People often enter a new year with a sense of optimism, a mindset that researchers have dubbed the “fresh start effect.” Unlike birthdays, new jobs or other time markers, the new year is a universal landmark signaling an interruption in daily life and a positive time to make a change.
After a year marred by economic uncertainty, tariffs, rising debt and persistent inflation, Americans are looking for markers that could predict a better 2026. Money experts spotlighted six trends that could boost your wealth this year.
1. Falling Gas Prices
Vince Stanzione, CEO and founder at First Information and author of “The Millionaire Dropout,” pointed to falling gas prices as one of the biggest trends of the year. “Already, average gas prices are under $3 a gallon, and we could see $2 by November 2026,” he said, pointing out that this drop would coincide with midterm elections.
“Even if you’re not a big driver, lower gas prices will help bring down other costs,” he said.
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2. Falling Insurance Rates
After wildfires, flooding and other major climate events in 2025, home insurance rates are starting to stabilize, experts said. Technology is enabling better risk management, and homeowners are becoming more proactive about preventing losses.
“Falling insurance prices are definitely a positive,” said Melanie Musson, finance expert at Quote.com.
“Insurance rates and household costs both appear to be moderating after several years of increases,” said Mario Serralta, founding lawyer at Abogado Mario/Mario Serralta & Associates.
3. Lower Interest Rates May Boost Budgets
Stanzione said that the new Federal Reserve chairman to be appointed in May 2026 could reduce interest rates further. “That, too, will filter down into all parts of the economy,” he said.
Musson said she doesn’t see lower interest rates as making a significant difference in most families’ budgets but noted that “any relief in interest rates is a plus.”
Lower interest rates combined with reduced insurance costs and fuel savings could give middle-class families breathing room in 2026. “A small savings in insurance combined with other small changes like lower interest rates will combine to provide more breathing room for building savings and wealth,” she said.
4. Real Estate Opportunities
Falling interest rates may help middle-class families get into homes for the first time and even present investment opportunities.
“With the help of relatively stable interest rates, many middle-class families can concentrate on purchasing or holding onto homes that build long-term equity,” Serralta said. “Even marginal improvements in borrowing opportunities, prompted by policy signals sent by the Federal Reserve, can bring meaningful reductions to monthly expenses when combined with disciplined budgeting.”
5. Continued Growth of Side Gigs and Business Opportunities
Serralta pointed out that lower interest rates could provide passive real estate income opportunities in rentable properties. Whether homeowners turn to real estate investing or embrace other income possibilities, 2026 should give the middle class ample avenues to build wealth, according to experts.
“I think a lot of people are going to continue working side gigs to free up room in their budgets for wealth building instead of living paycheck to paycheck,” Musson said. She added that passive income is still one of the best ways to build wealth, but it’s often more difficult to find passive options.
Serralta said he believes we will see people turning their existing skills into money through consulting, remote professional services or digital businesses with minimal startup costs.
“If you have a good business plan, 2026 is a good year to implement it,” Musson agreed.
6. Technology That Helps Families Save Wisely
While lower interest rates might make mortgages or car loans more affordable, they won’t be positive for everyone. “If you have cash savings, look to lock in higher rates while you can,” Stanzione said.
High-yield online savings accounts and apps that help you track your money can help. “Regardless of where the Fed sets its overnight rate, it’s wise to make sure you’re always earning the highest yield on your cash,” said Gary Zimmerman, CEO of cash management service Max.
To do so, make sure you’re actively managing your money. “Trillions of dollars sit in non-interest-bearing or low-yielding accounts, costing Americans more than $150 billion of foregone interest income each year,” he explained. “Just as many money managers actively manage equities, you can actively manage your cash.”
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 6 Money Trends That Could Boost Your Income and Wealth in 2026
