Nearly two-thirds of French citizens say that inflation is significantly affecting their financial situation, with households estimating they would need an additional 512 euros per month to live comfortably. Although inflation in 2025 averaged just 0.9%, easing some concerns, consumer prices have risen again, reaching 2.4% in August 2026. This has brought purchasing power back to the forefront of public concern, with 42% of respondents citing it as their main issue this year, a 4-point increase from the previous year. This makes purchasing power the top concern, closely followed by health and security issues, which have seen a slight decline in public concern. A significant majority of respondents—60%—believe inflation is increasing in 2026, a 26-point rise compared to the previous year. Similarly, 61% say inflation has a major impact on their financial situation, up 27 points from last year. Only 9% believe inflation is slowing down, a drop of 14 points. Financial struggles are evident, with 43% of respondents able to save money, down 4 points from last year. Meanwhile, 28% manage to balance their budgets and 22% face financial difficulty. Nearly 40% of respondents report a monthly negative balance, averaging 383 euros, and 28% have ongoing consumer loans. If given an additional 512 euros per month, 44% of the French would use it for food, 26% for leisure, and 21% for fuel. Mathieu Escarpit, marketing director of Cofidis France, notes that while 2025 saw a brief period of calm, the 2026 survey confirms that concerns about purchasing power remain strong. Two-thirds of the French believe their purchasing power has declined over the past decade, with 30% describing it as "low." Looking ahead, 54% expect their purchasing power to decrease further, and many are adjusting their spending habits accordingly. More than half of respondents are cutting back on non-essential spending, with 32% considering delaying projects and 27% avoiding weekend trips or holidays. Six out of ten expect to cut back further, and 73% do not believe prices will stabilize soon. Additionally, 78% do not anticipate an improvement in the country's financial situation. Despite these challenges, just over half of the French are still planning significant expenses within the next year, though they are doing so with more caution and planning. The survey, conducted online from May 29 to June 8, 2026, involved 1,009 French citizens aged 18 and over, representing the general population.