Fed survey shows U.S. household finances steady as job-security concerns rise

Nearly three-quarters of U.S. adults said their personal finances were in reasonable shape in 2025, but concerns about job security increased, according to an annual Federal Reserve survey released May 13, 2026. The October 2025 poll of 13,099 respondents found 73% said they were “doing okay financially” or “living comfortably,” unchanged from 2024. But only 26% rated the national economy as “good” or “excellent,” down from 29% in 2024 and far below 50% in 2019. Inflation remained the top concern, cited by more than 90% of respondents, though the share calling it a “major concern” eased. The share reporting behavior changes because of higher prices fell to 77% from 79%. Job-market sentiment weakened: 42% said finding or keeping a job was a minor or major concern, up from 37% in 2024. Separately, 63% said they could cover an unexpected $400 expense with cash, unchanged from the prior year.