With food prices up 2.5% from last year, many Americans are changing their shopping habits to cope with inflation. A LendingTree survey found that 88% of shoppers are making adjustments, such as buying generic brands and sticking to strict shopping lists.
Inflation has also affected dining habits, with 59% of respondents cutting back on eating out. Among those who still dine out, many—especially Gen Z—are tipping less or not at all for takeout. The financial strain is causing anxiety for lower-income households, with 74% of those earning under $30,000 feeling stressed about grocery costs.
Despite economic pressures, inflation remains above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, complicating policy decisions and fueling political debates ahead of the next election.
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