2026 Cost of Living Survey

With 37% of US consumers citing rising prices as their #1 concern in 2026, the cost of living crisis is reshaping where people live, what they buy, and how they plan for the future. Share your experience.

How has your overall cost of living changed in 2026 compared to 2025?

Significantly higher — major impact on lifestyle

Moderately higher — noticeable but manageable

About the same

Lower — I've found ways to reduce costs

Which living costs have increased most for you in 2026?

Rent or mortgage

Groceries and food

Health insurance or medical costs

Transportation and fuel

Utilities (electricity, gas, internet)

Childcare or education costs

How has the cost of living affected your housing situation?

Forced to move to a more affordable area

Unable to afford buying a home I planned to purchase

Considering moving but haven't yet

No impact on my housing

What spending have you cut back on due to rising costs?

Dining out and restaurants

Travel and vacations

Clothing and fashion

Entertainment and subscriptions

Non-essential shopping

Savings and investments

Nothing — no cutbacks needed

Are you working additional jobs or gigs to offset rising costs?

Yes — added a second job or side gig

Seriously considering it

No — not necessary

No — already at capacity workwise

How financially stressed do you feel about the cost of living right now?

How long do you expect the current cost of living pressure to last?

Will ease significantly in the next 6 months

Will ease gradually over 1–2 years

Will remain elevated for several years

Don't see it improving

What is your household size?

Single / living alone

Two adults, no children

Family with 1–2 children

Family with 3+ children

What is your primary city/metro size?

Major metro (1M+ population)

Mid-size city (200k–1M)

Small town / rural area

What's your most effective strategy for managing the rising cost of living?

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