Middle-Income Americans Defer Major Purchases Amid Cost Pressures

New survey shows households are postponing essential expenses like home repairs, medical care, and vehicle replacements

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:10pm

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An abstract composition of overlapping triangles and circles in shades of blue, red, and yellow, conceptually representing the economic pressures forcing middle-income households to defer major expenses.As middle-income families struggle to keep up with inflation, they are increasingly forced to delay essential purchases, creating long-term financial challenges.Duluth Today

A new survey from Primerica's Financial Security Monitor found that middle-income American families are increasingly deferring major purchases and expenses due to persistent cost pressures and expectations of continued price increases. Nearly two-thirds of respondents say they delayed a major purchase or expense in the past year, signaling a shift from short-term budgeting to longer-term deferral of critical needs.

Why it matters

The findings highlight the growing financial strain on middle-income households, who are being forced to make difficult tradeoffs that could lead to higher costs down the road. Delaying essential home repairs, medical care, and vehicle replacements can compound financial challenges and undermine long-term financial security and quality of life.

The details

The survey found that among those who delayed expenses, more than half (53%) postponed home repairs or improvements, 43% delayed non-emergency medical or dental procedures, and 39% put off buying or replacing a vehicle. Additionally, more than two-thirds (69%) of middle-income Americans rate their ability to save for the future negatively, and 61% do not believe they are saving enough for retirement. The data suggests that persistent inflation and rising costs are forcing many families to focus on short-term survival rather than long-term financial planning.

  • The latest Financial Security Monitor™ (FSM™) survey was conducted in Q1 2026.

The players

Primerica

A financial services company that provides middle-income families with access to financial products and services.

Glenn J. Williams

The CEO of Primerica.

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What they’re saying

“Many families are taking a closer look at their finances and asking how they can find the money to stay on track. Even in a challenging environment, there are opportunities to uncover dollars that may be going unnoticed. Whether it's reviewing monthly expenses, reducing unnecessary costs, or making the most of a tax refund, small changes can add up and help families move forward with greater confidence.”

— Glenn J. Williams, CEO of Primerica

The takeaway

The survey results underscore the growing financial pressures facing middle-income Americans, who are being forced to make difficult choices that could have long-term consequences for their financial security and quality of life. As households struggle to keep up with rising costs, there is a need for greater financial education and support to help families navigate these challenges and plan for the future.