Nearly 1 in 4 Americans want CEOs to "stop being greedy," survey finds

A significant portion of Americans are urging corporate leaders to address economic hardships, with nearly a quarter of those surveyed wanting CEOs to "stop being greedy" and make goods more affordable. The findings stem from a joint survey by opinion research firm Echelon Insights and global advisory firm Brunswick Group.

Affordability emerged as the primary concern for 41% of respondents. Specifically, 23% of those polled highlighted the high cost of living and called for companies to lower prices. Another 23% believe executives should share their wealth, accept lower earnings, and curb excessive compensation.

These sentiments align with broader economic data. In 2025, the average compensation package for CEOs of S&P 500 companies reached $17.7 million, marking a 6% increase from the previous year, according to the Associated Press. In contrast, the typical full-time U.S. worker earned $64,220 annually as of early 2026, a 3.4% rise from the year prior, based on government labor data cited by Fidelity Investments.

Other messages Americans conveyed to CEOs include calls to pay employees more fairly (13%), a sentiment that executives are disconnected from ordinary life (12%), and a plea for better treatment of employees (12%). Additionally, 7% urged prioritizing American jobs over outsourcing or replacement by AI, and 5% asked for greater community support.

A separate study by Primerica found that 71% of Americans feel their income isn't keeping pace with the rising cost of living. Food costs alone have increased over 20% since 2022, meaning a $100 grocery bill from four years ago would now cost around $120. "The challenge today is that many families feel they are doing everything right but still struggle to get ahead as rising costs continue to outpace their progress," stated Primerica CEO Glenn Williams.

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The challenge today is that many families feel they are doing everything right but still struggle to get ahead as rising costs continue to outpace their progress.