Polling News

It’s Been Thirty Years Since Food Ate Up This Much of Income

February 29, 2024

The last time Americans spent this much of their disposable income on food was in 1991, according to a Wall Street Journal review of U.S. Department of Agriculture data.

By The Numbers:

  • In 1991, Americans spent 11.4% of their disposable income on food. That number declined over the next 25 years, until it began increasing in 2022, when it hit 11.3%.
  • These numbers come as many Americans say they are also going out to eat less and buying cheaper brands than they have traditionally. 
     

The Bottom Line: These numbers are emblematic of why Americans are feeling sour on the economy, despite the Biden Administration’s efforts to say that “Bidenomics” is turning the country around. Families are now spending more of their income on food because of increased food prices, instead of saving money for things like tuition for the kids, a new home, a new car, vacation, and other items. Until food prices stabilize and decline, it is unlikely hat Americans will feel like the economy is moving in a good direction. If they have this kind of pressure on their kitchen tables, no slogan or economist spin will make them believe things are getting better.  

Related PollingNews

Placeholder polling news
May 16, 2024 |
Polling News
Republicans have a real shot at taking control of the U.S. Senate. ...
Placeholder polling news
May 09, 2024 |
Polling News
Voters supporting Joe Biden and Donald Trump are divided on many issues as well as the sources they use to consume news, according to a new NBC News poll.  ...
Placeholder polling news
May 02, 2024 |
Polling News
With 186 days until Election Day, one of the most important resources a candidate has is time.  ...
Placeholder polling news
April 25, 2024 |
Polling News
A recent poll from the Pew Research Center found that if the election were held today, most voters who turned out in 2020 would show up for the same candidate in 2024, while voter discouragement with both candidates continues to be a problem for both Bide...
Button karlsbooks
Button readinglist
Button nextapperance