Life for American families today is different—and often far more challenging—than it was 20 years ago. The struggles that define modern family life have evolved, becoming more complex and more difficult to navigate. From financial pressures and job instability to rising costs and the mental load of balancing work and home life, today's American family is facing a steeper uphill battle than ever before.
Twenty years ago, the American Dream felt more within reach for many families. While there were certainly struggles then, wages often kept better pace with the cost of living, and many households could achieve a sense of security with a stable job, an affordable home, and access to basic necessities. College costs, healthcare, and childcare were expensive, but they weren't as daunting as they are now. Fast forward to today, and the reality for many families is very different.