Middle-Income Americans Tighten Belts as Costs Outpace Income Growth
Event summary
- 71% of middle-income Americans report income not keeping pace with cost of living (Primerica Q2 2026 survey).
- 66% believe they’re not saving enough for comfortable retirement.
- 46% have cut back on everyday spending, while 35% are avoiding flying for summer travel.
- 60% of employed respondents are considering or already have a second job.
The big picture
Primerica’s survey highlights a growing disconnect between income growth and living costs, forcing middle-income families to prioritize immediate needs over long-term savings. This trend underscores the resilience of consumers but also signals potential risks for retirement security and broader economic stability. With 67% of respondents delaying major purchases, discretionary spending sectors may face prolonged pressure.
What we're watching
- Economic Resilience
- Whether middle-income households can sustain current adjustment strategies amid persistent inflation.
- Retirement Planning
- How the gap between savings and retirement goals evolves as financial pressures mount.
- Financial Guidance Demand
- The pace at which demand for human financial advisors grows versus reliance on digital tools.
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