US consumer sentiment edges higher in February despite persistent economic worries
Sentiment rose to 57.3 this month as one-year inflation outlooks improved. Consumers remain cautious about the job market and high living costs nationwide.
The University of Michigan Surveys of Consumers reported on February 6, 2026, that the Consumer Sentiment Index rose to 57.3 in early February, up from a final reading of 56.4 in January. This modest improvement in sentiment among consumers in the US 
US exceeded the expectations of economists polled by Reuters, who had forecast a decline to 55.0. The latest reading stands as the highest level recorded for the index since August 2025.
US exceeded the expectations of economists polled by Reuters, who had forecast a decline to 55.0. The latest reading stands as the highest level recorded for the index since August 2025.
