Commentary
Poll: Americans Put 'Life Goals' On Hold Amid Economic Worries
- by Richard Whitman , Columnist, May 19, 2025
A new poll from Stagwell’s Harris Poll and the UK’s Guardian newspaper finds that Americans are feeling the strain of rising costs—thanks in large part to Trump’s tariff war--with financial concerns delaying many “life goals,” like getting married, having a child and buying a home.
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The publication concludes that “the findings are a sign that Trump’s economic agenda could have long-term effects.”
Among the findings:
65% of Americans think the cost of living has worsened since the start of the year.
While 33% of Republicans believe the U.S. economy is worsening, 64% of Independents today believe it is worse, more in line with Democrats (73%).
29% of Americans – including 39% of Democrats, 28% of Independents and 21% of Republicans – say tariffs will do the most economic harm.
78% have noticed higher grocery prices during the last few months.
6 in 10 say the economy has affected/delayed at least one major life goal – especially buying a new home (75%), making a large purchase (66%) and switching jobs (63%).
It appears that among the large purchases being put on hold are cars, if recent ad data is an indication. Automotive national TV ad spending was down nearly 24% in April, according to i.spot.tv.
The poll also found that of those who planned to have a child in 2025, 32% are unable to afford it, and 33% are uncomfortable having a child in the current economy.
