77% of Low-Income Americans Say Economy Isn’t Working for Them — Operation HOPE, Inc.

Event summary

Operation HOPE’s Q2 2026 survey found 77% of respondents believe the economy isn't working for them.
40% reported being worse off financially than a year ago, while half saw personal debt rise in the past three months.
72% had to choose between essential expenses like food or gas in the last quarter.
Job satisfaction dropped from 50% to 44%, but 82% remain optimistic about career improvements.
17% started a small business this quarter, while 27% considered it but faced barriers.

The big picture

Operation HOPE’s survey highlights the persistent financial strain on low- and moderate-income Americans, with rising costs outpacing wages. The data underscores growing reliance on financial coaching as households navigate economic uncertainty. While optimism about future stability remains high, the gap between current hardship and long-term confidence presents a strategic challenge for both policymakers and financial service providers.

What we're watching

Economic Sentiment: Whether rising costs of essential goods will continue forcing trade-offs between expenses.
Entrepreneurial Activity: The pace at which small business creation accelerates amid financial pressures.
Financial Coaching Impact: How Operation HOPE’s programs influence measurable improvements in credit scores and debt reduction.