Americans continue to grapple with tight budgets that push some toward shoplifting basic goods.

A LendingTree survey of 2,000 adults shows 30% admitted to shoplifting in the past year.

That’s an increase from 24% in 2024.

Ninety percent of those who stole pointed to cost concerns and wider economic conditions as the main drivers.

Participants most often took food and nonalcoholic drinks, followed by clothing and hygiene items, with some also grabbing toys, electronics or school supplies.

Many viewed large chains as easier targets, with nearly half naming Walmart as the simplest option, ahead of Family Dollar, Amazon Fresh, and Kroger.

Says LendingTree chief consumer finance analyst Matt Schulz,

“These findings are concerning because they suggest many people aren’t shoplifting for thrills or resale, but because they feel squeezed by basic affordability challenges.

That doesn’t excuse shoplifting, but it does highlight how financially vulnerable many consumers are.

When people are risking arrest or fines to obtain food, hygiene products or other essentials, it suggests inflation and stagnant cash flow may push some households toward desperate choices.”

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