Canadians Optimistic for 2026: New Year Poll Reveals Hopes for More Money and Better Health
As Canada welcomes 2026, a new poll shows that Canadians are generally optimistic about the year ahead, with many expressing hopes for improved financial situations and better health. The survey, conducted in late 2025, reflects what residents across the country are wishing for as they look forward to a new year of possibilities and challenges. X (formerly Twitter)
Overview of the Poll
-
The poll, conducted by Ipsos, found that a majority of Canadians feel hopeful and optimistic about 2026, despite economic and social uncertainties. X (formerly Twitter)
-
Respondents were asked about their top wishes for the year, including expectations for income, health, personal lives, and broader national issues. X (formerly Twitter)
-
The survey reflects the views of a diverse group of Canadians across age groups, socioeconomic backgrounds, and regions. X (formerly Twitter)
Top Wishes for the New Year
When asked about their biggest hopes for 2026, respondents highlighted several priorities:
-
More money: A significant share of Canadians said improving their personal financial situation is their top wish for the new year. Research Co.
-
Better health: Many also pointed to health and well-being as a key priority, especially after years marked by public health concerns and pressures on the healthcare system. Research Co.
-
Quality of life: Other common aspirations included more time with family and friends, greater work-life balance, and increased time for personal interests. Research Co.
Note: A separate poll from Research Co. similarly found that 37 per cent of Canadians placed more money at the top of their wish list for 2026, while 30 per cent prioritized more health, indicating consistent trends in national sentiment. Research Co.
Sentiment About 2025 and Hopes for 2026
The Ipsos poll also explored how Canadians evaluated the past year and what they expect going forward:
-
Many Canadians reported that they felt 2025 was challenging financially, with fewer people saying they were able to save as much as they hoped. X (formerly Twitter)
-
Despite these concerns, a solid majority expressed general optimism for 2026, hoping for improvements in their personal lives and financial security. X (formerly Twitter)
-
While optimism is high, some respondents also conveyed realistic expectations, noting challenges like housing affordability and rising costs that could limit gains in the coming year. Global News
Generational Differences in Wishes
A more detailed breakdown from a related survey highlights that different age groups prioritize different New Year wishes:
-
Younger generations, such as Millennials and Generation Z, are more likely to emphasize financial improvements as their top hope for 2026. Research Co.
-
Older Canadians, including Baby Boomers and Generation X, tend to focus more on health and well-being, reflecting generational differences in life stage and priorities. Research Co.
What These Wishes Reveal
The poll’s results offer insights into broader trends in Canadian public sentiment:
-
Economic concerns remain significant: While many Canadians are optimistic, financial stability and income growth remain powerful motivators for people entering the new year.
-
Health continues to be a priority: After ongoing discussions about the healthcare system and public health challenges, Canadians are focused on improving their physical and mental well-being. Learn more about Canada’s healthcare landscape and ongoing reforms here. Wikipedia
-
Social connections matter: Wishes for more time with loved ones and community engagement reflect a growing emphasis on overall life satisfaction and personal relationships as core elements of well-being.
Broader Implications for 2026
These New Year wishes suggest that Canadians are entering 2026 with a blend of cautious optimism and practical goals:
-
Hopes for better financial circumstances may influence consumer behaviour, savings, and spending trends throughout the year.
-
A focus on improved health could heighten interest in healthcare access, wellness initiatives, and lifestyle changes.
-
Continued emphasis on quality of life may shape personal, professional, and community decisions in the months ahead.
Overall, the poll paints a picture of a nation ready to move forward — carrying lessons from recent years and looking ahead with renewed confidence and clear aspirations.