JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A new University of South Florida survey that polled 600 Floridians found that nearly half are having a hard time paying necessary bills because of inflation.
Many said they have put off going on trips because of gas prices.
Others say they have struggled to pay their rent or mortgages because of inflation.
READ: Results of USF survey on inflation
Currently, inflation is at a 40-year high and is affecting things like buying groceries, paying bills on time, and the price at the pump.
For example, when people were asked if how much they made kept up with the cost of goods and services over the last year, almost 360 people said “No” while only 90 said “Yes.”
Participants said inflation is also impacting how they feel about the housing market.
Of those surveyed, 36% of Floridians who don’t own a home say that they are putting off buying due to the hot market as well as increased expenses, such as skyrocketing insurance premiums.
According to data from the Florida Realtors Research Department, the statewide average for a single-family house in March was $396,000. That is up more than 21% than March 2021.
Most people say there are several factors contributing to inflation, including supply chain issues, the COVID-19 pandemic and increased spending by the federal government.
A majority of those surveyed said they are not satisfied with how the Biden Administration is handling inflation so far.
Of those surveyed, 64% say the administration is “somewhat” to blame for inflation compared to 49% who say the Trump administration is “somewhat” responsible.