#USA #New York #Consumer Confidence #The Conference Board #Economic Survey

Understanding the Recent Declines in US Consumer Confidence

Recent findings from the Consumer Confidence Survey® conducted by The Conference Board provide a comprehensive look at how various demographic groups in the US perceive the economic landscape. In a nation where optimism and doubt coexist, the data reveals a substantial divergence in viewpoints shaped not only by age and income but also political affiliations.

Key Findings

One prevalent theme emerging from the survey is the challenging job market for younger workers. The data indicate that the job market differential—a comparison of the percentage of consumers who feel jobs are plentiful versus those who think jobs are hard to get—has experienced a notable decrease. As of September 2025, this differential stands at just +7.8%, a stark drop from 22.2% in December 2024.

Among generational lines, Baby Boomers report a positive outlook with a job market differential of +14.9%, thus demonstrating that they are faring relatively well compared to younger generations. In stark contrast, Generation Z faces the bleakest outlook, with a differential of merely +2.1%. This emphasizes the growing challenges faced by younger individuals in entering and thriving in the workforce, particularly given the backdrop of an evolving job market.

Partisan Perspectives on Economic Conditions

Additionally, the data unveils an increasing partisan divide over economic perspectives, a trend that has become more pronounced in 2025. As political allegiance typically influences sentiments toward the economy, current figures reveal that Republicans hold a more favorable view compared to Independents and Democrats. The Present Situation Index shows a stark contrast: 160.5 for Republicans compared to 110.5 for Independents and 107.9 for Democrats. The widening gap—over 50 points now, compared to around 35 points in early April—suggests a growing schism in economic perceptions across party lines.

Insights on Consumer Confidence Trends

Historically observing consumer sentiment trends, this current dataset offers insights into long-term shifts post-pandemic. Notably, older consumers have expressed more positive sentiments than their younger counterparts, particularly regarding their assessments of present economic conditions while concurrently exhibiting heightened apprehensions about the future.

Such dynamics invite critical attention to how economic policies can be shaped in ways that bridge the perception gaps among generations and political parties. The disparities outlined in this data highlight the need for policymakers to cultivate an environment that supports equitable economic growth as the nation moves forward into uncertain times.

About the Dataset

This data is part of The Conference Board’s new Premium Dataset, which expands on the existing consumer confidence survey to include detailed demographic insights and expanded information on consumer spending intentions across various goods and service categories. By aggregating this data, businesses and media can gain nuanced understandings of consumer behavior trends critically needed in today's fluctuating economic climate.

Conclusion

In summary, the disparities in consumer confidence reflect deeper underlying issues that need addressing—from job market accessibility for younger generations to the influences of political climate on economic perceptions. The findings underscore essential conversations that must be had to foster a more inclusive economy, benefitting all demographics equally. As such, strategies informed by this data will be vital in shaping a more optimistic outlook for the future.