Vast majority of US adults stressed about grocery costs, new poll finds
By LILA JONES and AVERY SMITH, Staff Writers
NEW YORK (AP) — A recent survey conducted by the Associated Press reveals that the majority of American adults are feeling stressed about the increasing cost of groceries. This anxiety continues to grow as prices rise and concerns about the impact of President Donald Trump’s tariffs remain prevalent.
According to the poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, approximately half of Americans consider the cost of groceries a significant source of stress in their lives, with 33% viewing it as a minor stressor. Only 14% of respondents stated that groceries did not contribute to their stress levels, indicating the widespread concern about the affordability of essential items.
Financial stressors such as housing costs and insufficient savings also weigh heavily on Americans, especially younger individuals who may not have substantial savings or own property. The survey found that a significant portion of Americans under the age of 45 have resorted to using “buy now, pay later” services for various expenses.
Adam Bush, a 19-year-old welder from Portland, New York, shared his experience of using pay-later services for groceries and entertainment due to the rising prices. “I just keep watching the prices go up, so I’m looking for the cheapest possible stuff,” he said.
Widespread Concern About Grocery Costs
Grocery expenses are a major financial stressor for Americans of all ages, according to the poll. Even older adults, who may be less worried about other financial issues, share the same level of concern about the cost of groceries.
Esther Bland, a 78-year-old resident of Buckley, Washington, relies on food banks to alleviate some of the stress caused by grocery expenses. Bland, who depends on Social Security and disability payments, stated, “I have no savings. If I lost access to food banks, groceries would absolutely be a major source of stress.”
The poll revealed that lower-income Americans, earning less than $30,000 per year, are significantly more stressed about grocery costs compared to higher-income individuals. However, even among those with higher incomes, concerns about grocery expenses persist.
Increased Financial Anxiety Among Women and Hispanic Adults
Housing costs, savings, income, and healthcare expenses are major sources of worry for many Americans. Women and Hispanic adults, in particular, express higher levels of stress about their financial situation, including income, savings, and healthcare costs.
Some individuals have started making lifestyle changes to cope with the rising costs. Shandal LeSure, a 43-year-old receptionist from Chattanooga, Tennessee, shared that she now shops at more affordable grocery stores, despite potential compromises in quality.
Rise in ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ Services
About 3 in 10 U.S. adults have turned to “buy now, pay later” services for various expenses, including groceries, entertainment, and medical care. Younger Americans are more likely to utilize these services, while Black and Hispanic individuals also show a higher adoption rate.
However, there are concerns about the increasing number of individuals struggling to repay these loans, as well as the potential financial risks associated with pay-later plans.
The findings from the AP-NORC poll shed light on the pervasive financial anxiety experienced by Americans across different age groups and income levels. As the cost of living continues to rise, many individuals are seeking alternative financial solutions to manage their expenses.
Smith reported from Washington.
The Associated Press receives support from the Charles Schwab Foundation for educational and explanatory reporting to improve financial literacy. The independent foundation is separate from Charles Schwab and Co. Inc. The AP is solely responsible for its journalism.
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