Budgeting Survey: Fewest Americans Living Paycheck to Paycheck in Five Years

Debt.com's 2026 Budgeting Survey found that budgeting continues to deliver measurable benefits, with most people who maintain a budget saying it has helped them manage or avoid debt. The survey also revealed that 44% of households budget together, the highest response for the fourth consecutive year, while 95% of Americans believe budgeting is more important now than ever. At the same time, many consumers continue to struggle with consistency, citing lack of time and competing priorities as barriers to maintaining a budget. The report also highlights a notable decline in the number of Americans living paycheck to paycheck, suggesting some improvement in household financial stability.

These findings suggest consumers remain highly focused on financial discipline even as conditions improve, creating opportunities for banks, credit unions, financial advisors, insurance providers, retailers and other consumer-facing businesses that can demonstrate value, help households stretch their budgets and support long-term financial confidence.