Optimism and Pessimism: A Closer Look at America’s Outlook by Region

Mon Nov 17 2025 17:13:22 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A recent survey reveals a growing divide in optimism about the future of America, with rural residents expressing hope while urban dwellers show increasing pessimism, reflecting broader concerns around economic conditions and community issues.

According to a new survey from the American Communities Project, rural America is feeling more optimistic about the future, with 6 in 10 expressing hope, a notable rise from previous years. In contrast, major cities report an increase in pessimism, particularly among residents concerned about economic conditions and social issues. Crime and gun violence are becoming less of a priority, while inflation remains a uniting concern. The survey highlights significant shifts in outlook based on demographics and geography.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A new survey by the American Communities Project reveals a growing gap in outlook between urban and rural residents in America. While urban areas show increased pessimism about the future, rural regions are finding a newfound optimism.

Despite President Trump’s assertions regarding rampant urban crime, residents of large cities are increasingly less concerned about violence. This change in sentiment is detailed in the ACP/Ipsos survey, which categorized the nation into different community types, providing nuanced insights based on various demographic factors.

Overall, the survey reflects a common worry about rising household costs, with inflation emerging as a universal concern among all demographic groups. Dante Chinni, founder of the American Communities Project, noted that economic anxiety transcends geographical boundaries.

Rural Areas Show Rising Hope Amidst Financial Concerns

Residents in rural America express a notable increase in hope for the future, with around 60% of those in Rural Middle America feeling optimistic—an increase from 43% last year. Carl Gruber, a disabled resident of Newark, Ohio, supports Trump and believes that progress on economic issues will lead to lower prices.

Urban Dwellers Growing More Cautious

Conversely, only 45% of those living in big cities reported feeling hopeful, a drop from 55% in the previous year. Aging residents like Robert Engel from San Antonio are especially worried about future conditions, not just economically but also concerning democracy and societal polarization.

Crime Less of a Concern in Urban Areas

While Trump has suggested that urban crime is out of control, data from the survey indicates that many city residents cite other issues like healthcare and immigration as more pressing concerns than crime.

Hispanic Communities Facing Higher Levels of Pessimism

Interestingly, residents in heavily Hispanic areas are particularly feeling the weight of uncertainty, with optimism dropping significantly from 78% to 58% over the past year. Local resident Carmen Maldonado articulates fears regarding anti-Hispanic sentiments fueled by political narratives, leading to widespread anxiety about the future.

As these sentiments continue to evolve, the overall takeaway from the survey indicates a stark division in perspectives across America's rural and urban landscapes, highlighting the importance of localized community issues in shaping national attitudes.