Financial Stress Reaches Record Highs as Inflation and Tariffs Squeeze U.S. Households

A new survey reveals 73% of Americans are financially stressed, with rising costs and tariff policies driving widespread spending cutbacks.

A CNBC/SurveyMonkey poll conducted in early April 2025 found that 73% of Americans report being financially stressed, with 38% describing themselves as very stressed.
Inflation remains the top financial stressor, cited by 86% of respondents, while 66% blamed tariff policies for exacerbating their financial strain.
High-income earners are not immune, with 29% of those earning $100,000 or more also reporting high levels of financial stress.
Consumer spending patterns have shifted significantly, with 78% of Americans cutting back on at least one category, including essentials like food and housing for 45% of respondents.
The majority of Americans (72%) expressed concerns about the personal financial impact of President Trump's tariff policies, with over half opposing these measures outright.