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We made it.

The long year of 2024 is coming to a close, capping a tumultuous year filled with more historical firsts to count.

From a public polling perspective, 2024 was largely defined by persisting economic troubles, which ultimately helped decide the 2024 election. How are Americans feeling about the year that lies ahead?

Below are five charts on Americans’ hopes, expectations, and fears for 2025.

1. Bad year. Most Americans feel 2024 was a bad year for the country, roughly on par with how they felt about 2023. There is some political variance, but the consensus is broadly negative.  
2. Economic uncertainty. The economy was perhaps the biggest defining issue of 2024. So much so that Americans voted for President-elect Donald Trump in part to fix what many see as a broken system. However, while Americans’ expectations are improving, many still have a pessimistic outlook on the future of the economy. Of course, partisanship may be playing a role in dampening Americans’ economic expectations, but the Trump administration will still face an uphill battle when it comes to changing Americans’ outlook on the economy.
3. Is it getting hot in here? 2024 is set to be the hottest year on record. Most Americans don’t expect this to slow down. Few feel less optimistic about solutions. With the Trump administration set to potentially reshape America’s climate agenda, this space will face a large degree of uncertainty heading into 2025.
4. Optimism still exists. While Americans are more broadly pessimistic about the world around them, many have positive expectations about their personal lives, including better physical and mental health.
5. Looking forward. Most Americans have at least some sort of resolution for 2025. The most popular resolutions include drinking more water, eating healthier, and exercising more. Here’s to hoping Americans can stick to their goals.

2024 was a tough year for many Americans. Most continue to feel that the country is headed on the wrong track. Many also still felt the pressures of inflation on their personal pocketbook, while a divisive national election left half the country cautiously optimistic and the other half anxious.

Despite the public’s negative outlook on the major issues of the day, many Americans have optimistic outlooks on their personal lives and are looking to start the year off strong with a fresh slate of New Year’s resolutions.

We at Ipsos hope you’re able to do the same and take some time over the holidays to focus on what matters most.

Have a happy holidays!