From It’s a Wonderful Life to Elf, classic Christmas movies have cemented their place in holiday traditions, with every decade offering its own take on the season. But one film consistently stands out as a quintessential favorite: Home Alone.
The 1990 family comedy, starring Macaulay Culkin as the clever Kevin McCallister, not only smashed box office records in its time but continues to hold a special place in the hearts of viewers across the U.S. According to a recent study by USDish, which analyzed IMDb ratings, box office revenue, and Google Trends data, the John Hughes comedy dominated searches in eight states, making it one of the most Googled Christmas movies of all time alongside It’s a Wonderful Life and White Christmas.
Why Home Alone is a Midwest Favorite
It’s no surprise that Illinois, where Home Alone was filmed, claims the movie as its most Googled Christmas film. Kevin’s adventures in his booby-trapped suburban home in Winnetka, Illinois, evoke a sense of regional pride for Midwestern audiences.
Other states where Home Alone topped Google searches include Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, Rhode Island, and both Dakotas, solidifying its widespread appeal. Weirdly there is no mention of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation or even A Christmas Story, which is set in Cleveland.
And forget about Die Hard.
A 1990s Classic That Transcends Generations
Home Alone epitomizes the golden age of 1990s Christmas movies. Released during a decade that produced other high-grossing, critically acclaimed holiday hits like The Santa Clause and Love Actually, the film set itself apart with its mix of slapstick humor, heartfelt moments, and a memorable John Williams score.
At the time of its release, the comedy earned a staggering $476.7 million worldwide, making it a cultural phenomenon. Today, it remains a staple of holiday movie marathons and family traditions, proving its timelessness.
Christmas Movies by the Numbers
The study also revealed other fascinating trends in holiday films:
- The highest-grossing Christmas movie of all time is The Grinch (2018), which earned $538 million globally.
- While It’s a Wonderful Life leads in nostalgic appeal, being the most Googled Christmas movie in nine states, Home Alone ties with White Christmas for second place, each leading in eight states.
- The 1990s and 2000s marked the “golden age” of Christmas movies, thanks to the enduring popularity of films like Home Alone and Elf.
A Legacy That Endures
More than three decades after its debut, Home Alone continues to inspire new generations of fans. Its blend of humor, clever storytelling, and holiday warmth has made it a cultural touchstone—not just in Illinois, but across the nation.
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