Poll: Most North Carolinians Struggling Financially, But Hopeful for the Future
71% of residents describe their current financial situation as “fair” or “poor”, with only 28% rating their finances as “good” or “excellent.”
Holly Springs, NC, Feb. 14, 2025 — A new Meredith College Poll (link) found that most North Carolinians are facing financial difficulties, but many believe their situation will improve in the coming year. The survey, conducted in early February 2025, shows that 71% of residents describe their current financial situation as “fair” or “poor,” with only 28% rating their finances as “good” or “excellent.” Despite these challenges, 65% of respondents expect their finances to improve within the next year, while 19% anticipate their situation will worsen.
The poll results indicate that financial strain is widespread across the state. Respondents with lower education levels are more likely to report financial difficulties, with fewer than 5% of those without a high school diploma describing their financial situation as “good” or better. At the same time, those with higher education degrees are more likely to report being in a stronger financial position. However, the survey does not specify whether these respondents are seeing an increase in wages or other financial benefits.
While many residents report financial struggles, the poll shows that a majority remain hopeful about their financial future. Nearly two-thirds believe their situation will improve, though the survey does not indicate specific reasons for this optimism.
Sentiment by Political Affiliation
The poll found notable differences in financial sentiment based on political affiliation: Republicans were the most optimistic, with 80.5% expecting financial improvements. Democrats were less confident, with 58.7% predicting improvement in their financial situation. Unaffiliated voters had a similar outlook to Democrats, with 57.3% expecting financial gains.
Sentiment by Age Group
The poll also highlighted differences in financial sentiment across age groups: Young adults (18-28 years old) were among the most optimistic, with over 35% expecting their financial situation to improve significantly. Middle-aged respondents (45-60 years old) had a more cautious outlook, with a greater proportion expecting their financial situation to remain stable or worsen. Older adults (80+ years old) were among those least concerned about their current financial situation, with a larger portion rating their finances as “good” or “excellent.”
A Disconnect Between Economic Data and Public Perception
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), economic growth has continued recently, but public sentiment about financial security remains mixed. The poll findings suggest that many North Carolinians do not feel direct financial benefits from broader economic trends. With the economy remaining a central issue, policymakers and analysts will likely watch closely to see whether public financial sentiment improves in line with economic indicators in the months ahead.
About the Poll
The February 2025 poll (link) surveyed 703 registered voters in North Carolina between February 3-10, 2025. The results were weighted by gender, party affiliation, geographic location, race and ethnicity, and education to reflect the state’s demographics. The poll has a margin of error of +/- 3.75%.
The Meredith College Poll, conducted by the Meredith College Department of Political Science, has been surveying North Carolina voters since 2015. It provides nonpartisan insights into public opinion on political and social issues affecting the state. The poll is independently funded by Meredith College, a private college in Raleigh, and is designed to reflect a balanced and accurate representation of North Carolinians.