UK residents in 2026 are most worried about the cost of living, the NHS, the economy, immigration, crime, housing, and international conflict — with cost‑of‑living pressures consistently dominating public concern. Andy Burnham has a lot of work to do to fix things.
Core worries right now (based on 2026 data)
1. Cost of living
This is the top concern for around 88–90% of adults. Rising food prices, high energy bills, and increased mortgage payments continue to squeeze households. Inflation remains stubborn, partly due to global conflicts pushing up oil prices.
2. NHS pressures
Around 78–80% of people say the NHS is a major issue. Long waiting lists, slow GP access, and A&E delays dominate public frustration.
3. The economy
About 70–74% of adults list the economy as a key worry. Weak GDP growth, high taxes, and stagnant real wages contribute to a sense of national economic decline.
4. Immigration & asylum
Between 54–59% of people cite immigration as a top concern. Net migration remains historically high, and small‑boat crossings continue to shape public debate.
5. Crime
Around 58–61% of adults say crime is a major issue, including concerns about antisocial behaviour and policing capacity.
6. Housing
About 49–54% of people worry about housing affordability, rent increases, and limited supply.
7. International conflict
Concern about global conflict has risen sharply — 63% now list it as a major issue, the highest level since 2022. The Iran conflict has pushed up oil prices and revived inflation fears.
8. Climate change & environment
Around 53–54% of adults list environmental issues as important.
9. Employment
Concern about jobs has grown, with 54% now listing employment as a key issue — the highest since tracking began in 2022.
10. Misinformation & AI
A striking 78% worry about misinformation affecting future elections, and many are uneasy about AI’s risks (cybercrime, data misuse, fake news).
Summary
If you boil it down, UK residents are most worried about making ends meet, getting healthcare, and the country’s economic direction, with immigration, crime, housing, and global instability close behind.
If you want, I can break this down by age group, region, or political affiliation, or compare how concerns have changed since 2020.