Less Than Half of Americans Say They're Better Off Than Their Parents, TruStage Finds
By CU Today Staff —
MADISON, Wis.—Fewer than half of Americans believe they are better off financially than their parents, according to the TruStage 2026 What Matters Now Study, which found growing concerns about the cost of living, retirement security and the changing nature of the American Dream.
Based on a survey of more than 8,800 U.S. consumers conducted with Ipsos, the study found perceptions of opportunity and financial success are increasingly divided across generations, racial groups and personal identities, while middle-market households report feeling squeezed by mounting financial pressures.
“Behind these findings are real people doing everything they can to build a good life for themselves, their families and their future. And for many, it still doesn’t feel like enough,” said Terrance Williams, President and CEO of TruStage. “We believe financial service providers must understand that reality with empathy, design solutions that are simple and affordable, and ultimately help people protect what matters most.”
The American Dream Is No Longer One Dream
The study asked respondents to choose from 22 options that reflect how they define the American Dream. Priorities dramatically differ by age, income, and race:
Neurodivergent Americans Are Carrying the Heaviest Financial Worry Load
One of the study's most significant findings centers on the 21% of consumers who identify as neurodivergent. This population is overwhelmingly young (75% are Gen Z or Millennials), diverse (highest among multiracial respondents at 40% and non-binary respondents at 39%), and intersectional.
Neurodivergent consumers report higher financial worry across virtually every category measured despite similar income and higher employment rates compared to their neurotypical peers. For example, 34% responded feeling anxious about their financial situation compared to just 22% of neurotypical peers, and nearly half (46%) are worried about job loss, compared to 34% of peers. However, they’re also more entrepreneurial with 30% owning a business, which is nearly double the rate of their neurotypical peers. The research shows these individuals are more likely to have less satisfaction and trust than neurotypical peers.
The Hustle Economy Is No Longer Optional
Nearly half of Americans (46%, up from 39% in 2022) agree that "these days salary isn't enough, you have to hustle to make money in different ways." The sentiment is even stronger among Black consumers (58%), women (50%), Millennials (52%), and BIPOC consumers overall (50%). BIPOC and Millennial consumers are also the most likely to say they would rely on a side hustle or secondary job if their primary income were reduced. Meanwhile, business ownership is highest among Multiracial (36%), Black (31%), and Gen Z (26%) consumers.
The Financial Industry Is At An Inflection Point
The study surfaces a widening satisfaction and trust gap, and shows just how much alternative financial platforms, such as fintechs and money movement platforms, are changing the financial services landscape.
“This research shows that financial security is shaped by individual circumstances, responsibilities and lived experiences. That’s why it’s so important to meet people where they are and show up with solutions designed to create brighter financial futures. TruStage exists to help people do just that,” added Williams.
Originally reported by CU Today.