The University of Michigan's Consumer Sentiment Index was revised higher to 55.2 in July 2026 from a preliminary reading of 54.0, reaching its highest level since February, before the US-Iran conflict drove gas prices higher. Sentiment improved across all income, age, education, wealth, and political groups. Consumers' five-year outlook for business conditions climbed to a 12-month high, though it remained well below its historical average. Despite the improvement, overall sentiment was still 11% lower than a year earlier, reflecting continued concerns over elevated prices and the lasting effects of several years of high inflation. Year-ahead inflation expectations eased to 4.2% from 4.6% in June, while long-run expectations held steady at 3.3%. Interviews for the survey were conducted between June 23 and July 27.