In 2025, many Americans are finding it harder than ever to afford health care. A recent survey by the Pew Research Center shows that 27% of people in the U.S. had trouble paying for medical care for themselves or their families in the past year. This is due to several factors, including ongoing inflation, new tariffs that make imported medical goods more expensive, and uncertainty about the economy. Health care costs are rising faster than before and now make up a bigger portion of household spending. As a result, families are being forced to rethink their budgets and make tough choices about what they can and can't afford.

In September 2025, U.S. consumer confidence dropped sharply as rising prices and new tariffs made life more expensive for many Americans. A recent survey from the University of Michigan showed that people are feeling more worried about the economy, especially those in lower- and middle-income groups. This nervousness comes from continued high inflation—where the cost of everyday goods like food and gas stays high—and tariffs, or taxes on imports, that make things cost even more. As a result, the Federal Reserve is expected to lower interest rates in an effort to boost the economy and ease financial pressure on households.

Mortgage rates in the U.S. have recently dropped to 6.35% for a 30-year fixed loan, the lowest they've been in nearly a year. This change comes as many expect the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates soon, possibly by half a point. The rate drop has already led to a 10% jump in mortgage applications, as more people see this as a good time to buy a home. These lower rates are happening during a time when the economy is facing challenges like high inflation, job market struggles, and global conflicts that are driving up the cost of energy and food. For homebuyers, this could be a smart chance to lock in a better deal before rates potentially rise again.