What Does the American Dream Mean to You? Newsweek Readers Respond
Summary
Newsweek created an American Dream Index that ranks all U.S. ZIP codes based on opportunities for people to improve their lives. They asked readers what the American Dream means to them and if they believe it is still alive. Readers shared a mix of hopeful, critical, and personal views about the state of the American Dream today.Key Facts
- Newsweek scored 33,772 U.S. ZIP codes from 0 to 100 on six parts of opportunity, focusing on whether people can move up in life.
- States like North Dakota, Utah, and Minnesota scored highest, while some wealthy cities scored lower due to high housing costs.
- Readers’ definitions of the American Dream varied, including having a happy life, equal rights, and economic success through hard work.
- Some readers feel the Dream is alive, rooted in freedom and personal hope.
- Others believe the Dream is fading, especially for people stuck in low-paying jobs or facing educational barriers.
- Readers noted generational differences, with older generations having more access to homeownership and jobs.
- Economic struggle and inequality were mentioned as challenges to the American Dream in places like Detroit.
- Newsweek provides an online tool for people to explore their ZIP code’s score and compare areas.
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