Inflation has been a persistent concern for American consumers over the past few years, affecting everything from groceries to housing. But recent surveys suggest that people may be adapting to higher prices rather than constantly worrying about them. Is inflation still a major financial burden, or have Americans learned to navigate the new economic reality?\

 

Are Consumers Less Concerned About Inflation?

A long-running Gallup poll shows a steep drop in the number of Americans who consider inflation their biggest financial problem. In April 2025, only 29% of consumers listed inflation as their top concern, compared to 41% in April 2024.

Similarly, an Ipsos Consumer Tracker survey found that fewer Americans believe prices are rising. The percentage of consumers who said their household expenses were higher than a year ago dropped from 68% in February to 58% in May.

Why Are Consumers Adapting?

Despite inflation remaining a concern, Americans have continued to spend steadily since 2021. Experts believe several factors contribute to this shift:

• Long-Term Exposure: Inflation has hovered above 2% since February 2021, meaning consumers have had time to adjust.
• Stable Inflation Rates: While inflation was sky-high in 2021 and 2022, it hasn’t exceeded 4% since early 2023. In April 2025, inflation was 2.3%, a relatively normal rate.
• Shifting Financial Priorities: Other financial concerns—such as tariffs, stock market fluctuations, and potential Medicaid cuts—have taken center stage in 2025.

Are Prices Still a Burden?

While some surveys suggest inflation is less of a concern, others indicate that many Americans still struggle with rising costs:

• A CBS News poll found that 76% of Americans believe their income isn’t keeping up with inflation.
• A University of Michigan consumer survey revealed that Americans expect prices to rise by 6.6% over the next year, which is twice the annual inflation rate they predicted a year ago.

Inflation remains a complex issue. While some consumers have adjusted to higher prices, others still feel the financial strain. The key takeaway? Americans are resilient—whether they’re cutting back on spending, finding creative ways to save, or simply accepting the new normal.

As economic conditions continue to evolve, the question remains: Will inflation fade into the background, or will it remain a defining financial challenge for years to come?