More than three in four U.S. adults, 77%, say the cost of living is a significant source of stress, and nearly half, 47%, say they have pulled back from at least one form of social engagement in the past year because of stress, uncertainty, or feeling overwhelmed. The findings come from the 2026 Stress in America survey, released Oct. 22 by the American Psychological Association (APA).
Cost of living was the most commonly cited stressor. Respondents pointed to rent or mortgage payments, groceries and childcare, and 74% also named the future of the nation as a significant source of stress.
