66% of Americans Call Groceries Unaffordable as May Prices Jump 2.7%
Updated
Updated · The Daily Beast · Jul 16
66% of Americans Call Groceries Unaffordable as May Prices Jump 2.7%
3 articles · Updated · The Daily Beast · Jul 16
Summary
A Washington Post-Ipsos poll found 66% of Americans now say groceries are unaffordable, up from 45% in February, while only one-third still call prices affordable.
May grocery prices were 2.7% higher than a month earlier, with staples climbing broadly—sugar and sweets and poultry each rose 1.3%, fish and seafood 1.2%, and pork 1.0%.
Oil prices have jumped about 35% since the U.S.-Iran ceasefire collapsed and a naval blockade of Iranian ports resumed, raising fuel costs that feed through farming, manufacturing and transport.
Affordability concerns cut across income groups: 56% of households earning over $100,000 say groceries are unaffordable, rising to 70% for $50,000-$100,000 earners and 82% below $50,000.
Gasoline is already moving back toward $5 a gallon, and strategists warn further energy-driven food inflation could deepen a political problem for Republicans before the midterms.
Why do most Americans feel no relief from a major tax cut law passed last year?
With a new war and rising prices at home, how are global conflicts reshaping American household finances?
After five months of war, what is the viable path to prevent a nuclear Iran and restore stability?
Widespread Public Discontent as Trump’s Approval Plummets: Economic Hardship and Iran War Shape 2026 Midterm Outlook
Overview
As of July 2026, Americans are widely dissatisfied and pessimistic about the nation’s direction, with President Donald Trump facing negative reviews and approval ratings near his second-term lows. While 85% of Republicans still support him, the share who strongly approve has dropped. Rising costs of living are straining households, and many doubt the administration’s negotiations with Iran will lower gas prices or improve the situation. This combination of economic hardship and skepticism about foreign policy is fueling public discontent, highlighting a disconnect between the administration’s actions and the everyday concerns of Americans.