47% of Prince George's residents report thriving in new economic survey

The Greater Washington Community Foundation released a report in September 2026 showing that only 47% of Prince George’s County residents described themselves as thriving. This figure marked the lowest percentage among local jurisdictions surveyed, which included Montgomery, Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun counties.

The survey, conducted in partnership with Gallup, found that 54% of Prince George’s residents believe they are struggling or suffering. This represents the highest total percentage of such feelings in the region. The data indicates that residents face economic anxiety that distinguishes the county from its neighbors in the capital region.

Specific financial stress is evident in the survey results. Forty-five percent of the 435 Prince George’s residents who responded said they feared they would not be able to pay their rent or mortgage. This was the highest mark across the region and the only jurisdiction where this anxiety has not eased since the 2023 survey. Additionally, 28% of respondents reported they were unable to afford food this year, a figure 11 points higher than the regional average.

Access to social services has also shifted. Twenty-three percent of respondents were first-time users of social services, such as food banks or pantries, which is the highest mark in the region. A separate September report from the Capital Area Food Bank found that 56% of Prince George’s residents face food insecurity. The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines this condition as a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life.

Despite these challenges, the survey found that residents maintain a belief in their ability to affect change. Twenty-eight percent of respondents said they have no influence over local government decision-making, which was the lowest rate of such sentiment in the region. Seventeen percent said they have moderate or great influence. Tonia Wellons, the foundation’s CEO, attributed this outlook to the county’s relative affordability and the proximity of the federal sector.

County officials are responding to these findings. Last week, Prince George’s County Council members were briefed on the feasibility of opening a county-owned grocery store to supplement existing programs like free food pantries at county libraries. The survey identified federal policies and related job cuts as the largest strain on well-being. Wellons noted that the region has historically been protected from economic shock by the strength of the federal sector, but that protection is no longer present.

The survey results arrive as voters prepare for Election Day. The foundation’s survey, first published in 2017, is conducted every three years. Respondents expressed goals for local leaders including more investment in youth programs, healthcare, and job training. Wellons acknowledged that feelings toward county leadership have deteriorated since the report’s release due to increased scrutiny of the Council’s grant-funding process.