Middle-Income Americans Defer Major Expenses as Cost Pressures Persist
Event summary
- 65% of middle-income Americans report their income is falling behind the cost of living, a figure stable since 2023.
- 66% of respondents feel behind where they thought they would be financially at this stage of life.
- Nearly two-thirds (65%) of households delayed a major purchase or expense in the past year.
- More than half (56%) are currently paying down credit card debt, with the same share carrying a balance monthly.
The big picture
Primerica's Q1 2026 Financial Security Monitor™ survey highlights the long-term financial challenges faced by middle-income Americans due to persistent cost pressures. The data underscores a shift from short-term budgeting to longer-term deferral of critical needs, which could impact overall financial stability and quality of life. With 5.5 million lives insured and 3.1 million client investment accounts as of December 2025, Primerica's findings provide valuable insights into the financial behaviors of its core customer base.
What we're watching
- Economic Sentiment
- Whether the declining share of respondents expecting the economy to worsen will translate into increased consumer confidence and spending.
- Debt Management
- The pace at which middle-income households can reduce credit card debt amid persistent cost pressures.
- Financial Planning
- How tax refunds will be utilized, with 38% planning to pay down debt and 32% aiming to build savings.