New research: Most Canadians feel financially stuck

Long version

A new national study reveals a striking divide in how Canadians experience their financial lives, and the difference has surprisingly little to do with how much money they earn.

Gallup and Edward Jones surveyed 2,117 Canadian adults in March and April 2026 and found that only 12% of Canadians are financially fulfilled, meaning their finances genuinely support the life they want. Meanwhile, 41% are financially stressed and 47% live in a conflicted middle, where progress feels possible, but individuals feel less confident and have a harder time navigating financial challenges and setbacks.

"Financial fulfillment is less about a number and more about what money makes possible," said Scott Sullivan, Edward Jones Canada Business Segment Leader. "This research confirms what we see every day in conversations with Canadians: Confidence, clarity and a plan aligned with your values matter just as much as your account balance."

When Canadians were asked to describe financial fulfillment in their own words, their answers centred not on wealth but on peace and possibility. "Not having to worry about money," said one respondent. "Having the freedom to chase passions," said another. A third put it this way: "Knowing my needs are met, my future secure, and I can give generously without worry."

For many Canadians, that security remains out of reach. In the first quarter of 2026, 38% reported feeling financial stress often or always in the past 30 days. One in four say they're making significant financial sacrifices to reduce expenses, and among those already financially stressed, that figure rises to nearly four in 10.

Younger Canadians carry a disproportionate burden. Gen Z and Millennials report finances are a source of stress for 45–47%, compared with 19% for Baby Boomers. Only 20% of Gen Z adults say they could absorb a $10,000 unexpected expense “very well” or “completely,” and half of all Canadians say they can pay "very little" or "not at all" toward an unplanned cost of that size.

Yet the research also points to a clear path forward, and it starts with a plan.

Among the financially fulfilled, 72% are thriving in their overall life evaluation, compared with just 16% of those who classified as financially stressed. Fulfilled Canadians are more than five times as likely than financially stressed Canadians to rate their mental health as very good or excellent, and nearly four times as likely to say the same about their physical health. The difference shows up in their communities and relationships too.

What separates them isn't income alone — it's also behavior. Even after controlling for age, net worth and household income, fulfilled Canadians are more likely to maintain emergency savings, plan for major life events and hold a retirement plan. And they're far more likely to work with a financial advisor: 74% of financially fulfilled Canadians did so in the past year, compared with 26% of financially stressed Canadians. In a controlled analysis accounting for age, net worth and household income, working with a financial advisor showed the strongest positive association with fulfillment of any guidance source tested — stronger than internet research, family advice, news, social media or artificial intelligence tools.

"Financial fulfillment is achievable, and you don't have to get there on your own," said [LOCAL ADVISOR NAME], financial advisor with Edward Jones in [CITY]. "Whether you're just starting out or navigating a major life transition, a conversation about where you are and where you want to go is often the most important first step."

To start that conversation with [LOCAL ADVISOR NAME], contact [PHONE/EMAIL] or visit [WEBSITE].

Gallup and Edward Jones conducted the "Money and Meaning" study by surveying 2,117 Canadian adults age 21 and older from March 25 to April 3, 2026. Results are weighted to be nationally representative.

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by (FA's NAME), your Edward Jones financial advisor at (branch address or phone #).

Edward Jones, Member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund 

Number of words: 588

Radio version

30-second version

A new Gallup and Edward Jones study finds only 12% of Canadians are financially fulfilled, while 41% are living in a state of financial stress. Research shows fulfillment isn't just about income. It's about confidence, a plan and alignment with what matters most. Canadians who work with a financial advisor are significantly more likely to get there.

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by (FA's NAME), your Edward Jones financial advisor at (branch address or phone #).

Edward Jones, Member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund

Number of words: 80

15-second version

New Edward Jones and Gallup research finds only 12% of Canadians are financially fulfilled, but working with a financial advisor increases likelihood of getting there.

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by (FA's NAME), your Edward Jones financial advisor at (branch address or phone #).

Edward Jones, Member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund

Number of words: 48