Watch CBS News

State Consumer Confidence Hits Five Year High

TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) – Have you been feeling a little better about your life and future lately?

You're not alone.

The state's consumer confidence is at a five-year high, according to researchers at the University of Florida.

They said Tuesday that the November election is a likely factor. That's because President Barack Obama's supporters are more optimistic than those backing challenger Mitt Romney.

The monthly index is up three points in September to 79 on a scale of 2 to 150. It's benchmarked at 100 points in 1966.

September's index is the highest since October 2007 prior to the Great Recession.

The Bureau of Economic and Business Research on the Gainesville campus surveyed 419 people representing a demographic cross-section of Florida from Sept. 12 through Sept. 20.

The survey showed increases in all five components used to compile the index. That includes whether Floridians think they are better off than a year ago.

(TM and © Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.