CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - A new poll released by the Mass. Opportunity Alliance shows that three-fourths of Massachusetts residents are feeling financial pressures this holiday season, largely due to the high cost of living. 22News spoke to residents to find out how they navigate this financial strain. "Inflation is really bad so... Everything is super expensive. It's rough," expressed Amherst Resident, Max Menard. While the holidays are about giving and spending time with loved ones, the costs of buying gifts, traveling, and preparing meals add up quickly. "I've spent probably upwards of $1,500 on gifts this year, so...," said Menard. Kate Goldstein and Cassidy Harkins who traveled up from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, tell 22News that being able to stay with family helps to make the burden a bit lighter, "We're lucky enough to be able to stay with her parents when we come up here, but that's also hard if you have to factor in a hotel." According to the survey, 76% of residents feel at least moderate financial pressures due to holiday expenses, which includes gifts, travel, and meals. Beyond that, nearly a third of residents described their stress as high or extreme. These concerns are clearly affecting holiday habits, as 36% of respondents said they plan to spend less on gifts compared to last year. If you're feeling this financial strain, however, there are still ways to give that won't necessarily break the bank. Matthew Sweet of Monson says that trying to find a perfect gift that shows thought and love, but might not as expensive is a good way to reduce some of that strain, "Going out of your way to get something that's meaningful, that won't actually have a huge burden on your pocket." Or you can always make something. Handmade gifts show care and that you put your own time into the project. "Handmade gifts. That goes a long way. People always appreciate handmade gifts," expressed Sweet and Menard. And if you're not hosting this year, ask your host what you can do to help ease any burdens that come with providing a holiday meal. Even though you might still feel stressed, Kate Goldstein and Cassidy Harkins remind us, "We'll all get through it together. Happy holidays!" Find 22News on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram; send your news tips to [email protected].