With much of the country under orders to stay home amidst the spread of COVID-19, countless Americans have been advised to minimize nonessential trips out of the house. To take the current pulse of how this guideline is impacting individuals, CivicScience asked more than 2,500 U.S. adults how often they’re leaving the house. 

As the data show, not including trips to work, 42% of Americans are leaving the house just once a week. However, on the other end of the spectrum, 19% are leaving four or more times a week.Of those leaving the house, men are heading out more than women.

Concern and Connection to the Virus Lead to Fewer Trips Out 

However, those most concerned about the spread of the virus are the most likely to be staying home.Perhaps not surprisingly, proximity to the virus also matters. Those who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or know someone who has been are more likely to cap their trips out at 1-2 times per week. The fact that those further removed from the virus are going out upwards of three to four times a week suggests that for many, it takes a personal connection for some to change their behavior.  

Staying In, Spending Less, Getting Creative

As the data show, going out less has impacted spending habits. Those leaving the house just once a week are spending less now than they were before.Home-bound Americans are learning and being creative to stay occupied and uplifted.  In fact, the less trips out someone takes the more likely they are to have used, or intend to use, language learning apps. Intent to use was highest among those leaving their house only once a week. As a result, it’s possible that these apps could see an uptick in the coming weeks. With a large percentage of U.S. adults leaving the house just once a week, Americans are looking for ways to stay occupied and uplifted during these challenging times. For many, learning and creativity–specifically through the use of language learning apps–holds a special appeal, as many have plans to expand their knowledge while staying in and staying safe.