Middle-Income Families Adjust to Persistent Cost Pressures as Economic Outlook Stabilizes — Primerica, Inc.

Event summary

Primerica's Q4 2025 U.S. Middle Income Financial Security Monitor™ survey shows 49% of middle-income families aim to keep up with rising costs as their primary financial goal.
59% of respondents expect the U.S. economy to worsen in the next year, a sentiment that has remained steady over the past six months.
69% of households delayed major purchases or expenses in 2025, with car purchases and home repairs being the top categories.
47% of middle-income families prioritize paying down debt, highlighting the impact of elevated credit card balances on household budgets.

The big picture

Primerica's survey highlights a stabilizing but cautious outlook among middle-income families, adjusting to prolonged higher costs. This trend reflects broader economic volatility and persistent inflation pressures, which are reshaping consumer behavior and financial priorities. The data underscores the need for accessible financial guidance as households navigate sustained economic challenges.

What we're watching

Economic Sentiment: Whether middle-income families' cautious outlook will persist as economic indicators improve or deteriorate.
Debt Management: The pace at which elevated credit card debt impacts household budgets and financial goals.
Financial Guidance: How misconceptions about the cost and accessibility of financial advice affect middle-income families' ability to achieve their goals.