More than three-quarters of Americans are concerned about inflation, particularly rising grocery prices. According to a recent national survey by Rasmussen Reports, 78% of American adults express worry about inflation, with 45% being very concerned. Only 17% reported not being worried. The Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that the Consumer Price Index rose by 2.7% in June.
A significant 69% of American adults believe grocery prices are higher now than they were six months ago. In contrast, only 15% think grocery prices have decreased, while 19% believe they have remained the same. Rasmussen Reports updates can be found on Twitter or Facebook. This survey included 1,323 American adults and was conducted from July 8-10, 2024, with a margin of error of +/- 3 percentage points and a 95% confidence level. The fieldwork for all Rasmussen Reports surveys is conducted by Pulse Opinion Research, LLC.
Americans generally view fuel prices more favorably. Thirty-seven percent say gasoline prices are higher than six months ago, while 25% report they are lower, and 31% think they have stayed the same.
When looking at political affiliations, 46% of Democrats, 30% of Republicans, and 35% of those not affiliated with either major party believe the price of gasoline has increased in the past six months. Regarding grocery prices, 76% of Democrats, 46% of Republicans, and 58% of the unaffiliated report that grocery prices are higher now compared to six months ago.
Majorities from all political groups—86% of Democrats, 76% of Republicans, and 72% of the unaffiliated—express some level of concern about inflation. Women are more likely than men to state that grocery and gasoline prices have increased in the last six months.
Younger adults under 30 are less likely than older individuals to be very concerned about inflation, while those in their 40s are the most likely to report that grocery prices have risen. Women under 40 are particularly inclined to say that gasoline prices have increased recently.
Concerns about inflation extend across racial lines, with 81% of whites, 79% of blacks, 74% of Hispanics, and 56% of other minorities being at least somewhat concerned. Black respondents are most likely to say that grocery prices have gone up. Additionally, individuals with children at home are more likely to report increases in grocery and gasoline prices than those without children.
Private sector workers show greater concern about inflation compared to government employees or retirees.
While most Americans do not travel abroad regularly, Europe remains the most preferred destination. Economic confidence has improved, with Rasmussen Reports Economic Index rising to 115.9 this month, more than three points higher than in June. (To see survey question wording, click here.)
