Demographic Profile Of A Model Train Hobbyist

Back in 1999/2000 Classic Toy Trains, conducted a survey and according to their survey the “typical” toy train hobbyist is:

*A 52-year-old married man with children.  He enjoys toy trains in his childhood and became involved with them again about 20 years ago.  He shares his interest with at least one relative or friend.

*He is enthusiastic about the hobby.  He reads related books and magazines and may even use his computer to help him enjoy it.  His interest has not diminished in the past year; in fact, it may have grown.

*His major focus is on the Lionel O gauge trains manufactured between 1945 and the present.  He considers himself to be both a collector and an operator of those trains.

*His home layout contains approximately 213 square feet and is either of traditional design or combines traditional and hi-rail elements.

*His anual income is approximately $73,500, and he spends about $1,500 on toy trains and realted merchandise.

Now, I realize this survey is about dated, and I’m willing to guess that the average age has come down a bit, that more women are into the hobby now, and that maybe the income might be a little lower; however, I am sure the interest in the Lionel O gauge trains is still the same!

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