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The Paycheck-to-Paycheck Consumer

In May 2025, 24.2% of consumers are living paycheck to paycheck and struggling with their bills

Source: PYMNTS Intelligence
May 2025, fielded May 1, 2025 – May 21, 2025
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The Role of Income

In May 2025, 38.7% of low-income consumers are living paycheck to paycheck and struggling with their bills

Source: PYMNTS Intelligence
May 2025, fielded May 1, 2025 – May 21, 2025
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The Role of Generation

In May 2025, 26.3% of gen Z consumers are living paycheck to paycheck and struggling with their bills

Source: PYMNTS Intelligence
May 2025, fielded May 1, 2025 – May 21, 2025
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Savings and Paycheck to Paycheck Status

In May 2025, consumers living paycheck to paycheck and struggling with their bills had an average of $4,132 in savings

Source: PYMNTS Intelligence
May 2025, fielded May 1, 2025 – May 21, 2025
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Credit Card Revolvers and Paycheck to Paychecks Status

In May 2025, 39.9% of cardholders living paycheck to paycheck and struggling with their bills usually revolve their credit card balances

Source: PYMNTS Intelligence
May 2025, fielded May 1, 2025 – May 21, 2025
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Choice Versus Necessity in Paycheck to Paychecks Status

In May 2025, 21.0% of consumers were living paycheck to paycheck and struggling with their bills by choice

Source: PYMNTS Intelligence
May 2025, fielded May 1, 2025 – May 21, 2025
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Methodology

This analysis is based on monthly surveys conducted online with a US Census-balanced sample of about 2,000 consumers, ensuring representative distribution across key demographic segments (gender, income, age).