Why are Americans so gloomy about their great economy?

[Johnny2X2X]

37. Real wages have risen since pre pandemic

https://home.treasury.gov/news/featured-stories/the-purchasing-power-of-american-households

People have more purchasing power despite the bout of inflation we had to overcome. So in a very real sense, life is more affordable now than in 2019 across all income groups.

So people will lament gorcery prices but not pay attention to the fact that they're making 16% more than they did in 2019.

Things aren't perfect, but by every economic measure the economy is better and people are better off than they were before Covid hit.