Americans report declining belief in attainability of the American dream

11 articles · Updated · spectator.com · Apr 22

A new YouGov survey commissioned for the US’s 250th anniversary finds only 38% of Americans believe hard work leads to success for all, while 59% say the dream is less attainable than before.
Just 38% rate today’s quality of life as ‘excellent’ or ‘good’, compared to 60% in 1976, reflecting increased pessimism amid stagnant real wages and a shrinking middle class.
The US ranks 27th in global social mobility, and experts warn that fading faith in the American dream could have serious economic and social consequences, challenging long-held beliefs about meritocracy and opportunity.

Is the new American Dream simply achieving stability? What does this shift mean for national ambition and innovation?

As the American Dream fades for immigrants, what is the long-term economic cost to the United States?

Beyond money, how is the erosion of the American Dream reshaping the nation's mental health and identity?

If more families are earning 'upper-middle class' incomes, why do so many Americans feel poorer than ever before?

As Boomers' wealth transfers, will it worsen inequality or offer a lifeline to younger generations?

Why can a child's zip code determine their future success more than their own hard work?