N※N

Poll Reveals Widespread Anxiety About US Economy

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. reveals-widespread-anxiety-about-us-economy.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 22:37 GMT by deseret
      Locales: Utah, N/A, UNITED STATES

SALT LAKE CITY - A newly released Deseret News-Hinckley Institute poll paints a concerning picture of the American psyche, revealing widespread anxiety about the nation's economic future despite recent improvements in inflation metrics. The survey of 501 adults across the United States demonstrates that a substantial 68% of Americans are currently anxious about the state of the U.S. economy, a sentiment that persists even as headline inflation figures begin to moderate.

While economists point to slowing price increases, the perceived impact on everyday life - and anxieties about potential future downturns - haven't translated into feelings of relief for many Americans. "The inflation numbers are coming down, but people aren't necessarily feeling it," explained Jason Perry, a political science professor at the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. "They are still feeling the pain and worry about the future." This disconnect between macroeconomic indicators and lived experience highlights a critical challenge for policymakers seeking to restore public confidence.

The poll delves into specific areas of economic pressure, revealing that concerns are particularly acute regarding essential needs. A staggering 73% of Americans expressed worry over the rising cost of groceries, a staple expense that directly impacts household budgets. Similarly, 69% are concerned about the escalating cost of housing - whether renting or owning - making it increasingly difficult for families to secure stable and affordable shelter. These figures underscore the growing affordability crisis facing millions of Americans, with basic necessities becoming increasingly out of reach.

Beyond immediate expenses, the poll reveals significant anxieties about long-term financial security. Job security is a concern for 59% of respondents, suggesting a widespread fear of potential layoffs or economic instability. This concern is likely fueled by recent industry-specific layoffs in sectors like technology and increasing chatter of a potential recession. Looking further ahead, 62% are worried about their ability to adequately prepare for retirement, highlighting the challenges facing a generation grappling with insufficient savings, rising healthcare costs, and the erosion of traditional pension plans.

Perhaps the most pressing concern, however, lies with healthcare expenses. A remarkable 76% of Americans expressed anxiety over the cost of healthcare, a perennial issue that continues to weigh heavily on the minds of citizens. The complexities of the American healthcare system, coupled with soaring premiums, deductibles, and prescription drug costs, contribute to this pervasive worry. This high level of concern suggests that healthcare affordability remains a significant barrier to economic well-being and potentially hinders access to necessary medical care.

The poll also identified demographic trends in anxiety levels. Young adults, aged 18-34, demonstrated a disproportionately high level of financial anxiety. Professor Perry explained this finding by noting, "They haven't experienced the economic stability that older generations have, so they are understandably concerned." This generation, burdened with student loan debt and entering a volatile job market, faces unique economic challenges that contribute to their heightened anxiety.

Furthermore, lower-income households reported higher levels of anxiety than their wealthier counterparts. This is unsurprising, as these households are more vulnerable to economic shocks and have fewer financial resources to cushion the impact of rising costs. Interestingly, the poll also found that individuals identifying as Democrats were more likely to express economic anxiety, potentially reflecting differing perspectives on the current state of the economy and the effectiveness of government policies.

The overall findings of the Deseret News-Hinckley Institute poll signal a troubling trend: despite some positive economic signals, a significant portion of the American population remains deeply worried about their financial future. This persistent anxiety has implications beyond individual well-being, potentially impacting consumer spending, investment decisions, and even political outcomes. Addressing these anxieties will require a multi-faceted approach that tackles the root causes of economic insecurity and restores public trust in the nation's economic trajectory.