A recent AP-NORC poll conducted from April 16-20, 2026, reveals that as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary on July 4, only one-third of Americans believe that the American Dream, defined as the idea that hard work leads to success, remains valid today. Half of the respondents indicated that while the American Dream was once achievable, it no longer is, and 15% stated that it has never been true. These results align with previous findings from WSJ/NORC polls, which reported that 31% of adults in 2025 and 34% in 2024 believed the American Dream still holds true.
The poll indicates significant differences in belief among various demographics. Republicans are more than twice as likely to believe in the American Dream compared to independents and Democrats (57% vs. 24% and 17%, respectively). Additionally, 39% of men believe in the American Dream, compared to 29% of women. Older adults, particularly those aged 60 and older, show a higher belief in the American Dream (46%) compared to only 22% of adults aged 18-29. Furthermore, 40% of white adults believe in the American Dream, while only 19% of Black adults share this belief, with 30% of Black adults stating they feel the American Dream has never been true.
The perception of the American Dream is closely linked to individuals' views on their economic prospects. Those who believe in the American Dream are more likely to express confidence in their ability to secure employment, save for retirement, manage unexpected medical expenses, and purchase a home.
The nationwide poll involved 2,596 adults and has a margin of sampling error of +/- 2.6 percentage points.
