning to serve a Christmas goose – or six – for a holiday meal, this item will be a bit more expensive,” said James Dunigan, managing executive of investments for PNC Wealth Management. “Food prices have increased over the last year, which has not impacted birds like Turtle Doves and Partridges, but has had an impact on birds traditionally served as food, like Geese.”

PNC Christmas Price Index
23rd Annual PNC Christmas Price Index UP 3.1 % [PNC]

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