January 12, 2026
RED FM News Desk
Albertans are bracing for significant financial challenges in 2026, according to a new consumer debt report released Monday.
The quarterly MNP Consumer Debt Index, conducted by Ipsos, found that three in four Albertans believe the cost of living will continue to rise, forcing households to stretch their budgets even further in the year ahead.
“For many Albertans, the outlook for 2026 points to continued pressure on daily expenses, as inflation, interest rates and broader economic uncertainty weigh on household finances,” said Lindsay Burchill, a licensed insolvency trustee with Alberta-based MNP, in a news release.
The report also shows that two in three Albertans expect the economy to slow, while 64 per cent anticipate increased pressure from interest rates and inflation in 2026. Around 60 per cent believe transportation and health-care costs will climb as well.
Despite the pessimistic outlook, the report highlights some encouraging trends. More Albertans are taking steps to manage their finances, with about 52 per cent reporting they have saved roughly six months’ worth of emergency funds.
“Even with widespread pessimism about 2026, there are some signs of optimism, with certain households starting the year in a slightly stronger cash-flow position,” Burchill said.
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