Today we released the 2026 Financial Wellness Scorecard. The annual Financial Wellness Scorecard provides a snapshot of how Oregonians are faring financially. 

Every Oregonian should have the opportunity to be financially fit and realize their dreams for themselves and their families. But today, too many Oregonians are facing increasing financial pressure as the cost of living rises and household stress grows. That’s a key finding from the 2026 Financial Wellness Scorecard (which is based on data from a dozen sources, including a 2025 survey of Oregonians). 

In Oregon, we fare better than many states on key financial measures.  

• Household income and net worth are rising.  
• More people are saving for retirement, their children’s education, and emergencies. 
• More Oregonians are getting empowered with financial education.  

However, this year’s data also reflect the shocks that larger economic forces and chaotic federal policies are having on the lives of Oregonians.  Rising prices for food, housing, and health care have strained family budgets. Federal tariffs and funding cuts have forced households to absorb new costs, disrupted businesses, and hurt jobs in Oregon. 

Here are some of the ways Oregonians are feeling the impact of national economic strains:

• 73% of Oregonians have been forced to cut back on other expenses to pay for rising housing and food costs.
• 53% of Oregonians had trouble paying bills in 2025.
• Bankruptcy filings jumped 25% from the previous year.

Financial insecurity is becoming more common, particularly in rural communities and among young people, renters, women, and families with children. 

As Oregon’s constitutional financial officer - as well as a medical doctor - I know that financial fitness is not only vital to a person’s quality of life, but also to their mental, emotional, and physical health. At the Oregon State Treasury, we publish the Financial Wellness Scorecard so people and policy makers have data they can use to enhance the financial fitness of all Oregonians.  

That’s why I am pleased we added a new feature to the 2026 Scorecard: A Financial Fitness Check-Up. The Check-Up suggests a few simple actions to strengthen your financial resilience, protection, and education.  

Small steps lead to big changes. Oregonians work hard, but the data show that many people are finding it harder to get ahead and save. If that’s you, you’re not alone. But there are community partners who can connect you with information, tools, and resources to make the changes you want to see in your financial life.  

Together, we can give more Oregonians the power to be financially fit and reach their goals.

 - Elizabeth Steiner, MD, Oregon State Treasurer