US Consumer Confidence Rebounds in February

Improvement in perceptions of labor market drives increase in index

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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U.S. consumer confidence rebounded more than expected in February, rising 2.2 points to 91.2, as households' perceptions of the labor market improved. The Conference Board's consumer confidence index had previously dropped to its lowest level since May 2014 in January, but the latest data shows a partial recovery.

Why it matters

Consumer confidence is a key indicator of the health of the U.S. economy, as it reflects how optimistic or pessimistic consumers are about their financial situation and the broader economic outlook. An increase in confidence can signal increased consumer spending, which drives economic growth.

The details

The Conference Board's consumer confidence index increased from 89.0 in January (revised up from the initially reported 84.5) to 91.2 in February. Economists had forecast the index would reach 87.0. The improvement was driven by a slight uptick in perceptions of employment conditions, though the measure remains well below its four-year peak reached in November 2024.

  • The consumer confidence index increased in February 2026.
  • The index had previously dropped to its lowest level since May 2014 in January 2026.

The players

The Conference Board

A non-profit business membership and research association that conducts economic research and publishes leading indicators and consumer confidence indexes.

Dana Peterson

Chief economist at The Conference Board.

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What they’re saying

“Confidence ticked up as consumers' pessimistic expectations for the future eased somewhat. Nonetheless, the measure remained well below the four-year peak achieved in November 2024.”

— Dana Peterson, Chief Economist (The Conference Board)

The takeaway

While the rebound in consumer confidence is a positive sign, the index remains well below its recent highs, indicating that consumers are still somewhat cautious about the economic outlook. Continued improvement in the labor market and broader economic conditions will be key to sustaining a recovery in consumer confidence.