Canadians Hopeful for 2026 But Pessimistic on Key Issues

UPDATE: A new Ipsos poll reveals that while Canadians are feeling hopeful about 2026, they are increasingly pessimistic about resolving critical issues at home and abroad. Conducted from December 8 to 15, 2025, the survey of 1,502 Canadians indicates a significant disconnect between optimism for the future and concerns about job security, financial stability, and public health care.

Despite challenges, 62% of Canadians surveyed expressed optimism for the upcoming year, believing it will improve compared to 2025. Yet, less than half (only 42%) felt they saved enough money in the past year, highlighting financial worries that persist for many. “I think Canadians are hoping that [2026] will be better because quite frankly, it can’t get much worse,” said Ipsos CEO Darrell Bricker.

The poll shows that 70% of Canadians fear a future recession, though this figure has decreased by four points since three years ago. Concerns over job security are also notable, with 41% of respondents feeling more fearful than they did in 2022, a stark increase of 11 points.

When reflecting on personal well-being, 75% of participants reported feeling good about their health, maintaining the same percentage as three years ago. However, only 56% were satisfied with their romantic lives, a decline from previous years.

Looking ahead, 59% of Canadians are hopeful their financial conditions will improve, but only 29% believe they will be able to purchase a home, and a mere 22% expect grocery prices to decrease. These sentiments mirror broader dissatisfaction with political and global issues, as only one-third of respondents believe the Canada-U.S. trade war will be resolved or that lasting peace will emerge in Ukraine and Gaza.

Despite these anxieties, Prime Minister Mark Carney maintains a job approval rating of 55%, significantly higher than his party’s overall ratings. Bricker notes that Canadians seem confident in Carney’s ability to manage the challenges ahead, stating, “There’s no buyer’s regret that we’re seeing in the electorate right now about Mark Carney.”

As 2026 approaches, Bricker warns that it could be one of the most consequential years in Canadian history. “Canadians are saying, ‘We think we will have the right leadership in place, that we’ve gone through the worst of this,’” he added, emphasizing the importance of national leadership during these turbulent times.

The Ipsos poll results serve as a crucial barometer of public sentiment, revealing a complex mix of hope and apprehension among Canadians as they brace for the upcoming year. As the nation navigates these challenges, all eyes will be on the government’s response to the pressing issues that matter most to Canadians.

This survey has a credibility interval of ± 3.1 percentage points, ensuring its reliability in reflecting the views of the Canadian population. With these findings, Canadians can expect a year filled with significant developments that will shape their lives and the country’s future.