Washington, D.C. – Recent findings reveal that fewer than half of Americans are “very satisfied” with their personal lives, marking only the third occasion in over twenty years where such sentiment has dipped below the 50% threshold. Currently, 47% of U.S. adults report high levels of satisfaction, a slight decrease from the previous year and narrowly above the record low of 46% observed in 2011.
This decline in personal satisfaction aligns with periods of economic instability, notably the 2011 dip following the 2007-2009 recession and a similar low in December 2008 amidst a global economic downturn. The Gallup Mood of the Nation poll, conducted from January 2-22, 2024, also indicates a broader discontent with the national economy, echoing the sentiments of dissatisfaction.
Despite 47% of adults expressing they are very satisfied, an additional 31% describe themselves as somewhat satisfied, leaving 20% of the population in varying degrees of dissatisfaction. This overall satisfaction rate of 78% falls significantly below the average of 84% recorded since 1979 and represents the lowest point since 2011. This downward trend in satisfaction comes after a peak of 90% in January 2020, just before the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The survey highlights that satisfaction is highest among specific demographics, including upper-income households, married individuals, and those who regularly participate in religious activities. Other groups with notably high satisfaction rates include college graduates, Democrats, and older Americans aged 55 and above.
While most demographic groups report stable or slightly declining satisfaction compared to the previous year, Democrats stand out as slightly more content this year. Conversely, Republicans have seen a 10-point drop in the percentage of those reporting high personal satisfaction.