Story perspectives

25% of U.S. Households Struggle Financially Amid Rising Costs

11/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

About 25% of U.S. households live paycheck to paycheck, per a Bank of America analysis.
About 24% of households spend more than 95% of income on essentials such as housing and groceries.
This trend shows a widening K-shaped economy, where affluent Americans thrive while lower-income households face challenges.
Wage growth for lower-income Americans has stagnated, with inflation outpacing earnings.
Rising debt and late loan payments worsen the strain.

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Story summary

About 25% of U.S. households live paycheck to paycheck, per a Bank of America analysis.
About 24% of households spend more than 95% of income on essentials such as housing and groceries.
This trend shows a widening K-shaped economy, where affluent Americans thrive while lower-income households face challenges.
Wage growth for lower-income Americans has stagnated, with inflation outpacing earnings.
Rising debt and late loan payments worsen the strain.