A survey conducted by Northwestern Mutual has found that 27% of San Diegans believe cryptocurrencies can help them catch up financially. The study, part of the 2026 Planning & Progress Study, surveyed thousands of people across the U.S. to learn what they're worried about financially and how they're responding. The report also revealed that San Dieans plan to cut discretionary spending and explore riskier ways to help their balances grow. In San Diego, the local interest in cryptocurrencies was higher than the national average, while 73% of respondents said they're taking more risks to catch up. The survey also found that a greater percentage of people expect the US economy to weaken in 2026 than to improve.