More Massachusetts residents say their finances are in poor shape, UMass poll finds

"The survey, conducted between Oct. 21 and Oct. 29 with 800 respondents and a 4.1% margin of error, shows growing financial strain among Massachusetts residents. Since February, the share of people rating their own finances as "poor" has risen from 15% to 21%-the highest level since the survey began in 2021. Those describing their finances as "fair" dropped from 44% in February to 37% in October."

"The results make sense, Nteta said, due to rising grocery and utility costs, affects from tariffs, stock market volatility, and job market instability. However, he said, the biggest issue on people's minds is the state's housing crisis. According to this poll, Nteta said, Massachusetts residents want to see this problem addressed - whether it's at the state or national level. He noted it will definitely be a central issue in the 2026 midterm elections."

An Oct. 21–29 UMass Amherst/WCVB poll of 800 Massachusetts residents (±4.1%) finds rising financial strain. The share rating their finances "poor" rose from 15% in February to 21% in October, while those describing finances as "fair" fell from 44% to 37%. Only 4% called their finances "excellent" and 38% "good." Respondents cited rising grocery and utility costs, tariffs, stock market volatility, and job market instability. The state's housing crisis emerged as the foremost concern. Housing is expected to be a central issue in the 2026 midterm elections and could affect incumbent prospects.

Read at Boston.com