The American dream is a common expression used to describe the idea that anyone can succeed in the United States through hard work and determination.
Today, about half of Americans (53%) believe that achieving their dreams is still possible. 41% of respondents are of the opinion that once upon a time people could achieve the American dream, but now it is impossible. 6% believe that this was never possible. This is evidenced by the results of a Pew Research Center survey published on July 2, the Voice of America reports.
Researchers note that there are slight differences in views on the American dream depending on race and ethnicity, party affiliations and education. Wider differences are observed in the opinions of respondents depending on their age and income.
Americans aged 50 and older are more likely than younger generations to believe that achieving the American Dream is still possible. Sixty-one percent of respondents aged 50 and over think this, compared with 61 percent of those aged 65 and over. Only 42 percent of respondents aged under 50 say it is still possible for people to achieve the American Dream.
High-income Americans are also more likely to believe that the American dream is still achievable. This view is held by 64% of wealthy Americans, 56% of middle-income Americans, and 39% of low-income Americans.
Roughly half of respondents in every racial and ethnic group leaned toward both Democrats and Republicans, as well as people with both high and low levels of education say the American Dream remains possible.
Pew Research Center notes that survey respondents were divided on whether they believe they personally can achieve the American Dream. About three in ten (31%) say they have achieved this, while 36% believe they are on track to achieve this. Another 30% believe that this is out of reach for them. These views are almost identical to the results of a previous survey conducted by Pew in 2022.
The Pew Research Center poll included 8,709 U.S. adults. The survey was conducted on April 8–14, 2024.
Prepared by: Sergey Daga