Women Are More Concerned About The Economy Than Men, Poll Finds
A new national poll revealed a stark gender divide in perceptions of the current U.S. economy. Conducted by Harris Poll, the survey showed that 62% of women believe the economy and inflation are deteriorating, compared to 47% of men — a very sizable 15-point gap.
This concern crosses party lines. Women identifying as Democrats, Republicans, and independents all expressed more economic anxiety than men within their respective affiliations. The data suggests that rising prices disproportionately impact women and that they remain unconvinced by Trump’s financial strategy.
Women Shoulder Economic Burden
Polling data highlights a significant gender-based difference in how Americans experience economic stress. A majority of women (71%) report being the primary household shopper — a role that places them on the front lines of rising costs. This responsibility likely contributes to why more women than men report:
- Grave concern over food prices (52% vs. 39%)
- Spending more time finding deals (36% vs. 26%)
- Worsening financial security due to unaffordable essentials (55% vs. 46%)
Women are also less confident in their financial futures. Just 27% feel comfortable affording a family, compared to 43% of men. Fewer women are optimistic about switching jobs or receiving raises, indicating that economic pessimism extends beyond current prices to long-term stability.
Tariffs and Gender Inequity Fuel Discontent
Trump’s continued use of tariffs as an economic tool is likely compounding gendered financial pressure. Though inflation has not significantly spiked since his return to office, many firms are passing tariff-related costs to consumers.
The full effects may still be unfolding, but early indications suggest women feel these increases more acutely due to structural inequalities like pay gaps and disproportionate caregiving responsibilities.
Political Consequences Loom
The results carry political implications. While Trump improved his standing among women voters in 2024, they still favored Kamala Harris by a 10-point margin. Given that women are more likely to be registered voters and participate in elections, their economic discontent could shape the political landscape leading into 2026. Harris Poll’s Chief Strategy Officer Libby Rodney summarized the overall sentiment: “Women aren’t being pessimistic about the economy — they’re being realistic.”
This realism may turn into a potent electoral force if economic conditions don’t improve or if policy changes fail to address what more than half of American women now describe as worsening financial pressure.
