A CNBC analysis indicates that older Americans are more insulated from inflation and housing costs compared to younger households, a divide that could influence the 2026 midterm elections. Moody's chief economist Mark Zandi's analysis shows that from January 2019 to August 2026, older cohorts experienced a cumulative consumer price increase of about 31.5%, while millennials saw 33.3% and Gen Z 32.7%. This disparity is largely due to younger generations spending more on housing; the monthly payment for a 30-year fixed mortgage reached a record 33% of median family income in 2025, up from 26% in 2022. Freddie Mac data shows average 30-year fixed mortgage rates hit a three-year high of 7.4% the week of October 15. The Social Security Administration also announced a 3.6% benefits boost for 2027, protecting older Americans' income from inflation.