2025 Canadian Poverty and Socioeconomic Analysis reveals growing anxiety over finances, jobs and essential needs
A new national report from The Salvation Army shows that a growing number of Canadians are struggling to stay afloat, with fewer people confident in their financial future and increasing reliance on essential support services.
The Salvation Army surveyed more than 1,500 Canadians to produce the 2025 Canadian Poverty and Socioeconomic Analysis to better understand their attitudes, behaviours and experiences on issues such as the availability of housing and food, general affordability and related health outcomes. As the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in Canada, this data helps The Salvation Army to quantify the demand for ongoing social services provided and allows the organization to better serve those in need.
The report finds that 46% of respondents feel optimistic about their finances over the next two years, down from 51% in 2024. At the same time, concern about job security has more than doubled, rising to 22% in 2025 from 10% in 2024.
“We’re seeing a clear erosion of financial stability for Canadians,” says Glenn van Gulik, spokesperson for The Salvation Army. “People who were once getting by are now facing real hardship, and they’re turning to us for help.”
Housing and Healthcare Remain Top Concerns, But Economic Stress Is Catching Up
For the second consecutive year, housing and healthcare remain the top concerns among Canadians. However, the report highlights a growing wave of economic anxiety, driven by rising costs and shrinking margins.
“Many of the people walking through our doors never expected to need help,” says van Gulik. “The cost of living is forcing hard choices, between food, rent and medicine. And for many, there’s simply no buffer left.”
Trade Tensions with the U.S. Hitting Canadian Households Hard
Eighty-six percent of Canadians say U.S. tariffs are driving up prices on everyday goods, and 85% say essential items like groceries are now more expensive due to ongoing trade disputes. Nearly 4 in 5 say lower-income families are hit hardest.
The impact is being felt widely:
- 63% say they’ve personally experienced financial hardship due to U.S. trade policy
- 58% have noticed regular items becoming harder to find
- Parents, newcomers and food bank users are reporting disproportionate effects
Support Services Make a Difference, But Public Giving Is Declining
The report shows that community-based support systems are making a real impact:
- 4 in 5 individuals who accessed shelters or food banks report improved well-being
- More than half say they now have better access to food
Despite that, donations are declining, with an average 2.7-point drop in charitable giving compared to 2024.
“Our services are working; they’re helping people through the hardest times,” says van Gulik. “But the gap between rising demand and available support is widening. We need Canadians to continue standing with us.”
