More Than Half of Oregonians Struggle to Pay Bills as Credit Card Delinquencies Hit Highest Level Since 2010

53% of Oregonians reported difficulty paying their bills as  the annualized share of credit card balances nationwide that moved into serious delinquency reached 13.1% in the first quarter of 2026- the highest since 2010

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported that Americans carried $1.25 trillion in credit card debt at the end of March, while 13.1% of credit card balances were at least 90 days overdue in the first quarter of 2026.

Across all types of household debt- which increased by $18 billion in Q1 2026, to $18.8 trillion- 4.8% was in some stage of delinquency.

In Oregon, despite household incomes and net worth rising, many residents are struggling to pay bills and are having to make financial cuts elsewhere to keep up with the rising cost of living.

Rising prices for food, housing, and health care are straining family budgets, as federal tariffs and funding cuts force households to absorb new costs, while disrupting businesses and negatively affecting jobs in the state.

The 2026 Oregon Financial Wellness Scorecard released by the Treasurer’s Office last week indicated that average household debt exceeded the national average, reaching a record $67,520 in 2024.

During the same period, 53% of Oregonians had difficulty paying bills. Financial insecurity- especially in rural communities and among young people, renters, women, and families with children- is becoming more prevalent.

In addition, about 73% reported cutting spending because of rising housing and food costs, and nearly half (48%) of the state’s residents said they could not cover a $500 emergency. Oregon bankruptcy filings also increased by 25% between 2024 and 2025.