The Cost of Love: Valentine's Day by the Numbers

More than 55 percent of Americans plan to celebrate Valentine's Day this year, according to the National Retail Federation . And with spending projected to top $19.6 billion, spreading the love can get expensive.

Here's a breakdown of what Americans are planning to spend:

$143.5
Amount each U.S. consumer is expected to spend on average this Valentine's Day, up from last year's $136.57.

$4.7 billion
Amount consumers plan to spend on jewelry.

$3.7 billion
Amount expected to be spent for an evening out.

$2 billion
Amount expected to be shelled out for flowers.

$1.9 billion
Amount expected to be spent on new outfits for the holiday.

$1.8 billion
Amount expected to be spent on candy. In fact, candy is one of the most popular purchases - contributing to 55% of all Valentine's Day gifts, up from last year's 49.7%.

23.7 percent
Percentage of Americans who plan to give the gift of a special "experience."

42.3 percent
Percentage of Americans who would love to receive a gift involving an experience.

3 out of every 10 adults
Number of consumers who indicated they are not celebrating Valentine's Day this year, but still have some type of "celebration" plans. This can include anything from treating themselves to something special, purchasing "anti" Valentine's Day gifts or planning a get-together with family/friends. 18-24 year olds are the most likely to "celebrate" with these types of activities

What are some good ways to do something special (but not costly)?

Write a love letter instead of purchasing a card. 500 years ago, handmade paper cards were the gift to receive. Why not make the holiday special by doing what it was always meant to be: telling the people you love how you feel.

Celebrate Valentine's Day early or late. Beat the crowds and pricey restaurants by celebrating Valentine's Day a week early or a week late. If you must celebrate on the day of, consider making a meal at home, but infuse it with some romance by eating in front of the fireplace - picnic style.

Check out Groupon or LivingSocial. With more than 40% of Americans reporting they'd love to receive a gift of experience, consider monitoring Groupon or Living Social in the weeks leading up to Valentine's Day. Often they have steep discounts on things like Segway tours, miniature golf (or even regular golf lessons), and other things couples can do together.