The economics behind America’s fun shortage

Americans spend over half their leisure time watching TV — and only about 30 minutes a day socializing, according to the American time use survey from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It’s tempting to blame social media or phones for the lack of in-person fun — but another reason might have to do with finances.

The U.S. has lost thousands of nightclubs, golf courses, and other venues — even as its population grows. And not only that, but the price of fun has risen steadily, leaving many Americans without the budget for it. Ben Steverman, a reporter at Bloomberg, is calling it a “fun shortage” — and in the case of Americans, demand is far outrunning supply.

“Marketplace” host Kai Ryssdal spoke with Steverman about his reporting.

Click the audio player above to hear their conversation.