Primerica Household Budget Index Flat in February

Purchasing power for middle-income Americans remains unchanged despite rising inflation

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:53am

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The latest Primerica Household Budget Index (HBI) data shows the purchasing power of middle-income families remained flat in February 2026 at 101.4%, unchanged from January but up 1.8% from a year ago. While the overall Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 2.4% year-over-year, the HBI metric focused on middle-income households saw inflation rise 2.9% during the same period.

Why it matters

The HBI provides a more targeted look at how inflation and wage trends are impacting the ability of middle-income families to afford everyday necessities like food, gas, utilities, and healthcare. This data is important because middle-income households make up over 55% of the U.S. population and are a key driver of consumer spending and the overall economy.

The details

The HBI examines the purchasing power of middle-income families with household incomes between $30,000 and $130,000. While the overall CPI increased 2.4% in February 2026 compared to a year earlier, the HBI-specific inflation rate for middle-income households was 2.9%. However, the HBI index itself remained flat at 101.4% in February, unchanged from January, indicating middle-income purchasing power has held steady despite rising costs for necessities.

  • The HBI is calculated and released monthly.
  • The February 2026 HBI data was released on March 31, 2026.

The players

Primerica, Inc.

A leading provider of financial products and services to middle-income households in North America, headquartered in Duluth, Georgia.

Amy Crews Cutts, Ph.D., CBE®

Economic consultant to Primerica who constructs the monthly Household Budget Index data.

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What they’re saying

“Rising energy costs will be important to watch for middle-income households in the months ahead. Small modifications in daily activities along with careful budget planning and strategic use of savings will help families better navigate these changes.”

— Amy Crews Cutts, Economic consultant to Primerica

What’s next

Primerica will continue to monitor the Household Budget Index closely in the coming months to track the impact of rising inflation, especially on energy costs, for middle-income American families.

The takeaway

While overall inflation has risen, the Primerica Household Budget Index shows middle-income families have so far been able to maintain their purchasing power through a combination of steady wages and careful budgeting. However, rising energy prices remain a key concern that could put pressure on this group's financial security in the months ahead.