Inflation Drives More Americans to Shoplifting as Labor Force Participation Hits Record Low
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two newly released reports point to growing financial stress across the United States, highlighting the economic challenges facing millions of Americans as inflation continues to strain household budgets and labor force participation falls to historic lows.
According to a CBS News report citing a LendingTree survey, 30% of Americans admitted to shoplifting in 2026, a significant increase from 24% in 2024. Nearly 90% of respondents who acknowledged stealing said rising prices, inflation, and financial hardship were among the primary reasons behind their actions. The survey found that most thefts involved everyday necessities, including food, clothing, and personal hygiene products, rather than luxury goods.
The report also noted that major retail chains such as Walmart, Family Dollar, Amazon Fresh, and Kroger were among the stores most frequently identified by respondents as targets for shoplifting.
Meanwhile, a separate report by the New York Post, citing data from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, revealed that the number of Americans not in the labor force (NILF) reached a record 105.8 million in June 2026. The category includes retirees, students, people with disabilities, and others who are not actively employed or seeking work.
Economists, however, have expressed particular concern over the growing number of working-age adults—especially men—who have left the workforce. Labor economist Nicholas Eberstadt warned that the long-term decline in labor force participation among prime-age men represents a significant economic challenge, even as women’s participation has helped support overall employment levels.
While retirees account for the largest share of those outside the workforce, millions of Americans have also stopped looking for jobs because they are discouraged or are dealing with long-term illness or disability.
Together, the two reports suggest that persistent inflation, rising living costs, and changing labor market trends are placing increasing pressure on American households. Economists say addressing these challenges will require policies that not only curb inflation but also encourage greater workforce participation and improve long-term economic security for working families.
