More than half of Canadian adults say they have postponed major life choices such as buying a house, moving to a new city or changing careers because of worries about jobs and the economy, a new poll shows.
Survey reveals deepening financial caution
The Harris & Partners poll, conducted with 2,255 respondents, found that 56.6% of participants have delayed a significant decision due to employment or economic concerns. A similar share, 56.1%, report that their outlook on personal finances has worsened compared with a year ago.
These figures arrive as Canada handles a period many economists describe as a technical recession, after GDP fell on an annualised basis for two consecutive quarters. Although recent data indicated a modest rebound in April, lingering doubts over trade policy, investment flows and hiring trends continue to weigh on consumer confidence.
Money worries spill into the workplace
Financial stress is affecting daily work life. 54.8% of those surveyed say money concerns make it hard to stay focused on the job, while 43.0% have taken on overtime, a second job or extra work to keep up with rising living costs.
Career hesitancy is evident elsewhere: 38.4% admit that economic unease has stopped them from pursuing a new role or switching employers, and 37.0% feel less secure in their current position than they once did.
Joshua Harris, chief executive of Harris & Partners, said the pattern of stalled decision‑making signals that broader economic pressures are now shaping everyday choices rather than staying confined to the news cycle.
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“Buying a home, relocating or changing careers are significant milestones, but when people feel uncertain about their finances or job security, it’s understandable that many choose to wait,” he said. “While delaying these decisions can feel the safest option, it can also have long‑term consequences.”
Confidence remains low.
Potential long‑term effects
Delaying home purchases could slow the housing market, which already faces inventory shortages in many regions. Similarly, postponing career moves may limit skill development and reduce labor market fluidity, factors that can impede recovery.
Economists warn that if a sizable portion of the population continues to wait for clearer signals, the economy could experience a lagged rebound. The survey’s timing shows how consumer sentiment can diverge from headline figures.
“When confidence is low, people tend to hold back on spending that drives growth,” Harris added. “That restraint can become self‑reinforcing, making it harder for the economy to pick up speed.”
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