A new statewide survey shows Rhode Islanders are increasingly worried about the cost of everyday goods, the burden of winter energy bills, and the overall direction of the economy as 2026 approaches.
The latest Ocean State Poll from the University of New Hampshire (UNH) Survey Center finds residents remain financially strained and broadly pessimistic about both their personal finances and broader economic conditions.
Most Households Not Better Off
Only 13% of Rhode Islanders say they are better off financially than a year ago. Forty percent report being worse off, while 47% say their situation is unchanged.
Lower-income households feel the greatest strain: nearly half of respondents earning under $75,000 a year say they are worse off financially. Democrats are also more likely than Republicans to report a financial decline.
Looking ahead, just 21% expect their finances to improve next year. Thirty-five percent believe they’ll be worse off, while the rest anticipate no change.
Inflation Pressures Persist
Nearly eight in ten Rhode Islanders (79%) say prices for regularly purchased items have increased over the past year, including 49% who say prices rose significantly. Only 7% report seeing prices fall.
Most residents—64%—expect prices to rise again in the coming year. Among those anticipating increases, respondents most often cite tariffs, poor economic management, and ongoing inflation as key drivers.
Heating Bills a Major Worry
As winter approaches, concern over home heating costs is widespread. Seventy-eight percent of Rhode Islanders say they are very or somewhat worried about their heating bills, up from 70% in late 2024.
Nearly 40% say they are very worried. While concern cuts across political lines, it is strongest among Independents and Democrats.
Economic Outlook Remains Grim
The survey finds deep pessimism about the national economy. Sixty percent of residents believe the U.S. economy is getting worse, compared with 26% who say it is improving.
Views are sharply divided by party: nearly all Democrats say the economy is worsening, while most Republicans say it is getting better.
Sentiment about Rhode Island’s business climate is slightly less negative but still bleak. Nearly 44% expect bad times for state businesses in the coming year, while just 6% foresee good times.
Holiday Spending Expected to Drop
Many households are preparing to rein in spending this holiday season. Only 13% expect to spend more than last year, while 39% plan to spend less.
Just 27% say they have more than enough money to cover holiday shopping. Twelve percent say they do not plan to shop at all.
The Ocean State Poll surveyed 711 Rhode Island adults online from Nov. 13–17, 2025. The margin of sampling error is plus or minus 3.7 percentage points.
