Recent polls reveal that food costs are a significant concern for many Americans as prices keep climbing and worries about Donald Trump’s tariffs grow.
According to a survey by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, nearly half of respondents consider food expenses a “major” source of stress, while 33% see it as a “minor” worry. Only 14% claim it isn’t stressful, indicating a broad level of anxiety surrounding daily necessities.
Though financial pressures like housing costs and bank account balances also weigh heavily on individuals, younger Americans, in particular, feel the strain more acutely, possibly due to their limited savings and financial resources.
The survey indicates that about four in ten individuals under 45 rely on “buy now, pay later” services for a variety of purchases, including groceries and medical expenses.
Adam Bush, a 19-year-old welder in Portland, New York, exemplifies this trend. He earns less than $50,000 annually, and has found himself increasingly seeking the most affordable food options. “I keep watching prices go up, so I’m looking for the cheapest possible thing,” he shared, mentioning items like Hot Pockets and TV dinners.
Groceries Cause Widespread Stress
Financial stress surrounding food isn’t limited by age; polls show that it’s a common issue for both older and younger individuals. Notably, adults over 60 express less anxiety about housing or savings compared to their younger counterparts but still feel the burden of grocery costs.
Esther Brand, 78, residing in Buckley, Washington, describes food as a “minor” stressor, thanks to assistance from her local food bank. Living on monthly social security and disability benefits, she is primarily focused on covering her essential expenses, including her dog’s care. “I don’t have any savings,” she admits, voicing concern that the situation with food banks could worsen. Her tight budget directs funds mostly to utilities and other necessities.
“Soap, paper towels, toilet paper. I buy gas at Costco, but I haven’t seen a gallon under $3 in a long time,” she noted, adding that her driving is minimal—only about 50 miles a week.
Among those with household incomes under $30,000 a year, 64% regard food costs as a “major” stressor, compared to about 40% of those making over $100,000. Interestingly, even those in higher income brackets still often express concern about grocery prices.
Women and Hispanic Adults Feel Insecure Financially
Housing, savings, and healthcare expenses are other significant concerns. Approximately half of surveyed adults deem housing a “major” source of stress, with many also worried about savings, healthcare costs, and credit card debt.
Some groups report feeling particularly uncertain. Women often express higher stress levels regarding their finances, while Hispanic adults report prominent concerns related to housing and credit card or student loan debts. Roughly two-thirds of Hispanic adults indicate housing costs as a major stressor.
In response to rising prices, some individuals are adjusting their shopping habits. Shandal Lezle, a 43-year-old receptionist in Chattanooga, Tennessee, now shops at discount stores. “It’s an adjustment,” she remarks, acknowledging that the quality isn’t always great.
Many US Adults Utilize “Buy Now, Pay Later” Options
With limited financial flexibility, around 30% of adults in the US employ “buy now, pay later” programs for groceries, entertainment, and medical expenses. In Washington, Brand also turned to this option to cover her pet’s surgery.
Young people are significantly more likely than older generations to use their funds for food or entertainment, although healthcare costs don’t seem to vary much by age.
There is an upward trend of Black and Hispanic individuals opting for “buy now, pay later” services, but lenders have recently reported an increase in customers struggling to repay these loans.
While marketed as a safer alternative to credit cards, this option comes with risks, including a lack of regulatory oversight. Consumer advocates caution that it might lead to financial overextension.
Lesure manages multiple debts, including car loans and medical bills, utilizing these services for other necessities. “It helped me to extend my dollars,” she explained, sharing her experience of having to cover hotel expenses during tough times.
