Category Basics

In October 2025, the Social Security Administration continued sending out monthly payments to millions of Americans, especially retirees born between the 21st and 31st of the month. These payments are a major source of income for many seniors, people with disabilities, and survivors. With inflation still high and lawmakers in Washington struggling to agree on financial policies, many older Americans are relying more than ever on their Social Security checks. While most people now get their money through direct deposit or a benefit card, paper checks are hardly used anymore. The payment amount depends on a person’s work history and the age they started collecting benefits. Those who waited until age 70 to claim could receive up to $5,108 each month.

In 2025, the cost of relocating—whether for work or lifestyle—has become more expensive for many Americans. This is mainly due to rising inflation, high interest rates, and continued housing shortages that began after the pandemic. On top of that, many buildings now include ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) features, like energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials, which make them more eco-friendly but also more expensive. Contractors say these upgrades can cost as much or more than traditional construction, and those costs are often passed on to the people moving in. As a result, both individuals and companies are feeling the pressure of higher moving costs during an already uncertain time for the economy.

The U.S. government shutdown has delayed the release of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for September 2025. The report, which measures changes in the cost of goods and services, was originally set for October 15 but is now expected on October 24. This delay comes at a time when inflation is a major concern for both consumers and investors. Experts believe that prices rose 0.4% from August to September, and that inflation over the past year may have increased to 3.1%. Core inflation, which leaves out food and energy prices because they change often, is also expected to stay high. Rising prices are being blamed partly on tariffs, which are taxes on imports that raise the cost of goods like clothing and furniture.

In 2025, homebuyers in the U.S. are dealing with a new normal when it comes to buying a house. The typical down payment—a portion of the home’s price paid upfront—has jumped to $30,400, more than double what it was in 2019. Even though mortgage interest rates have come down slightly to the low-6% range, they’re still too high for many people trying to afford a home. Combined with high home prices, this makes it harder for buyers to enter the market. As a result, fewer people are buying homes, and the usual increase in down payments during the spring and summer has mostly disappeared. This shows that home affordability is still a big problem for many Americans.

As of October 2025, the U.S. economy is dealing with higher-than-normal inflation and rising interest rates. Inflation, which measures how much prices are going up, is still above the Federal Reserve's 2% target, mainly because of tariffs that are making everyday goods more expensive. In August, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed prices had risen 2.9% compared to the previous year, and experts think September's data might show a small increase too. Core inflation, which leaves out food and energy prices, is staying around 3.1%. Because of these numbers, the Federal Reserve lowered interest rates slightly in September to help support the economy. However, people are keeping a close eye on the delayed September CPI report, which will give more clues about whether or not we’re heading toward a recession.

In recent years, the U.S. economy has split into two very different experiences for Americans, a trend often called "The Great Divergence." On one side are the wealthier households—mainly Gen X and Baby Boomers—who built up savings during the pandemic, have seen their investments grow, and work in high-paying jobs. These individuals are still spending freely on things like vacations and luxury items. On the other side, most Americans—especially Millennials and Gen Z—are struggling to keep up. Their wages have barely grown, while the prices of basics like food, rent, and gas have jumped by over 20% since 2020. As a result, many are cutting back, shopping at discount stores, and focusing only on essentials. This growing divide is changing how different groups of people live, spend, and plan for the future.