Survey: 61% of Hispanic Americans See American Dream as Achievable, Despite Higher Debt Levels

A new survey conducted by Talker Research between March 6 and 16, 2026, reveals that 61% of Hispanic Americans believe the American Dream remains achievable today, compared with 55% of non-Hispanic Americans. The survey, commissioned by National Debt Relief, also found that 56% of Hispanics believe they will personally achieve the American Dream in their lifetime, versus 51% of non-Hispanics.

The survey sampled 1,000 Census-representative Hispanics, evenly split between Spanish-speaking and non-Spanish-speaking individuals, and 1,000 Census-representative non-Hispanics with internet access.

Respondents defined the modern American Dream primarily as owning a home (41%), being able to afford an unexpected expense without financial strain (35%), being debt-free (34%), not worrying about money day-to-day (32%), and retiring at 65 (30%). Despite this optimism, debt remains a significant issue.

Seventy percent of Americans reported having some type of debt, including 39% with credit card debt, 22% with medical bills debt, and 21% with auto loans.

Hispanic respondents reported higher credit card debt rates at 41%, compared to 36% of non-Hispanics, and an average credit card debt of $11,246 was reported overall. Financial anxiety is prevalent, with 40% of respondents feeling overwhelmed by debt, 38% feeling anxious, and 30% feeling stuck. Among Hispanic Americans, 43% reported feeling weighed down by debt, compared to 37% of non-Hispanics.

Gen X respondents reported the highest levels of feeling overwhelmed by debt at 48%. Financial education access is limited, with 32% of respondents saying they have never had any financial education and 78% reporting limited access to trustworthy, culturally relevant financial guidance. Ten percent of Hispanic Americans said they have no access at all to such guidance.

Many are turning to alternative sources: 65% of Hispanics and 51% of non-Hispanics reported using artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT for financial advice. Usage was highest among Gen Z at 79% and millennials at 69%.