U.S. adults are increasingly noticing the impact of extreme heat on their lives, according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.
The survey, which included 1,165 adults and was conducted July 23-27, 2026, has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.7 percentage points.
Approximately 90% of Americans say extreme heat has had at least a minor impact on their lives broadly, an increase from 83% two years ago.
Report extreme heat has had at least a minor impact on their lives
Rising costs and lifestyle disruptions
Extreme heat is affecting household finances, with about 8 in 10 Americans stating their electricity bills have seen a major or minor impact over the last year.
In the U.S. Midwest, the number of people reporting a major impact on electricity bills rose to 44%, up from 29% two years ago.
I feel like my utility costs probably doubled in the last three or four years.
Daily routines and leisure are also affected, as around 7 in 10 Americans report major or minor impacts on family outdoor activities. Additionally, about 4 in 10 say extreme heat has impacted their travel or vacation plans.
Half of the respondents in the poll said their sleep has faced a major or minor impact from extreme heat in the last year.
Climate perceptions and environmental trends
Regarding climate change, about 66% of Americans believe it is happening, a decline from 73% recorded in September 2025. Meanwhile, approximately 17% say they are unsure if it is occurring, and 15% say it is not happening.
