A Unexpectedly High Number of Americans Think Economy Is Excellent

According to a recent survey, the number of Americans who describe the economy as poor is climbing. The poll, carried out jointly by The Economist and YouGov from November 28 to December 1, asked U.S. adults to assess the current economic situation.

Most participants rate the economy as either fair or poor, yet a small portion still considers it excellent.

Majority Assess Economy as Fair or Weak

The survey shows a growing concern over economic conditions: 41% of respondents label the economy as poor, while 33% say it is fair. Conversely, 21% describe it as good, and only 3% rate it as excellent. The 41% figure is the highest since April 2025, although earlier in September 2024, more Americans described the economy as poor.

Similarly, 41% report that their personal or family finances are worse compared to 2024, while just 12% feel better off. Additionally, 74% of respondents indicate that prices for most goods are higher than a year ago, whereas 10% observe lower prices.

The poll highlights a political split regarding price perception: 93% of Democrats believe prices have risen, compared with 49% of Republicans. Only 2% of Democrats see prices as lower, while 23% of Republicans think they have decreased.

The survey included around 1,600 American adults, with respondents identifying as 31% Democrats and 33% Republicans. The margin of error for the poll is approximately 3%.

Author: Olivia Parker