CBS News poll finds Americans describe “uncertain” economy as its ratings tick slightly back down

As we approach the fall season, the sentiment toward the U.S. economy among Americans remains predominantly negative, with many describing it as “uncertain” and “struggling.” Recent data shows a slight dip in ratings over the past month, indicating ongoing concerns about the state of the economy.

A significant portion of Americans are using words like “rebounding” or “expanding” to characterize the economy, while more than double the number of people view it as “unfair” rather than “fair.” Positive perceptions of the economy have been relatively consistent in the 30s throughout the year, with a slight increase observed towards the end of July.

One of the key factors influencing these views is the issue of prices. A majority of respondents believe that prices are still on the rise, and a similar number anticipate further increases in the near future. These perceptions of price changes are closely linked to individuals’ assessments of their own financial situations, as those who perceive prices to be rising are more likely to view their personal finances negatively.

When it comes to personal financial ratings, the trend continues to show that higher-income individuals tend to have more positive views. Additionally, partisan differences play a role in economic evaluations, with Republicans less likely than Democrats and independents to report price increases in their surroundings.

Looking ahead, a majority of respondents believe that the economy is worsening rather than improving, and approximately a quarter foresee a potential recession on the horizon. These outlooks reflect a sense of caution and uncertainty among the American public regarding the economic landscape.

This data is derived from a CBS News/YouGov survey conducted with a nationally representative sample of 2,344 U.S. adults from August 29 to September 2, 2025. The survey results were weighted to ensure representation across gender, age, race, education, and 2024 presidential vote. The margin of error for this survey is approximately ±2.3 points.

As we navigate through these challenging times, it is essential to stay informed and engaged with economic developments to make well-informed decisions for the future.