Fed Survey Finds 48% Of Americans Say Finances Got Worse
Forty-eight percent of Americans told the New York Federal Reserve in May that their finances were worse than a year ago, the highest share since January 2023.[1]
The survey found the net share of households expecting their finances to improve over the next year is at its lowest since October 2022.[1] About 15% of respondents said they believe they could lose their jobs within a year, and job-finding confidence is at its lowest since December 2025.[1]
Wages rose 3.4% year-over-year in May 2026, below April's 3.8% inflation rate, which has eroded real purchasing power. New York Fed data show U.S. credit card delinquencies have climbed to their highest level since 2011, adding pressure to household budgets.
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📌 Key Facts
- In May 2026, 48% of Americans told the New York Fed their finances were worse than a year ago, the highest share since January 2023.
- The net share of households expecting their finances to improve over the next year is at its lowest since October 2022.
- About 15% of respondents said they believe they could lose their jobs within the next year, while job-finding confidence is at its lowest since December 2025.
- Wages rose 3.4% year-over-year in May 2026, below April’s 3.8% inflation rate, implying a drop in real purchasing power.
- New York Fed data show U.S. credit card delinquencies have climbed to their highest level since 2011.
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