“The high cost of living continues to top Americans’ list of the most important financial problems facing their families. The 31 percent citing it in an open-ended question is below the 41 percent peak in 2024 but similar to a year ago and among the highest in Gallup’s more than 20-year trend. Energy costs, which have risen notably this year, are mentioned by 13 percent of Americans, up 10 percentage points from last year and the highest since 2008 – tying housing costs as the second-biggest concern. Healthcare ranks fourth at 8 percent, consistent with readings since 2020.”
“Americans’ financial outlook in 2026 is also historically poor, with a record 55 percent now saying their financial situation is getting worse. While similar to last year’s 53 percent, this is up from 47 percent in 2024 and marks the fifth consecutive year more Americans say their finances are worsening rather than improving,” says the toplines to a new Gallup survey released Tuesday.