A new national survey from United Way Centraide Canada and Léger reveals a troubling reality: financial anxiety is increasing across the country, and Ontario is experiencing some of the steepest increases.
The 2026 Financial Anxiety Index found that nearly two-thirds (63%) of Ontarians say thinking about their finances makes them feel anxious. Almost half (46%) report they could cover their basic expenses for only one month or less if they lost their primary source of income. Food insecurity, housing affordability, and the rising cost of living continue to place significant pressure on individuals and families.
Behind every statistic is a person, a family, a neighbour, or a co-worker making difficult decisions every day.
Many people are finding themselves forced to choose between paying rent, buying groceries, filling prescriptions, or keeping up with utility bills. The effects reach beyond finances, impacting mental health, physical well-being, family relationships, and workplace productivity.
The survey found that:
- 43% of Ontarians report difficulty sleeping because of financial stress.
- 41% are experiencing food insecurity.
- 36% report difficulty concentrating at work or school due to financial pressures.
- 23% have personally experienced poverty, while 36% know someone close to them who has.
What is perhaps most concerning is that financial insecurity is no longer limited to those traditionally considered vulnerable. More and more people who once felt financially stable are finding themselves one unexpected expense away from hardship.
The Importance of Community Support
While these findings paint a challenging picture, they also highlight the critical role community organizations play in helping people navigate difficult times.
The Financial Anxiety Index found that 42% of Ontarians who accessed support from community organizations reported a positive impact on their financial situation, while 37% said these programs helped them better manage financial anxiety.
At United Way Centraide North East Ontario/Nord-est de l'Ontario, we see this impact every day through the programs and services delivered by our community partners. From food security initiatives and housing supports to youth programs, mental health services, and financial empowerment programs, local organizations are helping individuals and families build resilience and regain stability.
Our work is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of the challenges they face.
Building Stronger Communities Together
The findings from the Financial Anxiety Index reinforce the importance of investing in strong community supports and partnerships. As financial pressures continue to grow, so too does the need for coordinated local solutions that help people meet their basic needs while creating pathways toward long-term stability.
Together with our donors, volunteers, community agencies, workplaces, and government partners, United Way is working to address the root causes of poverty and create opportunities for everyone to succeed.
When we invest in our communities, we invest in each other.
To learn more about the findings from the 2026 Financial Anxiety Index, read the full report from United Way Centraide Canada and Léger.