Core Insights - A recent poll by AP and NORC indicates that 86% of American adults feel pressure from grocery prices, with about half identifying it as a "major source" of stress [1][4] - The survey highlights significant financial anxiety related to grocery costs across various demographics, particularly among low-income individuals [5][6] Group 1: Financial Pressure from Grocery Costs - Grocery prices are identified as one of the most impactful financial stressors, affecting both young and elderly populations [5] - 64% of low-income Americans (annual household income below $30,000) report grocery costs as a "major" source of stress, compared to about 40% of those earning $100,000 or more [5] - Only about 20% of high-income individuals do not consider grocery costs a problem [6] Group 2: Coping Mechanisms - The use of "buy now, pay later" services is increasing among American households as a strategy to manage living costs, with approximately 30% of adults having utilized such services for groceries, healthcare, or entertainment [7] - Young people and minority groups are more likely to use these financial tools [7] Group 3: Demographic Variations in Financial Anxiety - Women are more likely than men to experience higher levels of stress regarding income, savings, grocery costs, and healthcare expenses [10] - Hispanic adults express particular concern over housing costs, credit card, and student debt, with about two-thirds identifying housing costs as a "major" source of stress [10]