NEW YORK (WRGB) — The New York State Index of Consumer Sentiment has risen to 71.9, marking a 2.8-point increase from the first quarter of 2025, according to the latest poll by the Siena College Research Institute (SCRI). Despite this rise, New York’s overall consumer sentiment remains below the breakeven point of balanced optimism and pessimism, although it is 11.2 points above the national index of 60.7.
Travis Brodbeck, SCRI’s Associate Director of Data Management, said,
In both New York and nationally, sentiment is improving—but it still remains below the threshold where optimism outweighs pessimism.
The report highlights that New York’s current index increased by 4.9 points to 71.6, while the future index rose by 1.4 points, moving from 70.6 last quarter to 72.0. Nationally, the consumer sentiment index saw a 3.7-point increase.
For the third consecutive quarter, Republicans in New York continue to be more optimistic compared to New York Democrats,” Brodbeck said. “Historically, consumers are more optimistic about the future economy than the present, with future expectations averaging 8 points higher since 2020. This quarter, the gap closed to a five-year low of 0.4 points, meaning future optimism is now barely higher than present positivity.
Buying plans for consumer electronics saw the most significant increase, rising 2.0 points to 47.0%, while home buying plans also increased to 10.9%. However, vehicle buying plans declined to 17.8%, and major home improvement plans edged down to 23.6%. Buying plans for furniture remained unchanged at 30.2%.
Gasoline prices continue to impact New Yorkers, with 47% reporting a serious financial impact, a 1% decrease from last quarter. Additionally, 77% of state residents said grocery spending is having a serious impact on their finances, down from 79% last quarter.
As the President’s agenda moves through Congress and trade deals are being actively negotiated, consumers’ buying behaviors are mostly unchanged,” Brodbeck said. “With so much change being discussed in the macroeconomy, consumers may be taking a wait and see approach when making purchasing decisions.
Essential monthly expenses continue to weigh heavily on New Yorkers, with 72% reporting housing costs as a serious financial impact, up from 69% last quarter. Utility costs are affecting 66% of residents, and 53% report streaming and entertainment services as a financial strain. Cell phone costs are a burden for 38% of New Yorkers, up from 36%.
Nearly half of New Yorkers, 49%, say they are seriously impacted by housing, utilities, and food expenses, while 17% report that all six key monthly expenses—food, gas, housing, utilities, entertainment, and cell phones—are weighing heavily on their finances.
This Siena College Poll was conducted June 25 – July 2, 2025, among 921 New York State Residents.