New Poll Shows Growing Doubt in American Dream Amid Economic Concerns

A recent survey conducted by the Wall Street Journal-NORC revealed that only 31% of adults in the U.S. believe in the American dream, where hard work leads to success. This marks a significant decline in faith in this ideal, with 46% of respondents stating that it used to be true but no longer is, and 23% believing it was never true. These findings represent the highest level of skepticism in nearly 15 years of polling.

The survey, conducted between July 10-23, 2025, has a margin of error of +/- 3.39 percentage points at the 95 percent confidence level. The study also highlighted concerns about rising grocery prices, with 66% of respondents admitting to switching to cheaper products to save money.

The survey also found that only 25% of respondents believed that they have a good chance of improving their standard of living, a record low since 1987. In addition, a majority of participants noted that it has become more difficult to buy a home compared to their parents’ generation.

A U.S. flag flying above a 9/11 memorial in New Jersey

Despite these challenges, the Trump administration has highlighted low Labor Day gas prices and rising wages for workers as signs of economic strength. However, the survey results indicate a growing sense of doubt and uncertainty among Americans about their economic prospects.