As market volatility continues, Americans are shifting their views on the best long-term investments. Real estate remains the top choice for the 12th consecutive year, while gold has gained ground and stocks have lost favor, according to a new Gallup survey.
The April 1–14 poll, conducted after the Trump administration announced sweeping tariffs, found 37% of U.S. adults now view real estate as the best long-term investment. Gold rose to 23%, up five points from last year. Meanwhile, stocks fell to 16%, dropping six points and reversing their 2024 gains.
Gold gains, stocks slip amid market instability
The shift comes after sharp declines in stock values and a sell-off of U.S. government bonds earlier this spring. Economists have warned of a potential recession, and investor sentiment is clearly adjusting.
While gold’s popularity has increased, it remains below its record high of 34% set in 2011 during the post-recession years. Americans’ preference for stocks has historically dipped during periods of financial uncertainty, a pattern reflected again in 2025.
Other investment preferences remained stable, with 13% favoring savings accounts or CDs, 5% choosing bonds, and 4% opting for cryptocurrency.
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Income levels shape investment preferences
Across income groups, real estate is the top pick. However, higher-income Americans — those earning $100,000 or more annually — are far more likely to favor stocks. In contrast, lower-income adults tend to prefer safer, tangible investments like gold or savings accounts.
This income-based trend has remained consistent in Gallup’s surveys over recent years.
Stock ownership holds steady at 62%
Despite declining confidence in stocks as the best investment, stock market participation remains strong. Gallup reports that 62% of U.S. adults, either individually or with a spouse, currently own stocks through direct purchases, mutual funds, or retirement plans like 401(k)s and IRAs.
Additionally, 59% of Americans say they have money in some form of retirement savings plan. Stock and retirement investors continue to skew wealthier, older, married, and college-educated.
Investment worries grow
The survey also found that Americans are increasingly concerned about getting poor returns on their investments. About 53% of respondents reported being worried — including 26% who are “very worried” — about their investment performance.
Those with stock investments are more likely to express concern (62%) compared to those without (38%).
Bottom line
Economic uncertainty is driving a reshuffling of Americans’ investment priorities. Real estate remains the most trusted long-term investment, while gold is on the rise and confidence in stocks has weakened. However, stock ownership overall remains steady, suggesting that many investors are staying the course — for now.
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