Americans are cutting back on their non-essential spending, according to a new survey by investing company Scottrade, Inc. The survey found that saving for retirement is becoming important, so people are doing more comparison shopping, using coupons and cutting back on things like new clothes and entertainment.

"Americans are simply looking for ways to save more and spend less," said Kim Wells, Scottrade's executive director of product development and chief marketing officer. "They are feeling a financial pinch in more areas of their daily routine – from filling their gas tanks to heating their homes. These behaviors demonstrate that people are more mindful of their financial situations."

Uncertainty about future circumstances is compelling nearly all Americans to take action, according to the sixth annual survey of consumer attitudes and behaviors regarding retirement and retirement planning.