High tariffs and ongoing global uncertainty are forcing many American families to rethink their spending choices. Tariffs, particularly from the U.S.-China trade disagreements, have led to higher prices for everyday items like groceries and personal care products. At the same time, rising inflation, high interest rates, and slower worldwide economic growth are adding extra financial stress on families. Because of these challenges, middle- and lower-income households often must cut back on necessities or delay important expenses like medical care. Unlike wealthier families, who are better positioned to handle price increases, most ordinary Americans now face difficult financial decisions every day.

Despite growing fears about a possible recession in 2025, many American consumers continue spending money rather freely. Recent data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York shows that people have become more worried about inflation and overall economic stability, yet they have not cut back significantly on their purchases or spending habits. Inflation—the rate at which prices steadily rise—is expected to stay high, prompting major stores like Walmart to already begin raising prices and plan further increases later this year. These price hikes are partly due to ongoing tariffs from the Trump administration, which increase the cost of imported goods and add strain on retailers and everyday consumers.