Consumer sentiment falls to 46.3 in preliminary October survey

What the survey found

The University of Michigan’s preliminary October consumer-sentiment index fell to 46.3 from September’s 48.1, according to results released October 9. The reading was 3.7% lower than the previous month and 13.6% below October 2025. [1][4]

The current-conditions index dropped to 44.7 from 50.9. The expectations index increased to 47.3 from 46.3. Survey director Joanne Hsu said buying conditions for major durable goods weakened amid high prices and borrowing costs. [3][4]

Inflation expectations rise

Respondents expected prices to rise 4.7% over the next year, up from 4.6% in September. Expected inflation over the next five years increased to 3.5% from 3.4%. [2]

These are preliminary survey results. The university schedules its final October release for October 23 at 10 a.m. Eastern. [3]

Sources

• [1] University of Michigan · Monthly consumer-sentiment index table ↗Source · PDF
• [2] University of Michigan · Price-expectations table ↗Source · PDF
• [3] University of Michigan · Preliminary October results and release schedule ↗Source
• [4] ABA Banking Journal · Consumer sentiment falls in October · October 9, 2026 ↗Source