In 2025, many Americans are cutting back on everyday purchases due to rising prices and worries about a possible recession. According to recent surveys, over 60% of people in the U.S. are concerned about their ability to afford basic needs. As a result, smart consumers are skipping items like pre-packaged foods, bottled drinks, and branded cleaning supplies. Instead, they’re getting creative—making things like bread, dressings, and even cleaners at home to save money. This change isn't just about spending less; it's also about feeling more in control during uncertain economic times. Global tensions, like those between the U.S. and China, are making people think more carefully about how and where they spend their money.

In October 2025, U.S. consumer sentiment stayed mostly steady, with only a tiny drop from September, according to the University of Michigan. The overall reading was 55.0, which was better than economists expected. This shows that while people feel a bit better about their current financial situation, they’re still very worried about the future. High inflation and concerns about job security are the top issues on most people’s minds. The mixed report—rising current conditions but falling expectations—reflects how Americans feel stuck: doing okay now, but unsure and anxious about what comes next.