Explore Community Commerce in United States 2024 Market Research
Abstract
The global social commerce market, which includes community commerce, is experiencing significant growth, driven by increased consumer engagement on social media platforms and the convenience of online shopping. In 2024, the global social commerce market is valued at USD 1,391.42 billion, with projections indicating a rise to USD 1,606.70 billion in 2025 and USD 5,864.44 billion by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.47% from 2025 to 2034. This growth is fueled by factors such as high internet penetration, the adoption of smart devices, and the rising popularity of video-based shopping, particularly in North America, which holds the largest market share.
In the United States, the social commerce market, a key component of community commerce, was valued at USD 89.11 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 29.2% from 2023 to 2030. The B2C segment dominates this market, accounting for 55% of the share in 2023, with a projected CAGR of 29.6% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by increased time spent on social media, the convenience of purchasing through these platforms, and the rising number of active buyers on platforms like Facebook and Reddit. Additionally, the community and individual services market, which overlaps with community commerce, is expected to grow from USD 1,331.91 billion in 2024 to USD 1,420.28 billion in 2025, at a CAGR of 6%.
The expansion of the social commerce market is primarily driven by technological advancements, such as the integration of data connectivity in smart devices, and shifts in consumer behavior toward online shopping. The pandemic further accelerated this trend, as consumers spent more time on social media, prompting businesses to increase their advertising efforts. However, concerns about data privacy and security on social media platforms could pose challenges to sustained growth. Overall, the market is poised for robust growth, driven by consumer demand for convenience and the increasing integration of commerce into social media platforms.
1. Market Size
The global social commerce market, encompassing community commerce, is witnessing exponential growth, with its value reaching USD 1,391.42 billion in 2024. This figure is projected to rise to USD 1,606.70 billion in 2025 and further escalate to USD 5,864.44 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 15.47% during the forecast period. North America, particularly the United States, dominates this market due to high internet penetration, widespread adoption of smart devices, and the increasing popularity of video-based shopping.
In the United States, the social commerce market was valued at USD 89.11 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 29.2% from 2023 to 2030. The B2C segment, which accounted for 55% of the market share in 2023, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 29.6% during the same period. This growth is driven by increased consumer engagement on social media platforms, the convenience of online shopping, and the rising number of active buyers on platforms like Facebook and Reddit.
Additionally, the community and individual services market, which overlaps with community commerce, is expected to grow from USD 1,331.91 billion in 2024 to USD 1,420.28 billion in 2025, at a CAGR of 6%. This growth is fueled by technological advancements, such as the integration of data connectivity in smart devices, and shifts in consumer behavior toward online shopping.
2. Market Segmentation
The US Social Commerce Market is a rapidly evolving sector driven by technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, and the increasing integration of social media into the shopping experience. To understand its dynamics, we analyze the market through key segmentation methods: Business Model, Platform, Product Category, and Target Audience. This analysis provides insights into the market's structure, growth drivers, and potential challenges.
Key Segments
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Business Model: The market is segmented into Direct Sales, Affiliate Marketing, Dropshipping, White Labeling, and Social Selling. In 2023, the B2C (Direct Sales) segment dominated with a 55% market share and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 29.6%. This dominance is attributed to the rise of smart devices and seamless data connectivity.
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Platform: The market is divided into Social Networking Sites, E-commerce Websites, and Messaging Apps. Social Networking Sites, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, held the largest market share in 2023 due to their ability to integrate social interactions with shopping.
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Product Category: Segments include Fashion and Accessories, Electronics, Home and Garden, Beauty and Personal Care, and Food and Beverages. Fashion and Accessories accounted for over 35% of the market revenue in 2023.
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Target Audience: The market caters to Gen Z and Millennials, Gen X and Baby Boomers, Influencers and Content Creators, Small and Medium Businesses, and Online Shoppers. Gen Z and Millennials are the primary drivers due to their high engagement with social media platforms.
Segment Comparison
Segment | Characteristics | Market Size (2023) | Growth Potential | Key Challenges |
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Business Model | Dominated by B2C (Direct Sales); driven by smart devices and data connectivity | 55% market share | High (CAGR 29.6%) | Intense competition, need for seamless integration |
Platform | Social Networking Sites lead; integration of social interactions and shopping | Largest share | Moderate to High | Privacy concerns, platform dependency |
Product Category | Fashion and Accessories dominate; high consumer demand for trendy products | Over 35% revenue | High | Seasonal trends, inventory management |
Target Audience | Gen Z and Millennials are primary users; high social media engagement | N/A | High | Changing preferences, need for personalized experiences |
Analysis of Each Segment
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Business Model:
- Potential: The B2C segment's rapid growth is fueled by technological advancements and the increasing adoption of smart devices. Direct Sales, in particular, benefits from the ability to offer personalized shopping experiences and real-time customer engagement.
- Challenges: The segment faces intense competition, requiring businesses to innovate continuously. Additionally, integrating data across platforms remains a technical challenge.
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Platform:
- Potential: Social Networking Sites like Facebook and Instagram are ideal for social commerce due to their massive user bases and integrated shopping features. These platforms enable brands to build communities and drive impulse purchases.
- Challenges: Privacy concerns and data security issues could hinder growth. Moreover, reliance on specific platforms may pose risks if user preferences shift.
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Product Category:
- Potential: The Fashion and Accessories segment thrives due to the visual nature of social media, which aligns well with showcasing trendy products. The rise of influencer marketing further boosts this segment.
- Challenges: Seasonal trends and inventory management are critical issues. Brands must also navigate the fast-changing preferences of younger consumers.
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Target Audience:
- Potential: Gen Z and Millennials are highly engaged with social commerce, making them a lucrative target. Their preference for personalized and interactive shopping experiences drives innovation in the market.
- Challenges: Catering to diverse preferences within this group requires continuous adaptation. Additionally, building trust and ensuring data security are essential to retain this audience.
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3. Players
The US Community Commerce market is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging innovators. Below are the top 10 key players in the industry, along with their strengths and weaknesses:
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Facebook (Meta)
- Strengths: Extensive user base, advanced advertising tools, and seamless integration of shopping features.
- Weaknesses: Privacy concerns and declining trust among younger demographics.
- Market Position: Dominates social commerce with its Marketplace and Instagram Shopping features.
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Instagram (Meta)
- Strengths: Visual-centric platform ideal for product discovery, strong influencer partnerships.
- Weaknesses: Limited shopping features compared to dedicated e-commerce platforms.
- Market Position: A key driver of impulse purchases and brand engagement.
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TikTok
- Strengths: High user engagement, viral content potential, and innovative live-streaming shopping.
- Weaknesses: Regulatory scrutiny and data privacy concerns.
- Market Position: Rapidly growing as a platform for Gen Z-focused social commerce.
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Amazon
- Strengths: Robust logistics network, trusted brand, and integration of social shopping features.
- Weaknesses: Limited community-building capabilities compared to social media platforms.
- Market Position: Leveraging its e-commerce dominance to innovate in social commerce.
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Etsy
- Strengths: Niche focus on handmade and vintage items, strong community engagement.
- Weaknesses: Limited scalability for mainstream products.
- Market Position: A leader in community-driven commerce for unique products.
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Pinterest
- Strengths: Visual discovery platform with high intent-to-purchase rates.
- Weaknesses: Smaller user base compared to Facebook and Instagram.
- Market Position: Focused on inspiration-driven shopping experiences.
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Shopify
- Strengths: Empowers small businesses with easy-to-use e-commerce tools.
- Weaknesses: Reliant on third-party platforms for traffic.
- Market Position: A key enabler of social commerce for independent sellers.
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Temu
- Strengths: Aggressive pricing strategy and rapid market entry.
- Weaknesses: Limited brand recognition and trust in the US.
- Market Position: A disruptor in the low-cost e-commerce segment.
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Shein
- Strengths: Fast fashion leader with strong social media presence.
- Weaknesses: Ethical concerns and sustainability issues.
- Market Position: Popular among younger consumers for affordable fashion.
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CVS Health Corporation
- Strengths: Strong community health initiatives and trusted brand.
- Weaknesses: Limited focus on traditional social commerce.
- Market Position: Innovating in community-driven services and health equity.
Market Share
While specific market share data for the US Community Commerce market is not explicitly provided, we can infer that Meta (Facebook and Instagram) holds a dominant position due to its extensive user base and integrated shopping features. TikTok and Amazon are emerging as strong contenders, particularly among younger demographics. Etsy and Shopify cater to niche markets, while Temu and Shein are rapidly gaining traction in the low-cost segment.
Players Comparison
Player | Key Features | Technological Advantages | Market Positioning |
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Facebook (Meta) | Marketplace, Instagram Shopping | Advanced advertising tools | Dominant in social commerce |
TikTok | Live-streaming shopping, viral content | High user engagement | Popular among Gen Z |
Amazon | Consult-a-Friend, Create features | Robust logistics network | E-commerce leader innovating in social commerce |
Etsy | Handmade and vintage items | Strong community engagement | Niche market leader |
Shopify | E-commerce tools for small businesses | Easy-to-use platform | Enabler of independent sellers |
Temu | Aggressive pricing | Rapid market entry | Low-cost e-commerce disruptor |
Shein | Fast fashion, social media presence | Strong influencer partnerships | Popular among younger consumers |
CVS Health | Community health initiatives | Trusted brand | Innovator in community-driven services |
Analysis
The competitive landscape of the US Community Commerce market is shaped by the convergence of social media and e-commerce. Meta (Facebook and Instagram) remains a dominant force, leveraging its vast user base and advanced advertising tools. However, emerging platforms like TikTok are rapidly gaining ground, particularly among younger consumers, through innovative features like live-streaming shopping. Amazon is also making significant strides by integrating social shopping features into its platform, further blurring the lines between traditional e-commerce and social commerce.
Niche players like Etsy and Shopify continue to thrive by catering to specific segments of the market, while disruptors like Temu and Shein are challenging established players with aggressive pricing and rapid market entry strategies. Additionally, companies like CVS Health are innovating in community-driven services, highlighting the broader potential of community commerce beyond traditional retail.
We speculate that the market will continue to evolve as platforms enhance their social commerce capabilities, driven by consumer demand for seamless and engaging shopping experiences. However, challenges such as data privacy concerns and regulatory scrutiny may hinder growth, particularly for platforms like TikTok and Facebook. Brands that can navigate these challenges while leveraging the strengths of social commerce will be well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market.
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4. Trends
The US social commerce market is experiencing rapid evolution, driven by technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviors. One of the most significant trends is the seamless integration of shopping features into social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. These platforms now offer in-app purchasing options, enabling users to make impulse buys directly from their feeds. This integration not only enhances convenience but also broadens the market reach for brands. Another emerging trend is the rise of social shopping communities, where users connect with like-minded individuals and make purchases based on recommendations and shared interests. These communities foster trust and engagement, driving higher conversion rates.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are also playing a pivotal role in personalizing the shopping experience. By analyzing user data, these technologies enable platforms to offer tailored product recommendations, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, live-streaming shopping and video-based commerce are gaining traction, providing interactive and immersive shopping experiences that resonate with younger demographics.
However, the market faces challenges, including concerns about data privacy and security. As consumers become more aware of these issues, brands must prioritize transparency and build trust to sustain growth. Overall, the trends in the US social commerce market highlight the increasing convergence of social media and e-commerce, presenting both opportunities and challenges for businesses.
5. Demographics
The US social commerce market is heavily influenced by its demographic composition, with younger generations driving adoption and growth. Millennials and Gen Z, aged 18-34, are the primary users of social commerce platforms. These demographics are highly active on social media and are more likely to engage in online shopping through platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Their familiarity with digital technologies and preference for seamless, integrated shopping experiences make them ideal targets for social commerce initiatives.
Middle-income earners also play a significant role in the market, as they value convenience and personalized shopping experiences. This demographic is more likely to make purchases based on recommendations from influencers and peers, highlighting the importance of community-driven commerce. Additionally, the increasing awareness of social issues among consumers has led to a preference for brands that align with their values, particularly in areas like sustainability and social responsibility.
While younger consumers dominate the market, older demographics, such as Gen X and Baby Boomers, are gradually adopting social commerce. However, their slower adoption rate underscores the need for brands to tailor their strategies to different age groups. Overall, the demographic profile of the US social commerce market reflects a diverse and dynamic consumer base, offering opportunities for brands to engage with various segments effectively.
6. Buying Behavior
Consumer purchasing behavior in the US social commerce market is shaped by the integration of social media and e-commerce platforms. The decision-making process often begins with product discovery through social media posts, live-streaming events, or recommendations from influencers and peers. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok streamline the shopping experience, enabling users to browse, engage with content, and make quick purchasing decisions. This immediacy and convenience are key drivers of impulse buys, particularly among younger consumers.
Convenience and accessibility are paramount in social commerce, as platforms allow users to shop directly from their feeds without navigating to external websites. Personalized marketing and storytelling further enhance brand loyalty, while real-time customer service increases satisfaction. Product exclusivity and price advantages also play a significant role in attracting consumers, as they seek unique deals and discounts.
Behavioral patterns indicate that nearly half of US consumers have made purchases via social media, with live-streaming shopping and video-based commerce gaining popularity. Social shopping communities, where users connect with like-minded individuals and make purchases based on recommendations, are also on the rise. However, concerns about data privacy and security remain a barrier, as consumers become more cautious about sharing personal information.
Overall, the buying behavior in the US social commerce market reflects a shift toward more interactive and engaging shopping experiences. Brands that address consumer concerns and adapt to these trends will be well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market.
7. Regulatory Environment
The regulatory environment for the US community commerce market is shaped by several key regulations, particularly those focused on data protection and consumer privacy. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is a significant regulation that enhances consumer control over personal data collected by businesses. This act sets a precedent for other states and industries, requiring businesses to ensure transparency and accountability in their data practices. Additionally, stringent data security requirements in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government further influence the regulatory landscape.
These regulations have a profound impact on market entry and competition. Compliance with laws like the CCPA can increase operational costs and complexity, potentially creating barriers for smaller entrants. However, they also enhance consumer protection by ensuring transparency and control over personal data, fostering trust in the market. The need for compliance drives innovation in secure community cloud solutions, which businesses can leverage to meet regulatory requirements.
The regulatory environment presents both risks and opportunities. The primary risk lies in the complexity and cost of compliance, which can strain resources, especially for smaller businesses. Frequent changes to platform algorithms and the open nature of social media also expose businesses to misinformation and scams, potentially harming brand image. On the other hand, the emphasis on data privacy and security opens opportunities for businesses that can innovate and offer compliant solutions.
Overall, the regulatory framework shapes a competitive yet secure market environment, balancing risks with opportunities for sustainable growth. Businesses that navigate these challenges effectively will be well-positioned to thrive in the US community commerce market.
8. Economic factors
The U.S. social commerce market is experiencing robust growth, with a valuation of USD 89.11 billion in 2022 and a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 29.2% from 2023 to 20302. This expansion is driven by increased social media usage during the COVID-19 pandemic, which accelerated the adoption of online shopping. The convenience of social commerce, combined with the integration of social shopping features by major platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, has further fueled this growth1. Additionally, e-commerce giants such as Amazon have introduced community-based shopping features like 'Consult-a-Friend' and 'Create,' which resonate with younger demographics and enhance the shopping experience5.
Regionally, the U.S. social commerce market is growing at a slower pace compared to other regions, but nearly half of U.S. consumers have made purchases via social media, indicating its lasting potential3. The increasing awareness of social issues among consumers is also shaping the market. A majority of Americans believe companies must address social justice matters, with 59% stating that silence is perceived as indifference4. This trend is likely to drive the adoption of social commerce as a means to connect with communities and raise social awareness.
Economic factors such as the surge in social media usage and the demand for personalized shopping experiences are driving technological advancements in the U.S. social commerce market. Features like real-time customer service and product exclusivity are becoming standard, enhancing consumer trust and satisfaction1. These innovations are crucial for brands to stay competitive and meet evolving consumer demands3. Overall, the economic landscape is favorable for the continued growth of social commerce, with consumer behavior and technological advancements playing pivotal roles.
9. Technical factors
The U.S. social commerce market is heavily influenced by technological advancements, particularly the integration of social shopping features on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. These platforms have streamlined the shopping experience, enabling impulse purchases and broadening market reach1. Additionally, e-commerce giants like Amazon are enhancing their platforms with features such as 'Consult-a-Friend' and 'Create,' which resonate with younger demographics who rely on social avenues for product discovery and transactions5. This integration of community-based shopping experiences is a significant technological trend shaping the market.
The competition in the U.S. social commerce market is driven by the adoption of innovative technologies by major players. Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok dominate with their seamless shopping integrations, while Amazon leverages advanced features to enhance user engagement. For example, Instagram's in-app shopping offers high visual appeal and influencer-driven purchases, while Facebook's Marketplace benefits from its broad user base and community-driven sales1. TikTok's live shopping feature provides real-time engagement and viral product discovery, making it a popular choice among younger consumers5.
Technological advancements have fundamentally altered the market structure by enabling direct brand-consumer connections, which improve personalized marketing and storytelling1. This has led to increased customer loyalty and satisfaction, as real-time customer service on these platforms enhances the shopping experience. Moreover, the accessible nature of social commerce has empowered micro-entrepreneurs, promoting economic diversity1. Consumers are increasingly drawn to social commerce due to its convenience and the ability to discover products through trusted social networks.
10. Consumer feedback
Consumer feedback in the U.S. social commerce market reveals a mix of enthusiasm and hesitation. Nearly half of consumers have made purchases via social media, indicating growing acceptance of this shopping method3. Positive feedback highlights the convenience and engagement offered by platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, which streamline shopping and encourage impulse buys1. Additionally, direct brand-consumer connections on social media enhance personalized marketing and community building, fostering loyalty1.
However, negative feedback centers on concerns about data privacy, security, and the unfamiliarity of the shopping process3. Consumers also express hesitations about misinformation and scams on open platforms1. These issues highlight the need for brands to build trust and simplify the shopping experience. For example, while Instagram and Facebook are praised for their seamless shopping integrations, some users find the process unfamiliar and are wary of sharing personal information1.
To address consumer concerns, brands should focus on transparency and security, clearly communicating data usage policies and ensuring secure transactions1. Additionally, simplifying the shopping process through clear instructions and tutorials can help mitigate hesitations3. Responsible platform design, including measures to reduce misinformation and scams, is also essential to build consumer trust1. By addressing these issues, brands can better capitalize on the growing interest in social commerce and strengthen their market position.