A growing number of Americans—particularly younger adults—are prioritising pets over parenthood, with many reshaping their finances and even future plans around their animals, according to a new survey by The Harris Poll.
The 2026 State of Pets report found that 40% of Americans would choose pets over children if they had to decide between the two, while 55% of Gen Z and Millennials said they had considered building a life around pets instead of having children.
The survey also found that emotional bonds with pets continue to deepen. Among pet owners, 83% agreed with the statement, “My pet(s) is/are like my own child.”
Explaining why many Americans would choose pets over children, the report found that 45% said they were “not in the right part of my life to take care of a child,” while 35% believed pets are easier to care for and 32% said they are less of a financial strain than children.
Despite seeing pets as a more affordable alternative to raising children, many owners are struggling with the rising cost of pet care.
According to the survey, 44% of pet owners agreed that “the cost of living today makes me worry about whether I can continue to afford the life my pet deserves,” with concern rising to 54% among Gen Z and Millennials.
To meet those costs, many owners are sacrificing their own spending. The survey found 56% cook at home more instead of ordering takeout, 41% switch to cheaper grocery brands, and 39% cut back on personal comfort purchases to afford expenses for their pets.
Among younger pet owners, financial sacrifices are even greater. Nearly three in ten (29%) Gen Z and Millennial pet owners agreed, “I am facing debt as a result of expenses related to my pet(s).”
The report also highlighted the growing emotional role pets play in people’s lives. Nearly half (49%) of single pet owners agreed with the statement, “I have given up on finding a romantic partner and rely on my pet(s) for companionship,” while 78% said not treating pets like family is “a red flag” when forming close relationships.
Even advances in artificial intelligence are unlikely to replace traditional pet ownership. Eighty-six per cent of pet owners agreed that “AI pets could never replace the emotional bond that owners have with real live pets.”
As pet ownership becomes more central to people’s lives, many owners also want governments to provide greater support. Nearly seven in ten (68%) said pet owners should receive tax breaks for food and medical expenses similar to child-related deductions, while 69% said they would adopt their pet as a legal dependent if it were possible.
The online survey was conducted by The Harris Poll between April 24 and 26, 2026, among 2,070 U.S. adults, including 1,625 pet owners, and is nationally representative of the U.S. adult population.
