ISTANBUL – More than half of Americans believe their financial situation is deteriorating, as concerns over bills, healthcare, and long-term stability continue to rise, a Gallup poll showed Tuesday.
The survey described the country’s 2026 financial outlook as “historically poor,” with 55% of respondents saying they are worse off financially. This is an increase from 53% in 2025 and 47% in 2024.
Gallup said this is the fifth consecutive year that negative financial perceptions have outweighed positive ones. The last comparable period occurred during the 2007–2009 Great Recession, when economic hardship was widespread.
The poll also highlighted widespread financial anxiety. About 62% of Americans are worried about retirement savings, while 60% fear they would be unable to handle major medical expenses. More than half, or 54%, are concerned about investment performance and sustaining their current lifestyle.
Everyday expenses remain a major pressure point. Nearly 50% of respondents worry about routine healthcare costs, 41% about paying monthly bills, and 40% about covering college tuition.
According to Gallup, affordability issues dominate public concerns this year, with inflation, housing, energy, healthcare, transportation, and childcare costs frequently mentioned across responses.
The survey also found that 55% of Americans say rising consumer prices have created financial difficulties, while 13% pointed specifically to higher fuel costs—an increase of 10 percentage points from the previous year.
ia/xf
