Exclusive | Hope in the American Dream is on the rise in 2025: survey

The American Dream is alive and well, with nearly seven in 10 U.S. adults saying they either believe they’ll achieve its key milestones or already have, a new survey found. 

Thirty percent of the 2,100 Americans surveyed for the 2025 American Dream Snapshot said their family is already living the dream – up from 29% last year. 

Another 39% said the dream is within reach, up from 38% in 2024, while just 30% said it’s unattainable – down from 32% the year before, according to the survey, conducted in May by the Archbridge Institute, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank.

“Freedom of choice in how to live” was ranked the most important facet of the American Dream by 83% of respondents.

A strong family life came in second place, with 80%, followed by the ability to retire comfortably, with 72% calling it essential. 

Home ownership remains key for 52% of Americans, while 45% said a successful career is a must-have, and 34% cited meaningful contributions to society.

Shockingly, wealth came in dead last: just 15% of those surveyed in 2025 said it’s a requirement for achieving the American Dream – down from 19% last year. 

“Our hope and optimism fuel the American Dream, and in turn, the American Dream continues to fuel the experiment that is America – which will soon reach 250 years,” said Gonzalo Schwartz, CEO of the Archbridge Institute and author of the survey, which was published Saturday.

Nearly a quarter of this year’s survey respondents said they are making significant progress toward the dream but need more time to get there.

Meanwhile, 14% said they’ve made strides by starting a business, having a child or buying a home. 

A hopeful 66% of respondents also said they believe most Americans still have faith in the American Dream – a bump up from 62% last year.