In the News

August 2026 Consumer Omnibus

In this quarter's consumer omnibus, we asked adults nationwide about America's global image, everyday etiquette and the value of a college degree.


 Americans are far more likely to say they bring their best self to routine errands than to travel. 

  •  Close to 9 in 10 Americans or 85% say they are always or usually their best self at restaurants, compared to just 62% while driving in traffic and 56% going through the airport. 

  •  When it comes to America's global image, more Americans care about the direct experiences foreign visitors have here (69%) than about the cultural exports usually credited with shaping the country's reputation abroad, like movies and TV (49%) or sports (49%). 

  •  More Americans say a 4-year college degree is not worth the cost for most students today (51%) than say it is (39%). Trade school is seen as the most useful path to a successful career (87% call it very or somewhat useful), ahead of a four-year degree (74%). 

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