The American Dream: Still Alive But Doubts Are Rising
How Florida’s Views Compare to National Trends
Results Press Release
Main results:
| Question | National % | Florida % | Difference (FL – Nat) | Interpretation |
| Confident in improving standard of living (Very + Somewhat) | 67.2% | 66.7% | –0.5 | Nearly identical optimism overall. |
| Believe the American Dream still holds true | 51.9% | 53.1% | +1.2 |
Slightly more Floridians believe in the American Dream. |
| Future generations will have a better life (Yes, definitely/somewhat) | 54.2% | 58.2% | +4.0 |
Floridians are a bit more hopeful about their kids’ futures. |
| Rate U.S. economy as Excellent/Good | 38.5% | 40.9% | +2.4 |
Floridians slightly more upbeat on the national economy. |
| Considering moving due to cost of living (Yes seriously + somewhat) | 44.3% | 49.6% | +5.3 |
Floridians are more likely to consider leaving due to high costs. |
| Very concerned about inflation | 54.9% | 56.0% | +1.1 |
Concern about inflation is universal-essentially equal. |
| Very concerned about housing affordability | 47.8% | 49.2% | +1.4 |
Housing pressure is marginally higher in Florida. |
| Very concerned about job security | 29.7% | 28.6% | –1.1 |
Roughly the same levels of employment anxiety. |
| Very concerned about healthcare/debt | 48.5% | 49.9% | +1.4 |
Concern over healthcare costs consistent nationwide. |
Key Takeaways:
- Optimism is similar: Floridians are about as confident as the national average regarding improving their standard of living.
- Belief in the American Dream is slightly higher in Florida (53% vs. 52%).
- Concern about cost of living and housing is notably higher in Florida-especially the number saying they’re considering leaving the state (+5 points).
- Economic outlook is a bit more positive among Floridians (41% rate the economy as good/excellent vs. 38% nationally).
- Inflation and affordability worries remain top concerns in both samples.