Americans want to believe in a better future for themselves and their children. They may aspire to get a good job, start a business, or own a home. But these goals come at a cost, and many Americans—no matter how hard they work—cannot afford the future they want.

In recent decades, average earnings have stagnated, leaving millions of Americans living paycheck to paycheck. People struggle to afford housing, health care, and child care, and they have little they can set aside for emergencies or retirement. The cost of living is a top concern for most Americans.

This affordability crisis puts Americans’ dreams for tomorrow at risk. If families cannot afford everyday necessities, they certainly cannot build the wealth necessary to achieve the future they want either. Making the cost of living more affordable is necessary to unlock a better future for American households. Addressing affordability can also help bridge partisan divides, as these challenges affect households across income levels, places, and political affiliations. 

To help address the affordability crisis, the Urban Institute is providing timely data on the state of affordability in America and identifying evidence-based policy solutions for federal, state, and local actors. By tracking data on how Americans are faring financially, we give decisionmakers the information they need to create an affordable future for all.