Americans Continue Frugal Living

-- Home Textiles Today, 5/10/2010 12:00:00 AM

Columbus, Ohio —

Nearly three-quarters of Americans claim to be living more simply than they did before the recession, according to a new survey by BigResearch.

The latest American Pulse survey of more than 5,000 found 74.1% in that camp. A plurality (45.2%) reported being happier now that they're spending less, although 39.4% say they aren't. Another 15.3% aren't sure.

Asked what “luxury” means in light of the current economy, 36.2% it meant being able to pay the bills on time, while 29.6% said it meant the ability to buy at a high-end store instead of a department store. Another 17.9% said it meant buying from a department store rather than a discounter, and 16.3% considered luxury as buying something at a discounter other than necessities.