The American Dream, the idea that every citizen should have an equal opportunity to achieve success and prosperity through hard work, determination, and initiative, is still considered viable by many. However, the perception of its achievability varies depending on factors such as age, education, and political affiliation.
According to a Gallup survey, 70% of U.S. adults still view the American Dream as personally achievable, while 29% say it is unattainable. A GoDaddy survey found that 54% of small-business owners defined the American Dream as “feeling happy in life,” and 49% said it involved “freedom to follow my passions”. However, 24% of respondents in the NORC – University of Chicago poll said the American Dream is out of reach and no longer viewed the United States as the “land of opportunity”.
Factors contributing to the perception of the American Dream as out of reach include technological and geopolitical disruptions, high inflation, fears of a looming recession, housing shortages, higher crime rates, and political polarization. Additionally, 31% of people with only a high school diploma say the American Dream is out of reach, compared to 16% of those with a college degree.
The American Dream remains an ideal that many people strive for, but the perception of its achievability is influenced by various factors, including age, education, and economic conditions. While some may achieve the American Dream, others may face barriers and struggle to attain it.