One in five Americans cut food spending to pay rising electricity bills

A recent survey by Consumer Reports shows about 20% of Americans have reduced their grocery spending to afford increasing electricity bills, CBS News reported.

The survey, which included over 2,000 adults, found roughly 25% of consumers lower heating or air conditioning to uncomfortable levels to save on energy costs.

According to the nonprofit advocacy group, 80% of respondents living in the same home for at least three years reported higher electricity bills, with 28% seeing increases between 20% and 49%.

Federal data cited by CBS News indicates electricity prices in major U.S. cities have risen 14% over the past three years, contributing to an affordability crunch alongside rising gasoline and diesel prices.

Consumer Reports experts noted that vulnerable groups such as retirees and students on fixed incomes face particular challenges, often prioritizing utility payments over food and discretionary spending.

Energy costs are also a significant concern for voters, ranking just behind food and gas prices in battleground states ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.