Texans are feeling the pinch when it comes to the state’s economy and skyrocketing housing costs, according to the latest Texas Lyceum Poll.
The poll, conducted in September, found that nearly half of Texans (47%) believe the state’s economy is on the wrong track, while only 41% think it’s heading in the right direction. This represents a significant shift from the previous year, when a majority of Texans were optimistic about the state’s economic outlook.
One of the biggest concerns among Texans is the rising cost of housing. Nearly two-thirds of respondents (64%) said they are either somewhat or very concerned about housing affordability in Texas. This sentiment is particularly prevalent among younger Texans and those living in urban areas, where housing prices have surged in recent years.
“It’s becoming increasingly difficult for young people to afford a home in Texas,” said one respondent from Austin. “I worry about what this means for the future of our state.”
The poll also found that Texans are feeling the squeeze when it comes to their personal finances. More than half of respondents (54%) said they are either somewhat or very concerned about their financial situation, with many citing rising costs of living and stagnant wages as major contributors to their anxiety.
“I feel like I’m working harder than ever, but I’m not getting ahead,” said another respondent from Houston. “It’s frustrating to see the cost of everything going up while my paycheck stays the same.”
The poll results reflect a broader trend of economic uncertainty in Texas, where job growth has slowed in recent months and the state’s economy has been rocked by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many Texans are now wondering how long the current economic boom will last and what the future holds for their financial well-being.
As policymakers in Texas grapple with these challenges, there is growing pressure to address housing affordability, boost wages, and create more opportunities for economic mobility. The Texas Lyceum Poll serves as a reminder that the economic concerns of Texans are real and pressing, and that action is needed to ensure the state’s continued prosperity.
