The State of Credit Card Debt in 2025
After a few tough years of inflation, rising rent, and higher borrowing costs, Americans have leaned harder than ever on credit cards to fill the gaps. The Federal Reserve’s latest data shows that total credit card balances have surged since 2021 — and they’re not slowing down.
Even those who were once careful about keeping balances low have started to rely on revolving credit just to keep up with everyday life. Groceries. Gas. Car repairs. Nothing extraordinary — just the basics that now cost a whole lot more.
So when we talk about debt, it’s not just about financial mistakes. It’s about survival and adaptation in a world where prices keep climbing but paychecks don’t always follow.