local
Americans owe $1.40 for every dollar earned, new analysis finds
By Rachel DePompa at Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News
· July 9, 2026
· 2 min read
(InvestigateTV) — The average American carries $63,000 in debt while earning just $45,000 a year, according to a new analysis by ConsumerAffairs — meaning for every dollar earned, roughly $1.40 is owed.The report found that gap leaves many families with little financial cushion in the event of an...
Key takeaway “Serious delinquency is when you’re 90 days or more past due on your payments,” Edens said.
Why this matters in The Atlanta
In Atlanta , where the cost of living continues to rise, the average American's debt burden of $1.40 owed for every dollar earned is particularly concerning. With many residents already struggling to make ends meet, the risk of serious delinquency and its consequences, such as foreclosure and credit score damage, is a pressing issue. The fact that neighboring states like Louisiana and Mississippi are among those with high delinquency rates suggests that the regional economy may be contributing to the financial strain. As Atlantans navigate their own financial challenges, it's crucial to consider the local resources available for managing debt, such as credit counseling services and financial assistance programs. By understanding the full scope of personal debt and exploring options like debt consolidation and refinancing, Atlanta residents can take the first steps towards getting back on track and building a more stable financial future.
About this story
Original reporting by Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News . The Atlanta surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 9, 2026 ·
Source: Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? (InvestigateTV) — The average American carries $63,000 in debt while earning just $45,000 a year, according to a new analysis by ConsumerAffairs — meaning for every dollar earned, roughly $1.40 is owed.The report found that gap leaves many families with little financial cushion in the event of an...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 9, 2026 by Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News and curated for The Atlanta readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Rachel DePompa at Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News. To learn more about how The Atlanta selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Atlanta, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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