Three-quarters of American adults say their income is not keeping up with inflation, according to a CBS News poll [1].

The findings highlight a significant gap between wage growth and the cost of living. This disparity suggests that a vast majority of the U.S. population is experiencing a decline in purchasing power, which can lead to reduced consumer spending and increased national economic instability.

The poll, released Feb. 27, 2025, found that 75% [1] of respondents believe their earnings are failing to pace with the rising cost of goods and services. This sentiment reflects a broad trend of economic anxiety across the country.

Respondents cited rising prices as the primary driver of their financial stress. According to the data, participants said that inflation is outpacing their wage growth, a trend that affects relative income levels for most Americans [3].

Political dissatisfaction also surfaced in the survey results. Some respondents said President Trump is not doing enough to lower prices [5]. The poll indicates that the public is looking for more aggressive interventions to stabilize the cost of living.

Analysis of the data suggests that the perceived loss of relative income is not limited to a specific demographic but is a widespread concern [3]. The results underscore a persistent tension between macroeconomic indicators and the daily financial reality of U.S. households.

“Three-quarters of Americans say their income isn’t keeping up with inflation,” the CBS News poll said [1].

“75% of American adults say their income is not keeping up with inflation.”

This data indicates a divergence between official economic growth metrics and the lived experience of the American workforce. When 75% of a population feels their income is stagnant relative to inflation, it suggests that nominal wage increases are being entirely absorbed by price hikes. This trend typically signals a decrease in the standard of living for the middle and lower classes, potentially increasing reliance on credit and creating long-term political pressure for price controls or significant wage mandates.