Story perspectives

American Dream Dwindles: 70% of Residents Pessimistic

9/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A CNN analysis shows 70% of U.S. residents are pessimistic about the American dream, up from 51% in 2010.
Belief in the American dream has decreased from 47% to 29% over 15 years, especially among 18-29 year-olds.
Only 25% of Americans expect to improve their standard of living, the lowest since 1987.
Housing affordability has worsened, with home prices nearly five times the average income.
Confidence in homeownership among young Americans is at 54%, despite 74% valuing it.

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Story summary

A CNN analysis shows 70% of U.S. residents are pessimistic about the American dream, up from 51% in 2010.
Belief in the American dream has decreased from 47% to 29% over 15 years, especially among 18-29 year-olds.
Only 25% of Americans expect to improve their standard of living, the lowest since 1987.
Housing affordability has worsened, with home prices nearly five times the average income.
Confidence in homeownership among young Americans is at 54%, despite 74% valuing it.